Centrifugal Casting of Metal Matrix Composites

Abstract

There are three major types of centrifugal casting used for the infiltration of molten metal into fibrous preforms. In this chapter, the infiltration of molten metal into fibrous preforms using centrifugal force is discussed theoretically and the predictions of the theory are compared with experimental results. We discuss the rotational speed necessary for infiltration to start, the pressure distribution in the preforms, the velocity of the infiltration front and other important parameters. When the volume fraction of fibers is not high, the pressure necessary for the infiltration of molten metal is low. This process is suitable for fabricating products which are symmetrical around a rotational axis, and uses simple and economical casting equipment. In addition to discussion of fibrous preforms, centrifugal casting of molten metal including ceramic particles is also discussed, focusing on the theory of the behavior of a ceramic particle in molten metal in the centrifugal force field.