Directional solidification of metal matrix composites

摘要

A metal matrix composite is formed by contacting a molten matrix alloy (18) with a permeable mass of filler material or preform (16) in the presence of an infiltrating atmosphere. Under these conditions, the molten matrix alloy (18) will spontaneously infiltrate the permeable mass of filler material of preform (16) 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 (16) is directionally solidified. This technique allows the production of spontaneously infiltrated metal matrix composites having improved microstructures and properties.