VARIABLE-DENSITY COMPOSITE ARTICLES, PREFORMS AND METHODS

摘要

A metal matrix composite article that includes at least first and second regions, first and second reinforcement materials, a metal matrix composite material occupying the second region of the body and comprising a metal matrix material and the second reinforcement component, a preform positioned in the first region of the body and infiltrated by at least the metal matrix material of the metal matrix composite material. The article further includes a transition region located proximate an outer surface of the preform that includes a distribution of the second reinforcement component comprising a density increasing according to a second gradient in a direction toward the outer surface of the preform.

主权项

1. A metal matrix composite article, comprising:
a cast, reinforced body, the body comprising a first region and a second region, the first region having more reinforcement than the second region; a first reinforcement component; a second reinforcement component; a metal matrix composite material occupying the second region of the body and comprising a metal matrix material and the second reinforcement component; a preform positioned in the first region of the body and infiltrated by at least the metal matrix material of the metal matrix composite material, the preform comprising
a first end,a second end,an outer surface,the first reinforcement component, the first reinforcement component comprising a density increasing between the first end of the preform and the second end of the preform according to a first gradient, anda porous structure configured to allow passage of the metal matrix material into the preform and to block or reduce passage of the first reinforcement component into the preform; and a transition region of the body located proximate the outer surface of the preform, the transition region comprising a distribution of the second reinforcement component adjacent to the outer surface of the preform, the distribution of the second reinforcement component comprising a density increasing according to a second gradient in a direction toward the outer surface of the preform.