Background of Titanium
Titanium was first discovered in 1791 in Great Britain by an amature geologist William Gregor.
The process of Titanium is completed in 4 major steps; reduction of ore into a sponge or porous form, melting of the sponge plus a master alloy to form an ingot, then finally converted into a general mill product such bar, plate, sheet or strip.
Titanium's main appeal in the automotive industry is its light weight, high strength and flexibility and unique ability to color. It also is well known for its heat tolerances. Unlike aluminum, Titanium doesn't heat soak quite as fast or hold heat in. This makes it very useful as shielding or deflectors to protect vital components.
What is the coloring process of Titanium?
Titanium reacts to heat as it gains temperature. The coloring comes from a reaction between the Titanium and oxygen as it cools down. When the material is heated to a temperature range, the coloring comes from an oxide layer that forms on the Titanium itself. If undesired, this oxide layer can be simply polished off or abraded to be removed. This is why the coloring is temperamental. We are commonly asked about care and maintenance to our products. Please see the care and maintenance page for your products**
The 3 most common methods of coloring are by the use of a torch or heat source to the desired range for the oxides to color the material. Another method is by electronically conducting the material with a medium substance to transfer the electricity and essentially ground out the metal causing a color. The last method is by natural coloring from the heat in your engine bay or your part.