Numerical Estimation of Thermal Conductivity in Copper and Superalloy Matrix Composites

2005 ◽  
Vol 475-479 ◽  
pp. 985-988 ◽  
Author(s):  
Diego Alcaraz ◽  
F. Alhama
Keyword(s):  
Thermal Conductivity ◽  
Steady State ◽  
Metal Matrix ◽  
Matrix Composites ◽  
Numerical Estimation ◽  
Continuous Fiber ◽  
Limit Values ◽  
Different Types ◽  
Random Distributions ◽  
Fiber Metal

Using a steady-state 2-D network model to simulate the thermal behaviour of copper and superalloy matrix composites, reinforced with different types of randomly distributed continuous fibers, the limit values of thermal conductivity are established for the analysed composites. A large number of random distributions for each matrix-fiber combination is tested to assess the accuracy of the numerical results. The influence of the type of fiber, its distribution and its proportion is shown graphically. Examples of continuous fiber metal matrix composites (continuous MMCs), such as those of copper and Incoloy 907 matrices, are studied.

Bounds of the Thermal Conductivity in Discontinuously Reinforced Metal-Matrix Composites

2005 ◽  
Vol 475-479 ◽  
pp. 3335-3338
Author(s):  
F. Alhama ◽  
Diego Alcaraz ◽  
S. Gómez-Lopera
Keyword(s):  
Thermal Conductivity ◽  
Metal Matrix Composites ◽  
Metal Matrix ◽  
Computing Time ◽  
Simulation Method ◽  
Matrix Composites ◽  
Limit Values ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Particulate Reinforced ◽  
Network Simulation Method

A simple model based on the network simulation method is proposed to estimate numerically the thermal conductivity of particulate reinforced metal-matrix composites. The estimation is carried out running the model in the standard Pspice code, the computing time being negligible. The 3-D solid is discretized in 1000 cubic volume elements which represent an acceptable approximation of the shape of the particles. For each reinforcement percentage and each combination of matrix and reinforcement more than 200 tests were carried out, so that the results may be considered close to the exact values. The limit values are scarcely influenced by the effect of the 3-D geometry and basically depend on the amount of the reinforcement. Applications to aluminum and titanium matrix composites reinforced with different types of particles are presented covering a wide range of reinforcement percentages.

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