Abstract: A fiber reinforced metal is made by introducing an array of fibers into a die, charging the die with molten metal by vacuum infiltration and then applying pressure by means of an inert gas to improve the penetration of the molten metal into the fiber array. Apparatus for producing a reinforced metal cylinder comprises a cylindrical former (2) onto which a composite fiber (3) of boron, silicon and carbon is wound. The former (2) forms an inner closure member for the die defining a cylindrical die cavity (8) with an outer die body (4). A central cavity (15) within the former (2) is for insertion of a heating element to facilitate the flow of metal through the cavity (8). The die cavity is evacuated via conduit (16) and molten metal is then drawn into the cavity via the passage (7). After charging the die with molten metal the conduit (16) is connected to a source of high pressure nitrogen.

Abstract: An apparatus for homogenizing liquid such as emulsions and dispersions wherein the liquid is jetted from a nozzle onto a blade which is allowed to or cause to vibrate. To each side of the blade is a tuning member such as a plate which is adjustable towards and away from the blade thereby to constrain the passage of the liquid over the blade to the spaces at opposite sides of the blade and between the tuning plates and the blade. The position of the tuning plates depends upon the conditions of or in the liquid such as pressure, temperature and viscosity and the apparatus is set for optimum running depending upon these conditions.