Abstract: The present disclosure relates to piston assembly comprising a piston having a circumferential groove and a ring groove insert within the circumferential groove of the piston. Particularly, the ring groove insert is a second material different from a first material of the piston. The second material has at least one of the following: a) a density from 90% to 120% of a density of the first material; b) a coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) from 50% to 90% of a CTE of the first material; or c) a thermal conductivity greater than a thermal conductivity of the first material.

Abstract: Metal matrix composites are disclosed that have a low coefficient of thermal expansion and low density. The composite includes a matrix formed from a low CTE metal alloy in which micron-scale ceramic particles are homogeneously dispersed therein. Methods for producing such composites are also disclosed. The composites also have improved yield strength and specific modulus.

Abstract: Metal matrix composite granules are disclosed comprising a ceramic phase dispersed in a matrix phase. The matrix phase includes aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The granules have an average particle size in the range of from about 100 ?m to about 1,000 ?m. Also disclosed are methods for producing the granules or articles or processes for using the granules to produce various articles, among other things.

Abstract: Metal matrix composite articles are made with a substrate and an anodized layer. The anodized layer includes matrix phase and a dispersed phase of reinforcement particles in the matrix, the matrix being an oxide of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The ratio of the thickness of the anodized layer to the average particle size (D50) of the reinforcement particles is at least 1.3.

Abstract: A metal matrix composite material includes a reinforcement phase dispersed in an aluminum or aluminum alloy matrix. The reinforcement phase includes particles having an average particle size (D50) of from 0.1 ?m to 0.5 ?m.