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AFT's Next Generation Technologies
AFT's product portfolio also encompasses other
technologies such as
Metal Matrix Composites (MMC) and
ThixoForming. These combined technologies allow
AFT to manufacture net shape components that address
a broad range of materials properties and requirements.
What follows is a brief
synopsis of the three state-of-the-art processes that
AFT refers to as its "Next Generation
Technologies"--technologies that have helped leverage the
company's annual double-digit growth rates.
Metal Injection Molding (MIM)
Combining the shape-making
capabilities of plastic injection molding with the
material flexibility of powder metallurgy, Metal
Injection Molding is well suited for the manufacture of
relatively small, complex components requiring high
strength and cost viability. Alloys and stainless steel,
superalloys along with other non-ferrous alloys like
titanium, are common materials for MIM.
MIM technology takes
advantage of unique process capabilities, such as
combining two or more components into one complex
geometry or co-molding and bonding dissimilar materials.
Its applications can be found in automotive parts,
aerospace applications, electronics/communications,
medical instruments/implants, electronics, firearms, as
well as hand and power tools.
Metal Matrix Composites (MMC)
When the demands for high
thermal conductivity, reduced weight, heat dissipation,
and high strength are factors for design considerations,
Metal Matrix Composites represent the next generation of
solutions for today's electronic requirements.
AFT's Composites Group is able to manufacture net
shape parts into complex shapes utilizing materials such
as Aluminum Silicon Carbide (AlSiC(TM)). Unlike most
materials, AlSiC and other metal matrix composites can
be tailored to fit customer specifications. This
technology is effective in applications dependent on
strength, weight and thermal management, such as:
aerospace, automotive, microelectronics, and computer
components.
ThixoForming
The ThixoForming process
offers an opportunity to manufacture high density,
complex shaped components from magnesium alloys for
medium to high volume applications such as
telecommunications, electronic packaging, computer
cases, power tools and a wide variety of consumer
products.
ThixoForming combines the
shape-making capabilities of plastic injection molding
with conventional die-casting technology. The process
takes advantage of the thixotropic--or semi-solid nature
of heated materials--to assist in microstructure
refinement and enhanced properties. Injection molding of
this semi-solid material yields complex, net shape and
high-density components.
The process offers excellent
metallurgical and tolerance capability when compared to
conventional die-casting. Geometries can be more
intricate, densities are higher, and the finish is
suitable for cosmetic coatings.
In future issues of AFT
World Wide we will discuss each technology in more
detail. If you have questions you would like answered
about our three state-of-the-art processes, please
e-mail
andyh@pcc-aft.com.
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