As a rare metallic element, titanium possesses properties that far exceed common perceptions—particularly in power generation equipment, where its low thermal cycle temperature makes it an ideal material for specific applications. There is potential to develop a new type of titanium tube capable of operating at higher temperatures. Compared to existing high-strength low-temperature titanium tubes, this innovation holds greater promise for metal conservation and efficiency improvement. The future goal is to develop a titanium tube alloy that can withstand temperatures up to 650°C. When used in high-pressure turbine rotors, this alloy could reduce weight by 20% compared to conventional base rotors.
However, as operating temperatures increase, new challenges emerge, such as surface oxidation, stability in large-scale metallurgical production, friction corrosion, fire hazards, and intergranular corrosion caused by hot salts. Some of these issues can be mitigated through surface coatings or treatments, and research in this area is currently underway.
Titanium tubes are produced via an automated continuous production line involving cold bending, welding, online heat treatment, diameter straightening, non-destructive testing, and air tightness inspection. With the rapid development of the titanium industry and continuous improvements in welding technology, the production efficiency of titanium tubes is expected to significantly increase, ensuring higher quality stability, consistency, and productivity. The length of the tubes can be customized according to customer requirements.
Conventionally, titanium tubes are manufactured through rolling or drawing processes. These methods require large amounts of rolling oil and drawing oil, which severely contaminates the production site. After rolling or drawing, the grease and stains on the inner and outer surfaces of the tubes must be removed through degreasing and pickling, processes that cause significant environmental pollution.
To safeguard operator health and protect the environment, additional protective equipment and measures must be implemented. This increases capital investment and, consequently, the production cost of the goods. In contrast, the automated production line for titanium tubes enables large-scale manufacturing with stable quality and high efficiency. Beyond minimal consumption of water, electricity, and other energy resources, the production process is largely pollution-free.
