Structure of AlSi-SiC composite foams surface formed by mechanical and thermal cutting

The article presents the geometric structure of AlSi-SiC composite foam surface after thermal, mechanical and erosive cutting with regards to its subsequent practical applications. In stereometric measurements of foam surfaces, confocal microscopy was suggested as a method fit for measuring surfaces of high discontinuity ratio that results from porosity. Basic quality parameters of cutting plane were characterised, and technical as well as methodological problems deriving from atypical porous structure of metallic foams were identified. On the basis of the results obtained, the influence of cutting methods on the geometric parameters of foam plane was established, and most favourable cutting conditions were determined.