Metal Matrix Composites

Powder metal processing has been successfully applied to variety of metal matrix composites, the most popular being aluminum-silicon carbide particulate reinforced materials. These composites offer high stiffness (modulus), reduced thermal coefficient of expansion with little effect on thermal conductivity or density. These Al-SiC composites are being used for their structural stiffness and strength in aircraft and sporting goods products, as well as in electronic thermal management applications such as heat sinks. Manufacturing techniques require cold isostatic pressing (CIP) to consolidate the powders, followed by hot extrusion or hot forging to full density.