Aluminum MMC

Metal matrix composites (MMC) materials are produced in two primary methods – one, as a complete reinforcement material to the entire component, and two, as a reinforcement material to just a portion of a component. The best solution is dependent of the application, on the production volumes, and on the amount of machining required on the final component.

GSE offers the following ceramics processing services:
Metal Matrix Composites
Aluminum MMC
Magnesium MMC

GSE's work has been with the selective reinforcement concept, where a ceramic sponge, called a preform, is placed into a casting mold and infiltrated with molten metal during the squeeze casting process. When the part is ejected from the mold, the ceramic is permanently embedded into the component.

Benefits of MMCs:
- Increased Stiffness Manage Thermal Expansion
- Improved Wear Resistance Improved High Temperature Performance
- Vibration Damping Weight Reduction

GSE has been working with Century 3+, LLC on the development of a lightweight brake drum for a commercial truck application. The 15x4 drum is 45% lighter than the comparable iron drum, and has the potential to save about 60 pounds per axle. The weight savings is significant for vehicles that “gross out before they cube out” meaning the vehicle exceeds its weight capacity before it is full. For the military, the weight savings would allow an additional amount of armor or a protective system with a net zero weight gain.

GSE formulates the MMC composition, creates the preforms, coordinates the casting process, and performs both material and product testing. Material testing includes tensile testing (room & elevated temperature), wear, and impact testing. Product testing is coordinated at brake dynamometer companies.

GSE's expertise in metal matrix composites can provide design performance breakthroughs. Our team and technology partners can develop an MMC to meet your needs; cast and machine test bars or full part prototypes for instrumented field testing.