Metal matrix composite (MMC) stiffener rib being spray formed onto a 7075-T6 aluminum substrate panel via Kinetic Metallization (KM). The near line-of-site characteristics of KM allow the ribs to be deposited in pre-determined patterns with no need for masking or other concerns regarding overspray. The MMC being deposited in the above image is a titanium carbide (TiC) reinforced CP-aluminum.
By varying the deposition parameters, KM can obtain stiffening structures with various cross-sectional geometries. Above is shown a “fin” shaped structure along with a “T” geometry. Both MMCs shown here are silicon carbide (SiC) reinforced aluminum.
