Affordable SiC-fibre reinforced metal matrix composite for high temperature application

Abstract

Titanium matrix composites (TMCs) reinforced unidirectionally with continuous silicon carbide fibres are considered to be attractive candidate materials for structural components in future jet engines. TMCs show superior mechanical properties (such as tensile, creep and fatigue) compared to unreinforced titanium alloys [1]. However, the serial application of titanium matrix composites is still very limited due to cost reasons and processing difficulties. Potential applications may be found in aircraft engines where high specific strength and stiffness are needed in combination with heat resistance. Current processes are using unidirectional or hot isostatical pressing for the consolidation of the composite material [2]. The pressing of the material leads to shrinkage, distortion and fibre breakage in the worst case. To diminish these difficulties a pressureless process has been developed for the production of SiC-fibre reinforced metal matrix composites for high temperature applications. Especially for ring applications where the fibres are in hoop direction a process without shrinkage and distortion offers many advantages.