Apparatuses and methods for fabricating metal matrix composite structures
US10279423B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 17, 2016 |
| Grant date | May 7, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 24, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K2103/52
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method for forming a metal matrix composite (MMC) structure includes forming an assembly including at least two blocks of a primary phase material sharing an interface at which a secondary phase material is disposed. The assembly has a length, a width, and a thickness. The method also includes clamping the assembly to at least one of urge the at least two blocks toward each other or maintain the at least two blocks at a predetermined position. Also, the method includes passing a rotating friction-stir pin along the interface from the front edge to the rear edge. The friction-stir pin has a mixing length extending at least the width of the assembly, and passing the friction-stir pin along the length of the assembly disperses the secondary phase material into the primary phase material and welds the at least two blocks together.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.