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US 5,394,930 AGranted
Casting method for metal matrix composite castings
OwnerSteven Kennerknechtinventor
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Abstract
The invention discloses an improved method for forming metal matrix composite castings. The method achieves the casting having increased mechanical properties by using a selectively permeable mold in conjunction with pressurized gas. This allows a greater degree of metal infiltration within the interstices of a suspended preform. The method teaches the use of whiskered, fibered and particulated ceramic constituents for use in the preform, as well as various embodiments of casting methods.
Claims14
A method for forming a reinforced metal matrix composite material casting comprising:
- providing a selectively gas permeable mold and pressurable enclosure;
- providing a composite material which is a selectively permeable preform for reinforcing said casting;
- suspending said preform within said mold by suspension means to maintain a clearance between said preform and said mold for at least a major part of the periphery of the preform;
- heating said mold and preform;
- substantially surrounding said preform with molten metal by pouring said molten metal into said mold while said mold is at approximately atmospheric pressure;
- subsequently placing said mold in said pressurable enclosure;
- providing a cooling gas and pressurizing said cooling gas in said pressurable enclosure whereby the molten metal is pressurized through said mold and said porous preform is pressurably infiltrated with said molten metal.
4 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.