Ceramic Matrix Composite Parts Marking

Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) are increasingly being considered for a variety of hot structure applications, both military and commercial use. CMCs offer improvements in durability, higher temperature capability and reduced weight. Rapid, reliable, and cost effective parts marking technology is necessary for in-process tracking and parts flow optimization, but the process is complicated for CMCs, given the high temperature exposures they are subject to during processing and in service. Ex One proposes to use short pulse laser technologies for the installation of Item Unique Identification (IUID) features on CMC components. The goal of the program is to develop a technique which is rapid, low cost, automated, and allows for automated scanning. Both picosecond and femtosecond laser marking technologies will be evaluated. Ex One will conduct picosecond marking tests and will team with Raydiance, a femtosecond laser manufacturer, for marking tests using femtosecond lasers. Additional team members include Rolls-Royce for application specific information relative to CMC components and ATK as a manufacturer of CMC materials and components. The team will provide an analysis of the manufacturing and utilization of CMC materials, two regimes of short pulse laser technology, parts marking expertise and evaluation of material properties following the marking process.