Metal matrix composites for aeroengines

Abstract

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) will play a signi®cant role in the future of gas turbine aeroengine development. This paper outlines the bene®ts and some of the potential applications for Al and Ti MMCs and discusses issues involved in the introduction of this relatively new class of composite materials into engine components. The potential for cost savings and performance improvements which may be achieved by the introduction of silicon carbide particulate reinforced Al alloys (Al ± SiC p MMC) are discussed, where the properties of the composite can be tailored to meet the requirements of a speci®c application. Some of the processing implications for Ti matrix composites (Ti MMCs) are explained for a range of component applications. Illustrations are given of how the manufacturing process can be controlled for a complex component. Finally, the in¯uence of raw material, manufacturing, and component costs on the successful introduction of MMCs into aeroengines is discussed.MST/4567The authors are with Rolls-Royce plc, PO Box 31, Derby DE24 8BJ, UK. Contribution to `Metal matrix composites VII' (MMC VII) held at The Institute of Materials in London on 8 ± 9 December 1999.

Room and high temperature tensile behaviour of a P/M 2124/MoSi2 composite at different heat treatment conditions

“…Although ceramic reinforced materials would be more resistant to wear than those reinforced with intermetallics, the counterface is much less damaged in the latter case [6,22]. On the other hand, MoSi 2 was selected among other intermetallics because of its high elastic modulus [23,24], quite close to that of SiC, and in this sense MoSi 2 can be considered as a possible substitute for ceramics, not only for tribological applications, but also for other applications where high modulus of composite is required [25]. As observed in Fig.…”

Evolution of crack-bridging and crack-tip driving force during the growth of a fatigue crack in a Ti/SiC composite

“…This combined with excellent specific stiffness, elevated temperature strength and creep performance make such systems attractive for integrally bladed rings (Blings) and other aeroengine components (Hooker & Doorbar 2000;Ward-Close et al 2001;Withers 2010). In view of the need for the crack to by-pass the fibres rather than fracture *Author for correspondence (philip.withers@manchester.ac.uk).…”

Monotonic and Cyclic Deformation Behaviour of the SiC Particle‐Reinforced Aluminium Matrix Composite AMC225xe

“…Another potential area of application is the automotive industry, in which brake callipers and conrods for high performance Formula 1 and Indy racing vehicles are currently manufactured of high quality aerospace-grade aluminium alloy AA 2124 reinforced with 25 vol.-% ultra fine SiC particles, so-called AMC225xe. [2][3] …”