OX-Ti
Titanium Anodizing

OX-Ti is an anodizing surface treatment of titanium alloys that creates a thin film of compact titanium oxide. The treatment is performed by immersion using an electrolytic process.

Depending on the treatment parameters, the anodizing process self-generates a wide array of colours. The colour is not due to the addition of pigments, but rather the titanium oxide layer formed on the surface assumes a colour due to the nature of the refracted light. Different titanium oxide thicknesses produce different colours.

Since the layer is composed of titanium oxide, it has properties of high durability and excellent chemical resistance. This makes it suitable for coating components for the medical and implants sector.

The treatment is used in the motorsport sector as an anti-galling coating and a decorative finish.

Threaded fasteners in OX-Ti anodized titanium, various colours

VARIOUS COLOUR OPTIONS

The surface can be produced in various bright scratch-resistant colours due to self-colouration of the titanium oxide film without the use of pigments or inks. The colours can be used as visual codes for rapid identification components of similar appearance.

BIOCOMPATIBLE

Thanks to the high chemical resistance, biocompatibility of the film, and absence of pigments, this process can be used also on medical components.

ANTI-GALLING

The titanium oxide film that forms during the treatment makes it possible to eliminate the galling problem typical of titanium alloys.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Composition and applicable standards

Composition
The OX-Ti treatment transforms the titanium alloy surface into a compact layer of titanium oxide. The coating composition is thus strongly dependent on the starting alloy.
The film colour is obtained by self-colouration. No pigments or inks are used in the process.
RoHS compliance
RoHS compliant. No restricted substances present in amounts greater than the maximum tolerated concentrations.
REACH compliance
REACH compliant. No SVHCs present in amounts higher than 0.1% by weight.

Anodizable alloys

Titanium alloys
All commonly used titanium alloys

Coating thicknesses and colours obtainable

Coating thickness
Typical thickness, according to the required colour
< 1µm
Colours obtainable
fuchsiaFuchsia
violetViolet
dark blueDark blue
light blueLight blue
light yellowLight yellow
golden yellowGolden yellow
greyGrey

Tribological properties

Wear resistance
High colour durability thanks to the resistance of the titanium oxide film to light wear and scratching.

Chemical properties

Chemical resistance
Excellent chemical resistance, typical of titanium alloys.
Chemical compatibility
Chemical compatibility values. The actual environmental resistance must anyway be tested in the field.
Hydrocarbons (e.g. petrol, diesel, mineral oil, toluene)
Alcohol, ketones (e.g. ethanol, methanol, acetone)
Neutral saline solutions (e.g. sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, seawater)
Reducing acids and halogens (e.g. sulphuric acid, hydrochloric acid, oxalic acid)
Acid oxidizing agents (e.g. nitric acid)
Dilute bases (e.g. dilute sodium hydroxide)
Base oxidizing agents (e.g. sodium hypochlorite)
Concentrated bases (e.g. concentrated sodium hydroxide)