FUNCTIONALLY GRADED METAL MATRIX COMPOSITE SHEET AND METHOD FOR ITS PRODUCTION

摘要

Method of making a functionally graded metal matrix composite (MMC) product (20) having a solid central layer (18) enriched with particulate matter (10) sandwiched between outer shells (6, 8) by providing molten metal (M) containing particulate matter (10) to a pair of advancing casting surfaces (D1, D2), solidifying the molten metal (M), and withdrawing the MMC product (20) from between the casting surfaces (D1, D2). The solid central layer (18) contains a higher concentration of particulate matter (10) than either of the outer layers (6, 8). The MMC product (20) combines easy mechanical working characteristics and appearance of the metallic outer layers with the enhanced properties provided by the solid central layer (18).