Beta Titanium Alloys and their use in Various Automotive Spring Applications

For years the automotive industry has shown interest in titanium alloys for many automotive components. One of the limiting factors in titanium's acceptance over the years has been its relatively high price compared to standard materials. However, as the design engineers strive for lighter weight vehicles with improved performance and the materials manufactures develop ways to reduce the cost and streamline processing, titanium has become more attractive. Titanium alloys offer weight savings, strength, corrosion resistance and modulus advantages over steels used for automotive applications. This paper addresses the current and potential uses for titanium alloys in automotive applications, specifically in spring applications. Selected comparisons with conventional alloys are presented. Typical weight and performance advantages as well as a discussion relative to cost will also be made.