Titanium Ore: Sourcing, Types, and Buyer's Guide for 2025
Titanium Ore is a critical raw material in industries ranging from aerospace to medical devices. As demand grows, buyers must understand how to source high-quality ore, evaluate suppliers, and navigate market trends. This guide provides actionable insights for 2025 procurement strategies.
How to Find Reliable Titanium Ore from China in 2025
China dominates global titanium ore production, but verifying supplier credibility is essential. Follow these steps:
- Check Alibaba Gold Supplier status and transaction history
- Request third-party assay reports (TiO2 content ≥90% preferred)
- Verify export licenses and compliance with China GB/T 3620.1-2016 standards
Top-producing regions like Panzhihua account for 30% of China's output. Consider attending the China International Titanium Forum to connect with vetted suppliers.
What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Titanium Ore from China
Key considerations when importing:
| Factor | Detail |
|---|---|
| Pricing | $180-$250/ton for ilmenite (2024 benchmark) |
| Logistics | 40HQ container fits 27-28 tons bulk shipment |
| Payment | 30% deposit, 70% against BL copy is standard |
Tip: Use Incoterms 2020 (CIF preferred for first-time buyers) to clarify responsibilities.
Types of Titanium Ore
Three primary commercial varieties exist:
- Ilmenite (FeTiO3) - 45-65% TiO2, most abundant
- Rutile - 95% TiO2, premium pricing
- Leucoxene - Upgraded ilmenite with 70-90% TiO2
Recent data shows ilmenite accounts for 92% of global feedstock due to cost efficiency in chloride process manufacturing.
Functions and Features of Titanium Ore
The ore's value derives from its:
- Exceptional strength-to-weight ratio (45% lighter than steel)
- Corrosion resistance (withstands seawater indefinitely)
- Biocompatibility (ideal for medical implants)
Major producers like Tronox and Iluka Resources typically guarantee:
- Particle size: 80% passing 200 mesh
- Moisture content <1.5%
- Radiation levels <1.0 Bq/g
Scenarios of Titanium Ore
Key industrial applications:
Aerospace: Boeing 787 uses 15 tons titanium per aircraft
Medical: 100,000+ hip replacements annually use Ti-6Al-4V alloy
Chemical: Chloride process consumes 60% of global production
How to Choose Titanium Ore
Selection criteria based on end-use:
| Application | Recommended Grade |
|---|---|
| Pigment production | Ilmenite (TiO2 >58%) |
| Aerospace alloys | Rutile (TiO2 >95%) |
| Welding rods | Leucoxene (TiO2 70-85%) |
Always request elemental analysis reports - particularly for Cr2O3 and V2O5 impurities that affect alloy performance.
Titanium Ore Q & A
Q: What's the minimum order quantity for titanium ore imports?
A: Chinese suppliers typically require 20-ton container loads, though some accept 5-ton trial orders.
Q: How does rutile pricing compare to ilmenite?
A: Rutile commands 3-4x premium due to higher TiO2 content and lower processing costs.
Q: Which countries have titanium ore export restrictions?
A: Vietnam (quota system) and India (export taxes) regulate shipments. China currently has no restrictions.
Q: What's the lead time for shipments from China?
A: 30-45 days for production + 35 days shipping to US/EU ports.
Q: Can I visit supplier facilities pre-purchase?
A> Reputable suppliers welcome inspections - 72% of Alibaba Gold Suppliers offer plant tours.
