Hi everyone,
I need to machine two small parts. One part requires a yield strength of 100,000 PSI and one part requires a yield strength of 200,000 PSI. It's probably best to machine the parts from stock that has a thickness near the part thickness. There are some small internal radii and a small cutter of 1/4" OD will probably be needed for much of the machining and a 3/6" OD cutter for a few other small inside radii. I need a lightweight material preferably similar in weight to Aluminum. I'm guessing that Titanium is the best compromise (perhaps the only one) even though it's a little heavier than aluminum it's still lighter than steel.
I've listed the overall dimensions of the two parts below along with the required yield strengths.
Part #1 overall dimensions (required yield is 100,000 PSI)
2.557=94 Long 3.873=94 wide 2.139=94 thickPart # 2, overall dimensions (required yield is 200,000 PSI)
Part 2.339=94 thick
2.557=94 Long 3.873=94 WideHere is what I found in Machineries Handbook...
5 Al, 2.5 Sn Alpha yield =3D 117 KSI condition is annealed5 Al, 2.5 Sn (low O2) Yield =3D 108 KSI condition is annealed
3 Al, 8 V, 6 Cr, 4 Mo, 4 Zr Condition is Solution + age KSI yield =3D 200 This is a beta alloyI have no real experience with Titanium, they list Alpha, Alpha-Beta, Near-Alpha, & beta alloys but I'm not sure what the real differences are.
For a few parts this small, what is the general difference in cost (materials plus labor) as compared to making the part from aluminum or steel ? Aluminum and non-hardened steel are probably out of the question at both the required yields, but I'm just curious how titanium would compare.
How hard is Titanium to machine ? How does it compare to Aluminum and say 4140 pre-hard ? I'm guessing it must fall somewhere between these two ranges.
I would appreciate any recommendations for a specific grade of material and any tips for machining.
Thanks John