Abstract: A molded article of metal matrix composite (MMC) includes a preform infilted in a casting process with metal or metal alloy, with the preform comprised of a plurality of spaced preform plates arranged in mosaic disposition in at least one plane, or stacked in several planes above one another, and formed with bores. The spacing between neighboring preform plates and the spacing between overlying planes of preform plates are filled with infiltration metal or metal alloy, without permeation of infiltration metal into the bores.