When shopping for machine embroidery needles we are faced with so many choices that it’s often hard to choose the one that best suits our needs. We not only have to determine the size and point we need, but we also have various compositions to deal with. Should we buy regular needles or “Titanium” needles?
So what exactly is a Titanium needle? It’s quite simple really. Titanium needles are easily identified by their distinct gold color. At the core of Titanium needles is the standard nickel or chromium-plated needle just like those you’ve been using for years. The difference lies only on the surface. Titanium needles are coated with a very thin layer of Titanium Nitride, which is actually a form of ceramic. This coating, while only a few microns thick, is extremely hard and gives the Titanium needle the edge when it comes to heat build up and wear.
Ceramic’s ability to resist heat makes it ideal in this application. Less heat build up on your needle means fewer thread breaks. This is particularly important with certain high abrasion fabrics such as vinyl or heavy denim. The hardness of the ceramic coating helps to reduce wear caused by friction and abrasion. Your needle point, while not any sharper, will stay sharp longer than with regular nickel or chromium-plated needles.
One of the myths revolving around Titanium needles is that they won’t break as easily as regular needles. The truth is, Titanium needles will break just as easily as regular needles. Given the fact they are actually the same needle at the core that stands to reason. The ultra thin coating of Titanium Nitride reduces heat and friction, but it does not make the needle stronger. Dull needles are a major cause of breakage. Since Titanium needles stay sharper longer, you may experience less frequent breaks. Changing them often helps alleviate the problem too.
There is no application that requires Titanium needles, so whether or not you choose to pay a premium price for them is up to you. Standard nickel or chromium-plated needles are every bit as good, they just won’t last as long.
Since the cost of Titanium needles is substantially higher than nickel or chromium-plated needles, purchasing regular needles may actually prove to be less costly in the long run. You’ll need to change your needles more often, but could possibly save money in the process. The method you use for determining when it’s time to replace your needle(s) will play a major role in the total amount you spend.
Choose which ever needle works best for you. Either will get the job done.
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