A FLOTATION PROCESS FOR THE FORMATION OF METAL MATRIX COMPOSITE BODIES

摘要

The present invention relates to a novel method for forming metal matri x composite bodies. Particularly, a permeable mass of filler material is forme d into a preform. The preform material can then be placed onto the surface of or into a matrix metal alloy, whereupon the matrix metal alloy spontaneously infiltrates the preform. After substantial complete infiltration of the preform, the preform begins to at least partially sink into the matrix metal alloy supply. The matrix metal Which has infiltrated the preform is then allowed to cool, thus forming a metal matrix composite body.