Differential expansion can cause stresses which on thermal cycling may cause fracture of the lining, particularly in large equipment. As the term implies, a thin titanium lining is fabricated to the required configuration and is then positioned in the intended equipment. Flanges are generally used to prevent the lining from moving. Generally, a gasket material is used between mating flanges. Loose linings are the least costly method and are used in small to medium-sized equipment which is not subject to pressure or vacuum.
Process piping and smoke stacks are typical examples where loose linings have been used.
If equipment to be lined is to be subjected to internal pressures, the lining must be installed to prevent collapse in the event of accidental loss of pressure. Although not used extensively, a vanadium interlayer or silver braze interlayer can be used to weld titanium to carbon steel. Another lining method for consideration involves resistance welding titanium to a substrate. This method has been used extensively in attaching titanium to flue gas desulfurization stacks and is more economical than explosive bonding. The steel substrate acts as the strength member for attaching the lining to a steel substructure by welding.