Designing with Metal Matrix Composites: When, Where and How
Abstract
This paper presents designs method based upon the concepts of structural indices for the selection of metal matrix composite (MMC) materials as substitutes for conventional materials in cases where direct and indirect weight savings, decreased life cycle costs, thermal deformation, wear resistance, and other parameters are important, and for cases where the available space is severely restricted (high loading stress density), thereby requiring high strength and/or high stiffness materials. General design considerations of technical criteria and of operational and cost criteria are briefly discussed. A brief discussion follows of the relevant MMC material property equations used in this paper. These equations are set in the form of parametric functions of two variables: the ratio of fiber-to-matrix elastic moduli and fiber volume fraction. These functions allow for simple graphing or tabulation of composite properties for a wide range of composite materials. The structural indices are then derived to calculate ratios between MMC and conventional material to compare weight to strength, impact resistance, efficiency of columns and plates, flexural rigidity, structural efficiency indices for plates and shells, and the work of fracture. Keywords: Metal matrix composites; Materials selection/substitutes; Structural properties.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA219420
Entities
People
- Jacques E. Schoutens