How to Choose a Production Process for Titanium Castings
Titanium casting process selection is a drawing-and-duty decision. Geometry, alloy, melt practice, machining and acceptance requirements must be reviewed together before a supplier can quote a credible route.
Start with function and environment
State corrosion medium, temperature, pressure or load duty and requested alloy/standard. ASTM B367 covers titanium and titanium alloy castings for general corrosion-resistant and industrial applications and is a useful reference when applicable.
Use geometry to guide the review
| Characteristic | Information needed |
|---|---|
| Internal geometry | Section views, cores and inaccessible areas |
| Wall transitions | Minimum wall and heavy junctions |
| Machined interfaces | Datums, allowance and surface requirement |
| Critical zones | Acceptance criteria and NDT coverage |
Do not buy a process label
Investment casting may be reviewed for complex detail, while other routes can fit other sizes, tolerances, volumes and cost conditions. A route name does not guarantee soundness, accuracy or delivery. Require the supplier to review pattern, mould, feeding, cleaning, machining and inspection against the approved drawing.
Define tolerances and acceptance
ISO 8062-4:2023 provides a framework for casting tolerances, machining allowance and draft. ASTM B367 notes purchaser-defined chemical, analysis and visual acceptance requirements. Your RFQ should identify certificates, dimensional report, NDT, repair-weld policy, traceability and packing.
References
RFQ information
- Approved drawing and revision
- Service conditions and quantity
- Material or performance requirement
- Critical dimensions and inspection scope
Engineering boundary
Final material, geometry, production route and inspection scope must be agreed against the purchaser-approved drawing and actual duty. This guide is not a substitute for equipment design review.