Which of the following is a property of titanium that affects its drilling technique?

Titanium has unique thermal properties that significantly impact its drilling technique, especially its tendency to melt and re-harden when overheated. When drilling titanium, the generation of heat is a critical factor. If the drill bit and the material become too hot during the drilling process, the titanium can soften and melt at localized areas, which may lead to problems such as tool wear, drill bit binding, and the creation of an undesirable surface finish. As the material cools, it can re-harden, leading to hardening effects in the previously machined areas. This characteristic means that careful control of cutting speeds, feed rates, and cooling methods (such as using cutting fluids) is essential to maintain optimal drilling conditions and prevent thermal damage. Understanding this property aids mechanics in choosing the correct tooling and techniques to effectively drill titanium without compromising the integrity of the material or the tools used.