Characterization of fiber-reinforced metal matrix composites fabricated by low-pressure infiltration process

The physical and mechanical properties of randomly oriented fiber-reinforced metal matrix composites (FRMMCs) fabricated by LPI process were examined. SiC particles and SiC fibers were used as reinforcement, while Al-4 mass% Cu alloy, Al-7 Si mass% alloy and AZ91 alloy were used as matrix. A mixture consisting of aluminum particles, SiC particles and SiC fibers was prepared as a preform to control the distribution of SiC fibers in FRMMC. Randomly oriented FRMMC specimens were fabricated by infiltrating the molten matrix alloy into the preform by pressing the melt surface with a low pressure of Ar gas. FRMMC specimens showed a high performance in thermal cycling test as well as an excellent wear resistance. The Vickers hardness of FRMMC specimens was almost constant on the different sections and the physical and mechanical properties were found to be isotropic.