Matrix flow and densification during the consolidation of matrix coated fibres Original Research Article

The consolidation of titanium alloy metal matrix composites from matrix coated fibres has been modelled using a continuum finite element approach. Predictions of time to achieve full density are in good agreement with experimental data. The predicted matrix flow has been compared with metallographic sections from samples containing novel yttria marker layers, to allow measurements of actual flow during densification. These results are also in good agreement with the predictions of the model. Densification is shown to be strongly influenced by temperature and pressure consistent with the matrix constitutive law used. However, densification is almost independent of fibre volume fraction in the range 10–50% by volume. Densification is most rapid when a uniform densifying pressure is applied, any increase in deviatoric component for the same mean pressure leads to a decrease in densification rate.