ERTi-2 TIG / GTAW filler metal is used as a starting point for commercially pure titanium welding where the procedure, base metal grade, and service conditions support that choice. It is not a substitute for WPS review or manufacturer data. Before you load a rod, confirm what the base material actually is, what the code allows, and whether the service environment calls for a different titanium filler.
This draft is focused on selection and compatibility checks. The practical issue is not just whether the rod is labeled ERTi-2, but whether it matches the job after you verify the base metal, joint condition, shielding plan, and cleanliness standard.
Key Takeaways
- Use ERTi-2 only after confirming the base metal grade and WPS.
- Commercially pure titanium applications need tight control of contamination, shielding, and heat input.
- Do not assume a filler grade is acceptable for every CP titanium repair or fabrication job.
- Manufacturer data sheet review is still required before order release or weld start.
- If a detail is not confirmed, mark it as Unknown (Verify) and stop until it is checked.
What the ERTi-2 designation means for the shop
The provided filler metal record identifies this item as ERTi-2 for TIG / GTAW use, with an AWS A5.16 reference and a base material description of commercially pure titanium Grade 2. That gives you a useful starting point, but not final approval for any job.
For titanium work, the filler selection normally depends on the exact base metal, the joint design, the service environment, and the governing procedure. If any of those inputs are missing, treat compatibility as Unknown (Verify) until the WPS, code requirements, or manufacturer literature confirms the match.
Selection checks before you order rod
Use the following checks before releasing ERTi-2 to the floor:
- Check the base metal identification. Verify the heat number, mill cert, or purchase record. If the base metal is only described as CP titanium, stop and confirm the grade. If the grade is not established, compatibility remains Unknown (Verify).
- Inspect the WPS. Confirm the procedure calls for ERTi-2 or equivalent filler for the exact joint and service condition.
- Verify code or customer requirements. Some jobs control filler selection by specification, qualification record, or purchaser note. Do not rely on generic material family matching.
- Inspect the joint condition. Titanium requires clean, oxide-free, contamination-free surfaces. Oil, marker residue, abrasive dust, and moisture can become weld defects.
- Verify shielding strategy. Confirm primary shielding, trailing coverage if required, purge requirements if applicable, and gas quality before welding starts.
Troubleshooting and support checks
If the job is already in motion and the welds are not meeting expectations, work through the issue in a controlled order.
1) If the arc starts poorly or the bead looks unstable
- Inspect the tungsten condition, cup setup, and gas delivery.
- Check for drafts, loose hoses, or inadequate coverage.
- Verify that the filler rod is dry, clean, and not contaminated by shop handling.
2) If the weld surface discolors excessively
- Inspect the shield coverage at the weld pool and trailing edge.
- Check travel speed and heat input against the WPS.
- Verify that the purge and torch shielding remain in place until the joint cools enough for the procedure requirements.
3) If the filler does not appear to match the job requirement
- Inspect the material traceability documents.
- Check whether the base metal is truly Grade 2 CP titanium or another titanium grade.
- Verify with the manufacturer data sheet and the approved procedure before continuing.
WSP lookup and filler metal finder
Use the filler metal record as a starting point for selection review:
ERTi-2 TIG / GTAW Filler Metal
Use the finder page when you need to cross-check the filler family against other listed options and confirm whether the job should stay with ERTi-2 or move to another approved material:
These pages support selection. They do not replace the WPS, code review, or manufacturer data sheet.
Practical shop handling points
Titanium filler handling is a contamination control task. Keep the rod package closed until needed. Store rods so they are not exposed to dirt, moisture, grinding debris, or mixed-metal contact. If a rod has dropped to an unclean floor or has visible contamination, treat it as Unknown (Verify) until it is cleaned or replaced according to shop practice and procedure requirements.
During setup, confirm the following before striking an arc:
- Base metal identity is confirmed.
- Filler designation is confirmed.
- Gas supply is verified and suitable for the procedure.
- Joint surfaces are clean and ready.
- Operator knows the cooling and shielding requirements.
Safety notes
Titanium welding is sensitive to contamination and shielding failure. Do not improvise filler choice on critical work. Do not assume CP titanium grades are interchangeable. Do not weld over questionable surface contamination. If the procedure, service condition, or material grade is unclear, stop and verify before welding.
Use standard welding PPE, keep the work area clean, and maintain gas safety and cylinder handling practices. If a weld shows unusual discoloration, cracking, or surface contamination, quarantine the part for review rather than passing it to inspection without a documented decision.
FAQ
Is ERTi-2 always correct for commercially pure titanium?
No. It is a starting point for CP titanium applications, but final selection depends on the WPS, the exact base metal grade, and service requirements. If any of those are unconfirmed, the compatibility is Unknown (Verify).
Can I use ERTi-2 if the base metal is only labeled titanium?
Not without more information. You need the actual grade, traceability, or approved procedure. “Titanium” alone is not enough to confirm filler compatibility.
Do I need to check the manufacturer data sheet if the listing already says ERTi-2?
Yes. The listing is a reference point, not final approval. Verify the data sheet, the WPS, and any customer or code requirements before welding or purchasing.
What should I do if the weld color looks off?
Stop and inspect shielding, purge, cleanliness, and heat input. Discoloration on titanium often points to coverage or contamination issues. Verify the procedure before continuing.
Sources Checked
- ERTi-2 TIG / GTAW Filler Metal: https://www.weldsupportparts.com/filler-metal-tig-erti-2.html
- WSP Filler Metal Finder: https://www.weldsupportparts.com/filler-metal-finder.html
- Provided filler metal summary for ERTi-2 TIG / GTAW filler metal
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