Understanding Metal Additive Manufacturing — Lesson 1

This lesson covers the process of preparing metal matrix composite through additive manufacturing. It delves into the conventional manufacturing techniques for metal matrix composite, the challenges and opportunities in the field, and the preparation of composite materials. The lesson also discusses the factors affecting composite properties and the different methods used in solid phase, liquid phase, and deposition techniques. It further explains the role of additive manufacturing in creating novel structures with distinctive geometry and how it is ideal for automotive, aerospace, and other industries. The lesson concludes with an assignment for learners to understand a typical micrograph of aluminum Al2O3 metal matrix composite and to find out the interfacial strength between the matrix and reinforcement.

Video Highlights

00:38 - Explanation of the normal route of preparing metal matrix composite through powder metallurgy and sintering cycle
07:42 - Explanation of the different methods of making metal matrix composite including liquid phase method, solid phase method, solid liquid phase, dual phase method and deposition method
19:50 - Discussion on the challenges and opportunities in additive manufacturing of metal matrix composite
33:47 - Discussion on the challenges in additive manufacturing of metal matrix composite including porosity, melt pool instability, and post-processing expenditures
36:25 - Explanation of the preparation of composite material through mechanical mixing method
45:59 - Discussion on the impact of the dropping phenomena of a powder particle in the milling process

Key Takeaways

- Metal matrix composite is prepared through additive manufacturing, which involves powder metallurgy and sintering cycle.
- The process of additive manufacturing involves several parameters that need to be optimized.
- The conventional manufacturing techniques for metal matrix composite include liquid phase method, solid phase method, and deposition.
- Additive manufacturing allows for the production of novel structures with distinctive geometry, making it an attractive manufacturing approach for composites.
- The process input factors affect composite properties and interfacial strength in reinforcing the material and matrix.