Manufacturing of Composite and Hybrid Materials by Semi Solid Forming

Abstract

Materials with good mechanical properties and low density are characteristic for lightweight constructions in automotive and aerospace application as well as in the building industry. For this reason, the manufacturing of composite and hybrid materials is in focus of academic and industrial research. Because of the complex and expensive manufacturing process, the application of composite and hybrid materials in many cases is confined to niche and custom-made products. Therefore, the Institute for Metal Forming Technology (IFU) is concerned with the development of new processes for the manufacturing of metal matrix composites and hybrid components by semi-solid forming. Fibre reinforced AlSi-alloys are produced by the application of laminates made of alternating metal matrix layers and carbon fibre fabrics. Hybrid components are manufactured by the integration of higher-strength materials in the semi-solid forming process of aluminium alloys. Here, the main challenge is the integration of the reinforcing components without damaging due to high thermal and mechanical loads that are affecting during the process. These research activities are not only interesting for the mechanical engineering, but also for the civil engineering as this paper will reveal.