Description
Overview of TB13 Titanium Alloy for Eyewires
TB13 is a medium-strength, near-beta titanium alloy renowned for its exceptional cold formability. This property makes it ideally suited for manufacturing hiah-end, durable, and complex eyewires-the part of the frame that holds the lenses.
Its nominal composition is Ti-4A1-22V, engineered to provide an optimal balance of strength, weight, and, most importantly, the ability to be bent, shaped, and cold-worked without cracking.
Chemical Composition(wt,-%)
| Grade | Al | V | Zr | Mo | Si | Fe |
| TB13 | 3.0~4.5 | 20.0~23 | – | – | – | ≤0.20 |
| Grade | C | O | N | H | Ti | |
| TB13 | ≤0.10 | ≤0.20 | ≤0.05 | ≤0.015 | Bal | – |
Mechanical Properties
| Grade | Dia(mm) | Delivery Status | Tensile Strength
Rm , (MPa) |
Proof Strength
Rp0.2, (MPa) |
| TB13 | 0.7~8.0 | ST | ≥700 | ≥650 |
| Grade | Elongation after Fracture
A, % |
Reduction of Area
Z, % |
Shear Strength
τ, MPa |
|
| TB13 | ≥15 | ≥55 | – | – |
Recommended Heat Treatment
| Grade | Heat Treatment Type | Heat Treatment Schedule |
| TB13 | Solution Treatment | 750°C ~ 830°C, hold for 10 min ~ 60 min, water cool or air cool |
Advantages of TB13 for Eyewires
1. Superior Cold Formability & Spring back Control
Advantage: This is TB13’s most critical benefit. t can be bent into intricate and stylish eyewire shapes at room temperature without requiring freguent annealing. lt exhibits excellent ‘springback” characteristics, meaning it holds its shape firmly after the lens is inserted, ensuring the lens remains securely in place.
2.High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
Advantage: TB13 is significantly stronger than pure titanium (Grade 2/TA2) and most copper-nickel alloys used in eyewires, while remaining very light.
3.Excellent Corrosion Resistance and Skin Compatibility
Advantage: Like all titanium alloys, TB13 is highly resistant to corrosion from sweat, skin oils, and humidity. lt is hypoallergenic and biocompatible.
4. Superior Surface Finish
Advantage: The fine grain structure of TB13 allows it to take on a high-quality, mirror-like polish.
It also anodizes beautifully, allowing for a wide range of vibrant and durable colors.
5.Good Weldability
Advantage: TB13 can be reliably welded, which is essential for creating seamless eyewires or forintricate bridge and hinge attachments
Applications in Spectacle Frames (Eyewire-Centric)
1. Premium & Luxury Spectacle Frames: lts properties justify its use in high-end brands where design complexity, durability, and a premium feel are paramount.
2. Thin & Ultra-Lightweight Frames: lts strength allows for the extrusion of very fine wires to create almost “invisible” eyewires that are surprisingly robust.
3. Sports & Performance Eyewear: The combination of strength, low weight, and resistance to deformation from impact or stress is ideal for sports goggles and frames.
4. Complex Geometric Designs: For eyewires with sharp angles, tight radio, or unique architectural shapes,TB13’s cold formability is essential.
5. Semi-Rimless (Montal) Frames: The eyewire in these designs requires high strength and precise springback to securely hold the lens with minimal contact points.
