Progress Toward a Denser Metal Matrix Composite Using the Three Dimensional Printing Method

摘要

Metal matrix composite materials (MMCs) offer superior specific strength and stiffness compared with conventional monolithic materials. Near-net-shaped MMC product fabrication is not easy with traditional composite processing. In this study, the three-dimensional printing (3DP) process has been applied to explore the feasibility of fabricating MMC parts. Spherical 420 stainless steel (SS) and silicon nitride (Si{sub}3N{sub}4) powders were used to process a metal matrix composite material system. Si{sub}3N{sub}4 powder contents, sintering temperature, and sintering time were varied in the experiments to understand interdependencies among the process variables. The dimensional change was measured using a high-temperature dilatometer during sintering. The volume and mass change caused by sintering were measured. It was clearly shown that the combination of 3DP method and optimal sintering condition had a high potential for obtaining uniform and dense MMC parts.