Routes for the Joining of Metal Matrix Composite Materials

Kumaravel Kalaiselvan, Isaac Dinaharan, Nadarajan Murugan

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

6 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) provide a range of desirable properties which are superior to existing monolithic materials. These MMCs need to be joined together or with other materials for structural and industrial applications to enable their usage. It can be a challenging task to obtain sound joints due to the presence of hard particle reinforcements. This article surveys the weldability of MMCs using fusion welding processes such as gas tungsten arc welding, laser beam welding, electron beam welding, and solid-state welding processes like friction welding and friction stir welding. The reinforcements increase the viscosity of the molten material during fusion joining. The absorption of air leads to porosity and the solidification can often produce a more coarse grain structure. The high temperature causes decomposition and uncontrolled reactions between the base matrix and reinforcement leading to the formation of brittle intermetallics. High energy beam welding processes provide a narrow bead and smaller heat affected zone but the high temperature triggers interfacial reaction. Solid state welding processes produce sound joints with fine grained structure resulting without any deleterious interfacial reaction. Nevertheless, friction welding is applicable only to some geometries of solid and hollow cylindrical components. The abrasive nature of the ceramic reinforcement particles produces undesirable wear of the welding tool in friction stir welded composites. The effect of each welding process on the microstructure and the mechanical properties of the joints are presented in detail.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEncyclopedia of Materials
Subtitle of host publicationComposites
PublisherElsevier
Pages652-670
Number of pages19
Volume2
ISBN (Electronic)9780128197318
ISBN (Print)9780128197240
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2021
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Electron beam welding
  • Friction stir welding
  • Friction welding
  • Gas tungsten arc welding
  • Laser beam welding
  • Metal matrix composites
  • Microstructure
  • Tensile strength

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Engineering
  • General Materials Science

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