Development and Evaluation of Aluminum-Graphite Fine Wire and Strip (Ribbon).

摘要

The program objective was to develop and evaluate aluminum-graphite fine wire and strip (ribbon) in connection with efforts to provide high strength, lightweight, temperature resistant materials for rocket motor cases and third stage components of strategic missile systems. In the first phase of the program, parameters of the Lachman Process were optimized in the Chemical Process Laboratory at FMI, and fine aluminum-graphite wire was successfully formed at speeds approaching 60 inches per minute. No unwetted fibers were apparent in the metallographic studies performed on the wire, nor were voids noticed as in the case of the eight strand wire produced in previous experimental work. Technology for the process was transferred to Materials Concepts, Inc. (FMI's metal-graphite composite manufacturing facility) where 8000 feet of single strand Thornel 50/A201 aluminum-graphite wire was prepared for the second and third phases of the program.