As an expert in the field of materials science, I can provide you with an in-depth answer regarding the temperature at which titanium turns red. Titanium, a metal known for its strength and light weight, is also known for its ability to change color when heated. This color change is due to a phenomenon known as thermochromism, where certain materials exhibit color changes with temperature variations.
The color change in titanium is not a simple linear relationship with temperature. It's a complex process influenced by several factors including the purity of the titanium, the presence of impurities or alloying elements, and the specific conditions under which the metal is heated. Generally, titanium starts to exhibit a reddish hue at temperatures above 900°F (482.2°C). However, the exact temperature at which titanium turns red can vary.
The information you provided from High Times seems to refer to a specific application, possibly related to the use of titanium in a "dab rig" for vaporizing concentrates. In this context, the temperature is critical for optimal vaporization and to avoid waste. A blood-red glow at 1075°F (581.1°C) and a faint-red glow at 930°F (499.4°C) are indicative of the temperature range for effective dabbing. It's important to note that these temperatures are specific to this application and may not be directly applicable to other uses of titanium.
When titanium is heated to high temperatures, it can undergo phase transformations that affect its color. At lower temperatures, the alpha phase of titanium is stable, but as the temperature increases, the beta phase can form, which can have a different coloration. The transition temperature between these phases is around 885°C (1623°F), and this can be a factor in the color change observed.
It's also worth mentioning that the surface condition of the titanium plays a role in how it appears when heated. A polished surface will reflect light differently than a rough or oxidized surface, which can affect the perceived color. Additionally, the rate of heating and cooling can influence the color change due to the kinetics of phase transformations.
In summary, while titanium does exhibit a color change as it is heated, the exact temperature at which it turns red can vary based on several factors. For applications like dabbing, the temperatures provided can give a general guideline, but for other uses, the color change can occur over a range of temperatures and may not be as precise.
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