ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF ALUMINUM COMPOSITE MATERIALS

Abstract

Metal-matrix composites with tailored properties have the potential of becoming one of the fastest growing family of new materials which can have large impacts on the recent industries. At this time, the best performing and most expensive metal-matrix composites are being considered for the high value added in relatively low-volume military and aerospace applications. However, continued development of composite manufacturing processes and improvements in alloy design, including the possible use of local resources, high performance and low cost still need more effort. Hence, more details about processing of metal-matrix composite and related technical parameters were presented. This included the solidification processing, the interface engineering f and casting techniques. In addition, fundamentals and theoretical basis of penetration of projectile into targets were discussed with some details on target parameters and mechanics of penetration. The aim of the present work was to produce a sound composite of metal matrix and metal reinforcement with uniformly distributed fibers in the matrix, in addition to energy saving through the control of the processing parameters of a designed rig using the squeeze casting technique. The next object was to produce a composite based on aluminum matrix alloy that can be used as a resistant target material against penetration with weight saving. Accordingly, a squeeze mold was designed and constructed. The rig design should be simple and flexible enough to control the main processing parameters. The processing parameters of the technique were optimized during preliminary experiments using Al• l 1. 7 % Si alloy as a matrix. It was found that the pressure built up inside the mold , in addition to gas venting during the process should be controlled. In the meanwhile, fiber preform and mold preheat should be in the range of 400-420 C. In addition,