Current status of secondary processing of metal matrix composites using high energy density beams

Abstract

Metal matrix composites (MMC’s), due to their superior physical and mechanical properties and a high strength to weight ratio, are increasingly being used by aerospace and automotive industries. The presence of tougher reinforcement fibers such as ceramics, however, leads to excessive tool wear and large machining times during secondary processing using conventional techniques. Non-contact, high energy density beam processing techniques using lasers and electron beams though highly developed for most metals and alloys are not yet adequate for secondary processing of MMC’s. In view of the current industry trends to use more light weight structural composite materials, and the greater use of high energy density beams for a variety of metalworking applications, this paper provides a review of the status of high energy density beam processing of MMC’s. Emphasis is placed on review of problems and process details pertinent to high energy laser processing of MMC’s.Metal matrix composites (MMC’s), due to their superior physical and mechanical properties and a high strength to weight ratio, are increasingly being used by aerospace and automotive industries. The presence of tougher reinforcement fibers such as ceramics, however, leads to excessive tool wear and large machining times during secondary processing using conventional techniques. Non-contact, high energy density beam processing techniques using lasers and electron beams though highly developed for most metals and alloys are not yet adequate for secondary processing of MMC’s. In view of the current industry trends to use more light weight structural composite materials, and the greater use of high energy density beams for a variety of metalworking applications, this paper provides a review of the status of high energy density beam processing of MMC’s. Emphasis is placed on review of problems and process details pertinent to high energy laser processing of MMC’s.