Modelling consolidation of Ti-6Al-4V/SiC matrix-coated fibre metal matrix composites

摘要

A numerical, quantitative model has been developed for the solid-state consolidation of continuous Matrix-Coated Fibre (MCF) Metal Matrix Composites (MMC). The model is based on a Finite Element Model (FEM), taking into account plastic flow andpower-law creep of the matrix as main consolidation mechanisms. Both a hexagonal and a square fibre stacking symmetry were investigated at different consolidation temperatures and pressures. The FEM model was used to evaluate the stress - strainrelationship during consolidation and the creep behaviour of the matrix. Using FEM it was possible to determine local stress/strain maxima as a function of the consolidation time, temperature and pressure. It was possible to predict the necessaryconsolidation time for a given set of consolidation parameters to obtain a fully dense composite. It was hence possible to predict optimum parameters and thus avoid unnecessary damage to the fibre and the fibre coating. The results obtained from themodelling simulations showed good agreement with the experiments which were conducted as a verification programme using Scanning Electron Microscopy of special marker samples.