Amorphous Metals for Penetrator Noses and Cases

An amorphous metal matrix composite, consisting of a Ni-W (nickel-tungsten) amorphous matrix with second phase hard ceramic WC (tungsten-carbide) particles is proposed as an new class of metallic glass material. By leveraging Integran Technology USA"s expertise in the synthesis of nanocrystalline metals, alloys and composites, an electroforming process will be developed to produce NiW-WC: a novel alloy engineered to possess mechanical properties tailored for ballistic applications. The proposed process to synthesize and form amorphous metals by electroforming, which is based upon electrodeposition, has several advantages such as: (i) dimensional consistency and superior surface finish (in particular complex interior configurations), (ii) fully dense material - free of cracks or porosity, (iii) allows for the use of existing electroplating infrastructure within the defense sector and (iv) affords the ability to tailor material composition and microstructure by controlling electrolyte composition, temperature, fluid flow field and electrical parameters in the process. It is believe that these strong processing attributes will significantly reduce the time and cost to practical implementation.