Aluminum 7075 vs Titanium Grade 5: Aerospace Material Showdown

Aluminum 7075 is significantly cheaper and easier to machine, making it the default for non-critical aerospace structures. Titanium Grade 5 wins when maximum strength-to-weight, temperature resistance, or corrosion resistance is non-negotiable.

Side-by-Side Property Comparison

PropertyAluminum 7075-T6Titanium Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V)
Tensile Strength572 MPa (83 ksi)950 MPa (138 ksi)
Yield Strength503 MPa (73 ksi)880 MPa (128 ksi)
Hardness150 HB334 HV
Density2.81 g/cm³4.43 g/cm³
Machinability Rating70/10022/100
Thermal Conductivity130 W/m·K6.7 W/m·K
Melting Point477–635 °C1,604–1,660 °C
Tolerance±0.005 mm±0.01 mm

Key Differences

PropertyAluminum 7075-T6Titanium Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V)Winner
Strength-to-Weight203 kNm/kg214 kNm/kgTitanium
Machinability70/10022/100Aluminum
Cost per Part1x (baseline)5-10xAluminum
Corrosion ResistanceGoodExcellentTitanium
Max Service Temp120°C315°CTitanium
Density2.81 g/cm³4.43 g/cm³Aluminum

Which Material Should You Choose?

Choose Aluminum 7075-T6 when:

  • Cost-sensitive aerospace parts
  • High-volume production
  • Room-temperature applications
  • Non-critical structural components
  • Where machinability matters
View Details Aluminum 7075-T6

Choose Titanium Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V) when:

  • Elevated temperature (>150°C) components
  • Maximum strength-to-weight ratio
  • Corrosive environments
  • Biomedical implants
  • Engine and turbine components
View Details Titanium Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V)

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