Key Advantages of Titanium Plates
- Exceptional Corrosion Resistance: The primary advantage, as detailed above.
- Long Service Life: In the correct application, a titanium plate heat exchanger can last for decades, providing a excellent return on investment despite the higher initial cost.
- High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: While not a primary driver for stationary equipment, it can be beneficial in offshore or aerospace applications.
- Compatibility with High-Temperature Waters and Steam: Performs well in these services without corroding.
Choose titanium plates when:
- The fluid is seawater, brackish water, or has a high chloride content.
- The fluid is chlorinated water (e.g., from a city supply or cooling tower).
- The process involves oxidizing acids or chemicals that attack stainless steel.
- The operating temperature with chlorides present is high enough to cause chloride stress corrosion cracking in stainless steel.
- The cost of unexpected failure or downtime far outweighs the higher initial investment in titanium.