Search Results

High reinforcement content metal matrix composites are produced by the infiltration of molten Al alloys into preforms of ceramic particles using the PRIMEX™ pressureless metal infiltration process. These composites possess low density, very high specific stiffness, high fatigue strength, and good corrosion resistance, making them excellent candidates for automotive brake caliper applications. Most current production brake calipers are fabricated from ductile iron. Ductile iron provides good stiffness and fatigue strength, requirements for the application, but also possesses high density and poor corrosion resistance. The introduction of preform infiltrated metal matrix composites into brake caliper applications, however, has been slow due to the complex geometry. Low cost, high volume preform fabrication techniques suited to the production of full fist caliper preforms that can be subsequently infiltrated with molten Al alloy do not currently exist.

This paper presents a brief review of our present national launch vehicle inventory, and discusses briefly the economic characteristics of these systems. Continual emphasis should be placed upon the means of finding more economical launch vehicles, and potential concepts are discussed which may offer economic benefits to future military space operations. Military requirements for future systems are discussed in a general manner in stressing the need for a valid reliability-cost tradeoff. Finally, any system is dependent upon sound technical management, and continued progress in this area is also essential. Continued Air Force selective studies are required in order to establish the planning data upon which future system selection can be made.