Abstract: The present invention provides for assemblies comprising metal matrix composite bars where the bars only intermittently have mutual contact. Minimally two bars of metal matrix composite are joined, for example by lap joints, or by the use of incorporated tabs and slots or over-lapping slots, at areas of mutual contact to form the assemblies. The metal matrix composite assemblies of the present invention may be readily assembled to provide structures, supports, or sub-assemblies, and the like, that may exhibit high strength and stiffness coupled with relatively low mass. Additionally, such assemblies may withstand exposure to elevated temperatures higher than can be tolerated by polymeric composites. Such assemblies are expected to be particularly suitable for lightweight, stiff support structures for space booms, satellite structures, mirror backings, solar panel supports, wall reinforcement, and the like.

Abstract: A wet filament winding method and apparatus for producing a consolidated metal matrix composite is described. The methods are directed to winding a softened metal infiltrated fiber bundle and layering the resulting softened metal infiltrated fiber bundle onto a rotating mandrel in a prescribed pattern on the surface of the mandrel to form a consolidated metal matrix composite. Upon cooling, the matrix metal solidifies and the resulting consolidated metal matrix composite may be removed from the mandrel. The consolidated metal matrix composites may be produced in a variety of shapes, such as cylinder, a tapered cylinder, a sphere, an ovoid, a cube, a rectangular solid, a polygonal solid, and panels.

Abstract: The present invention provides for assemblies comprising metal matrix composite bars where the bars only intermittently have mutual contact. Minimally two bars of metal matrix composite are joined, for example, by lap joints, or by the use of incorporated tabs and slots or over-lapping slots, at areas of mutual contact to form the assemblies. The metal matrix composite assemblies of the present invention may be readily assembled to provide structures, supports, or sub-assemblies, and the like, that may exhibit high strength and stiffness coupled with relatively low mass. Additionally, such assemblies may withstand exposure to elevated temperatures higher than can be tolerated by polymeric composites. Such assemblies are expected to be particularly suitable for lightweight, stiff support structures for space booms, satellite structures, mirror backings, solar panel supports, wall reinforcement, and the like.

Abstract: Metal matrix composites having open or closed channels extending longitudinal through the length of the composite as well as methods and apparatus for forming the same are described. The shaped metal matrix composites are made of continuous fiber reinforced metal matrix composite materials. They have an integrally formed, non-cast, metal matrix composite body portion where the walls have a substantially uniform distribution of continuous fibers in a matrix metal throughout the volume of the walls and have at least one channel extending through the body of the shaped metal matrix composite.

Abstract: A glass fiber reinforced metal matrix composite is described. The composite includes glass fibers distributed in a metal matrix body. The fibers may be uniformly distributed in the metal matrix and may include continuous lengths of the glass fibers. The glass fibers may be glass fibers, S-glass, E-glass fibers, soda-lime-silica fibers, basalt fibers, quartz fibers, or other similar glassy fibers. The metal matrix may include aluminum or alloys of aluminum as well as other metals and alloys.