Pressure infiltration processes to synthesize metal matrix composites - A review of metal matrix composites, the technology and process simulation

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) acquire their improved physical and mechanical properties through the careful reinforcement of their matrices by a variety of light but strong and stable reinforcement materials. The pressure infiltration process (PIP) is one of the most important techniques used for making MMCs with a high reinforcement content in which a molten metal or alloy is injected and solidified in a mold packed with continuous or discontinuous reinforcement materials. Several factors affect the quality of MMCs made by this process. These include, but are not limited to, the reinforcement type, preform geometry, applied pressure and pressure control, as well as the transport phenomena of the molten metal. This paper presents a review of the various aspects of MMCs, the process in terms of the technological details, the latest developments in the reinforcement materials used and the simulation models developed for pressure infiltration manufacturing of MMCs.