Abstract:
The present invention relates to a novel process for forming metal matrix composite bodies. Particularly, an infiltration enhancer and/or an infiltration enhancer precursor and/or an infiltrating atmosphere are in communication with a filler material (2) or a preform, at least at some point during the process, which permits molten matrix metal (3) to spontaneously infiltrate the filler material (2) or preform. Such spontaneous infiltration occurs without the requirement for the application of any pressure or vacuum.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to a novel method for forming metal matrix composite bodies. Particularly, a permeable mass of filler material is formed into a preform (3). The preform material (3) can then be placed onto the surface of or into a matrix metal alloy (4), whereupon the matrix metal alloy (4) spontaneously infiltrates the preform (3). After substantial complete infiltration of the preform (3), the preform (3) begins to at least partially sink into the matrix metal alloy supply. The matrix metal (4) which has infiltrated the preform (3) is then allowed to cool, thus forming a metal matrix composite body (6).
Abstract:
The present invention relates to a novel method for forming metal matrix composite bodies. Particularly, a permeable mass of filler material is formed into a preform (1). An infiltration enhancer and/or infiltration enhancer precursor and/or an infiltrating atmosphere are also in communication with the preform (1) at least at some point during the process, which permits molten matrix metal (5) to spontaneously infiltrate the preform (1) when the preform (1) is placed into the molten matrix metal (5). A means (4) for maintaining the preform (1) at least partially below the surface of the molten matrix metal (5) can also be utilized.