Hastelloy B2 plates and titanium plates are both known for their strength and corrosion resistance. The two metal plates are applied in harsh environments such as chemical plants, marine systems, and industrial processing. However, when making a decision between the two, durability is the major factor.
Every material has its own advantages. Some are more durable against certain chemicals. Others are more resistant to stress. To help you choose, here is a breakdown of both materials and how they perform in harsh conditions.
What is Hastelloy B2?
Hastelloy B2 is a nickel-molybdenum alloy. It contains high nickel content, thus it is resistant to corrosion in harsh reducing environments. It works efficiently where there is hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and acetic acid exposure.
Hastelloy B2 plates are renowned for:
- Having excellent resistance to corrosion
- Excellent pressure strength
- Having resistance to pitting and cracking
- Good formability and weldability
These plates are used in chemical industries, where there are strong acids. They are resistant to degradation and guarantee durability when used with aggressive chemicals.
What is Titanium?
Titanium is an extremely strong, light metal. It is resistant to chlorine and saltwater. Titanium plates are not easily rusted and can be used for decades in marine or chemical environments.
Titanium plates provide:
- Low weight relative to other metals
- High strength-to-weight ratio
- Seawater and chlorine resistance
- Long life with little maintenance
They are used in aerospace, marine, and medical fields. The material is also biocompatible, i.e., it’s safe to use within the human body.
Corrosion Resistance
Hastelloy B2 is good at reducing environments. It is better at handling hydrochloric acid than the majority of metals. It is not good in oxidizing conditions, however. Its corrosion resistance reduces if it is subjected to air or oxidizing substances.
Titanium is more resistant in oxidizing conditions. It develops a thin layer of oxide on the surface that keeps the metal from corroding any further. It can withstand saltwater, bleach, and chlorine-based products.
In brief:
Hastelloy B2: Ideal for neutralizing acids
Titanium: Better for oxidizing and marine environments
Strength and Weight
Titanium is lightweight but strong. Therefore, it is applicable where weight is an issue, such as in aircraft or medical instruments.
Hastelloy B2 plate is heavier but possesses excellent strength and toughness. It serves effectively in high-pressure systems and heavy-duty chemical tanks.
So when you want strength without adding weight, titanium is the option to take. But for pressure vessels or thick-walled tanks, Hastelloy B2 plates are a reliable option.
Temperature Resistance
Both materials can handle high temperatures. Hastelloy B2 plates remain stable in temperatures up to 1000°F (538°C). This makes them suitable for hot acid service.
Titanium also handles heat well but starts to lose strength at very high temperatures. In general, Hastelloy B2 holds up better in extremely hot environments where acids are also present.
Weldability and Fabrication
Hastelloy B2 plate is easy to weld and form. It can be shaped into complex parts without cracking. It also resists grain boundary carbide precipitation, which helps during welding.
Titanium plates need more care when welding. It must be shielded from oxygen during the process. If not, it becomes brittle. Fabrication of titanium requires special tools and techniques.
In terms of ease:
Hastelloy B2 is easier to work with in standard workshops.
Titanium needs a clean and controlled setting.
Cost and Availability
Titanium is more expensive. The processing costs and special fabrication requirements add to the price. It is also less available than Hastelloy B2 in many regions.
Hastelloy B2 is still a premium material, but it’s usually cheaper than titanium. If you’re watching costs, Hastelloy B2 offers good performance without the high price tag.
Applications
Hastelloy B2 Plates are used in:
- Chemical reactors
- Heat exchangers
- Pressure vessels
- Pickling tanks
Titanium Plates are used in:
- Marine equipment
- Desalination plants
- Aerospace parts
- Medical implants
Both materials are trusted in tough conditions. The choice depends on the environment and application needs.
Summary of Differences
| Property |
Hastelloy B2 Plates |
Titanium Plates |
| Main element |
Nickel-Molybdenum |
Titanium |
| Corrosion resistance |
Excellent (reducing) |
Excellent (oxidizing) |
| Strength |
High |
High |
| Weight |
Heavy |
Light |
| Weldability |
Easy |
Needs care |
| Temperature range |
High |
Moderate to high |
| Cost |
Moderate to high |
High |
| Best use |
Harsh acid environments |
Saltwater, chlorine use |
Conclusion
Selecting between Hastelloy B2 plates and titanium plates is based on your project requirements.
Hastelloy B2 is resistant and easier to work with. Titanium is ideal where weight is critical and oxidizing agents are involved.
In both cases, durability is strong. However, in acid-dominant environments, hastelloy B2 plates are more dependable. For sea or chlorine-dominant uses, Titanium plates are the better choice.
While choosing between these, some users also explore nickel plates for general corrosion resistance and thermal stability. They provide a balance of performance and cost in many industrial settings.
Always match the material to the conditions at work. The correct selection offers greater service life and less failure in essential systems.