Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) vs Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Grade 5 ELI): Same alloy — ELI version has tighter interstitial limits for medical use
Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) vs Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Grade 5 ELI)
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5)
3.7164
The most widely used titanium alloy — accounts for ~50% of all titanium production. Alpha-beta alloy with exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. Used for jet engine components, airframe structures, medical implants (hip/knee), fasteners, and racing components. Biocompatible.
Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Grade 5 ELI)
3.7165
Extra Low Interstitial version of Ti-6Al-4V — the standard titanium for surgical implants. Reduced O, N, C, Fe for improved ductility, fracture toughness, and biocompatibility. Used for hip and knee implants, bone screws, dental implants, spinal fusion devices, and cardiovascular stents. Also called Grade 23.
| Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) | Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Grade 5 ELI) | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | 3.7164 | 3.7165 |
| Category | Titanium | Titanium |
| Standard | ASTM B265 | ASTM F136 |
Chemical composition (wt%)
| Element | Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) | Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Grade 5 ELI) | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | 0–0.08% | 0–0.08% | OK |
| V | 3.5–4.5% | 3.5–4.5% | OK |
| Al | 5.5–6.75% | 5.5–6.5% | OK |
| Ti | — | — | — |
Mechanical properties
| Property | Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) | Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Grade 5 ELI) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| tensile_strength | ≥ 895 | ≥ 860 | MPa |
| yield_strength | ≥ 828 | ≥ 795 | MPa |
| elongation | ≥ 10 | ≥ 10 | % |
Compatibility Assessment
ELI has lower O (0.13 vs 0.20%), Fe (0.25 vs 0.40%), and other interstitials. This gives ~10% better ductility and fracture toughness at slightly lower strength. ELI is mandatory for surgical implants (ASTM F136); standard Grade 5 for aerospace (ASTM B265).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) the same as Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Grade 5 ELI)?
Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) and Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Grade 5 ELI) have a 92% composition overlap. Same alloy — ELI version has tighter interstitial limits for medical use
Can I replace Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) with Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Grade 5 ELI)?
In many cases, yes. The compositions overlap significantly (92%). However, always verify mechanical property requirements and heat treatment compatibility for your specific application.
What is the difference between Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) and Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Grade 5 ELI)?
The main differences are in the following elements: overall alloying content. Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5) is a Titanium grade, while Ti-6Al-4V ELI (Grade 5 ELI) is a Titanium grade.
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.