Micro-Plasma Torch for Ceramic Direct Writing

Not Available Increased rigidity is required for increasing the maneuverability of next-generation missile systems. High stiffness aluminum alloys are optimum candidates for missile structures, including the missile airframe, seeker supports, and control surfaces. Specifically, aluminum metal matrix composites (MMC¿s) have higher strength and stiffness than graphite composite structures while being potentially much lower cost, more reliable, and more durable if improved fabrication methods can be developed. The proposed program will demonstrate an innovate thermal spray forming process for aluminum MMC¿s which integrates the low cost spray forming and post-forming mechanical working steps into a single step process suitable for the fabrication of sheet stock, tube, and other thin cross-section parts. Powdermet will produce tailored, pre-alloyed Al/SiC spray powders and will team with UCLA to develop the combined thermal spray/mechanical working process resulting in very low cost fabrication of high stiffness, high strength and toughness aluminum MMC parts