Directional solidification of metal matrix composites
US5165463A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 9, 1990 |
| Grant date | Nov 24, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 9, 2010 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB22F2003/1014
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A metal matrix composite is formed by contacting a molten matrix alloy with a permeable mass of filler material or preform in the presence of an infiltrating atmosphere. Under these conditions, the molten matrix alloy will spontaneously infiltrate the permeable mass of filler material or preform under normal atmospheric pressures. Once a desired amount of spontaneous infiltration has been achieved, or during the spontaneous infiltration step, the matrix metal which has infiltrated the permeable mass of filler material or preform is directionally solidified. The directionally solidified metal matrix composite may be heated to a temperature in excess of the liquidus temperature of the matrix metal and quenched. This technique allows the production of spontaneously infiltrated metal matrix composites having improved microstructures and properties.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.