Titanium alloys, known for their high strength, exceptional corrosion resistance, and superior heat resistance, are increasingly being recognized for their critical role in various fields, especially in maritime engineering. Countries around the globe are advancing research and development on titanium alloys, leveraging their potential in practical maritime applications.

1. Application in Ship Structure

Despite the high yield strength of titanium and its alloys, their application in general surface ship structures is limited due to the complexities in welding that require inert gas protection. However, their use is prevalent in submarines, submersibles, and other specialized vessels where high yield strength, low density, and corrosion resistance are crucial. Notably, China's development of the Ti80 alloy in the 1980s marked a significant advancement, offering high strength, toughness, and weldability for manufacturing deep submersible and submarine pressure-resistant shells.

2. Used for Ship Coolers

The superiority of titanium alloys in seawater corrosion resistance makes them ideal for ship coolers, particularly in nuclear submarines and other high-reliability applications. The use of industrial pure titanium in the United States, resistant to stress corrosion in natural and chlorinated waters, highlights the material's significance. Similarly, China's development of Ti31 titanium alloys for high-temperature seawater environments showcases advancements in marine technology.

3. For Ship Pipelines

The harsh conditions of direct seawater contact and bilge locations make corrosion a significant issue for ship pipelines. Innovations like China's TA5α titanium alloy and the Ti75 titanium alloy developed in the 1980s have led to materials with high strength, excellent stress corrosion resistance, and improved workability, marking significant advancements in marine titanium alloys.

4. For Ship Propellers

The high strength, lightweight properties, and resistance to cavitation erosion and fatigue make titanium alloys ideal for manufacturing ship propellers. The application of ZTi6Al4V alloy in China to hydrofoil propellers and the development of high-strength cast titanium alloys for hydrofoil speedboat propellers underscore the material's valuable attributes in enhancing maritime operations.