Reactive P/M of Garrma Titanium Aluminide Matrix Composites For IHPTET Compressor Structures

Intermetallic matrix composites(IMCs) with high specific mechanical properties and 1,8OOF service temperature capability are critically needed for the successful development of 20:1 thrust to weight ratio turbine engines targeted under the IHPTET initiative. The application of IMCs to advanced systems is currently limited due to the unavailability of fabrication processes suitable to produce complex shaped parts at an acceptable cost. During Phase I, Foster- Miller will demonstrate the feasibility of an innovative powder metallurgy (P/M) process to fabricate high performance Y-titanium aluminide matrix composites. Major advantages of this process include: . Low processing temperatures (1,600F) which prevents fabrication related fiber and composite degradation. Net-shape fabrication of complex shapes. Versatile in terms of allowable fibers and matrix systems. Well suited for scale-up in part size and production volume. Relatively low materials, tooling and processing costs. Successful implementation of this technology will lead to turbine engines with higher T/W, lower fuel consumption and lower life cycle cost. The Phase I program will identify the process parameters to produce homogeneous 2Nb-2Cr Y-phase matrix and demonstrate superior properties in Y-composite specimens. General Electric and Rocketdyne have indicated a keen interest in working with us to develop and eventually implement this technology in advanced aeroengines. The follow-on Phase II program will demonstrate repeatability of high mechanical properties in optimally processed Y-TiAI composite specimens. Subsequently, a Y-TiAI composite demonstration article will be reactive cast to net-shape and evaluated against the baseline component in terms of performance, weight and cost.