Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5): The Workhorse Titanium Alloy
ASTM B265/B348 / AMS 4911 · Published: 2026-06-01 · Updated: 2026-06-02
Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) accounts for over 50% of global titanium usage—an alpha-beta alloy with 6% aluminum stabilizing the alpha phase and 4% vanadium stabilizing the beta phase. It provides an unmatched strength-to-weight ratio in the annealed...
Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) accounts for over 50% of global titanium usage—an alpha-beta alloy with 6% aluminum stabilizing the alpha phase and 4% vanadium stabilizing the beta phase. It provides an unmatched strength-to-weight ratio in the annealed condition: 880 MPa yield at 4.43 g/cm³—giving it a specific strength 50% higher than 7075-T6 aluminum and 300% higher than 316L stainless. Excellent corrosion resistance in seawater, chlorides, and oxidizing acids due to the self-healing TiO2 passive film. Biocompatible—the standard material for orthopedic and dental implants. Service temperature range: -253°C (cryogenic) to 350°C (long-term), 400°C short-term. Above 350°C, the oxide film thickens and oxygen embrittlement of the surface occurs. Weldable with matching filler under inert gas shielding (GTAW). Poor tribological properties (galling, fretting)—surface treatments (anodizing, nitriding) are essential for wear applications.
Quick Facts
| Category | Titanium Alloy |
| Standard | ASTM B265/B348 / AMS 4911 |
| Density | 4.43 g/cm³ |
| Yield Strength | 880 MPa (128 ksi) annealed |
| Tensile Strength | 950 MPa (138 ksi) annealed |
Global Equivalents & Cross-Reference
| Alternative Standard / Grade | Action |
|---|---|
| EN 3.7165 | Compare |
| BT6 | Compare |
| JIS TAP6400 | Compare |
| TC4 | Compare |
| ISO Ti-6Al-4V | Compare |
Related Comparisons
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Calculate the weight based on this material's density: 4.43 g/cm³
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Ti-6Al-4V be machined with conventional tooling?
Titanium's low thermal conductivity (7 W/m·K vs steel's 50 W/m·K) concentrates heat at the tool tip, causing rapid tool wear. Use sharp carbide tooling (C2 grade), low cutting speeds (30-60 m/min for turning vs 150+ for steel), high feed rates, and copious coolant directed at the cutting zone. Avoid dwelling—keep the tool moving through the cut. The 'titanium machining rule': maintain 10× the coolant flow rate and 1/3 the cutting speed used for steel.
References & International Standards
- ASTM International. Standard Specifications for Steel & Metal Alloys. astm.org
- International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Metallic Materials — Cross-Reference Database. iso.org
- American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Steel Grade Designations & Equivalents. steel.org
- European Committee for Standardization (CEN). EN Steel Standards & Numbering System. cencenelec.eu