Compared with steel, titanium has exceptional strength and weight ratio, and great biological compatibility, which makes it be the preferred material of surgical implants. Other common applications of titanium are aerospace and jewelry, this also related to its lightweight characteristics, high strength and corrosion resistance to a wide range of acids, alkalis, and chemicals. In automotive fields, steel is in strong competition with titanium, steel is preferred when strength is needed in a hard material, in addition, because iron is way more abundant than titanium, with less cost for the raw materials, steel is generally cheaper than titanium. In conclusion, here are some points describe the difference between titanium and steel.
1. Titanium can withstand higher and lower temperatures than steel
2. Titanium is significantly stronger than the most commonly used grades of steel. But, the strongest known alloy steels in their strongest tempers are stronger than the strongest titanium alloys in their hardest temper.
3. In unalloyed condition, with the same strength, titanium is much lighter
4. Titanium is significantly more expensive than steel. Even though some grades for very specific applications may be sold at a price near that of titanium, most steels are very cheap compared to titanium.
5. Titanium is less toxic than steel, experiences lower amounts of thermal expansion than steel and has a higher melting point .
6. Titanium has higher tensile stength per mass but not by volume.
7. Steel is harder than titanium. Titanium deforms more easily than steel.
8. Steel is usually preferable for making strong objects as its volume is more acceptable.