Joining of Advanced Aluminum-Graphite Composite

N. P. Hung, M. Velamati, E. Aguilar, M. A. Garza-Castañon, M. Powers

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Advanced aluminum graphite composites have unique thermal properties due to opposite coefficients of thermal expansion of aluminum and graphite. The thermal and mechanical properties of such composites are anisotropic due to directional properties of graphite fibers and their designed orientation. A joint of components with different fiber orientations would theoretically produce an isotropic material for thermal management purpose. This paper presents research results for welding and brazing of the composite using different joining techniques. A laser beam melts the matrix and delaminates graphite fibers. The molten aluminum reacts with graphite to form aluminum carbide Al 4C 3. The joint strength is compromised when laser welding at optimal conditions to minimize the carbide formation. Brazing is preferred since the low melting temperature of a filler material suppresses the formation of Al 4C 3 while minimizing shrinkage cavities in the joint. Microstructural study and shear test confirm the success of joining this composite by laser brazing and resistance brazing with Zn-Al filler.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSupplemental Proceedings
Subtitle of host publicationMaterials Fabrication, Properties, Characterization, and Modeling
Pages805-812
Number of pages8
Volume2
ISBN (Electronic)9781118062142
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 20 Apr 2011
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameSupplemental Proceedings: Materials Fabrication, Properties, Characterization, and Modeling
Volume2

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2011 The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society.

Copyright:
Copyright 2018 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Engineering(all)
  • Materials Science(all)

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Joining of Advanced Aluminum-Graphite Composite'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this