System for manufacturing metal matrix composites
US5934357A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 13, 1996 |
| Grant date | Aug 10, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 13, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC04B2111/00844
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A system for manufacturing metal matrix composites, each including a porous preform infiltrated with molten metal, includes a programmable, automated arrangement for handling preforms for sequential introduction into a die caster of the system. A preform loader includes a reciprocable loading head which receives each preform from an associated stack, and delivers each preform to a horizontally reciprocable carrier of a preform shuttle. The preform shuttle effects indexed movement of each preform along a substantially horizontal path, through a preheating furnace, and into the die caster. Efficient operation of the system is promoted, while undesirable damage to the relatively brittle porous preforms is avoided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.