Department of Machine Tool Technology (M T T), S. J. Government Polytechnic K. R. Circle, Bangaluru-560001, Karnataka, India.
Research Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2019, 02(01), 084-091
Received on 13 May 2019; Revised 25 May 2019; accepted on 29 May 2019
Additive Manufacturing (AM) of Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs) is an emerging technology that combines the benefits of advanced manufacturing with the superior mechanical properties of composite materials. This innovative approach enables complex geometries, material efficiency, and tailored mechanical performance, making it highly desirable for aerospace, automotive, biomedical, and defense applications. However, several challenges limit its full industrial adoption, including process optimization, material compatibility, and defect formation. This paper provides a comprehensive exploration of the critical challenges in AM of MMCs, focusing on key factors such as reinforcement distribution, interfacial bonding, porosity control, and thermal management. The influence of processing parameters on microstructural integrity and mechanical properties is analyzed in detail. Additionally, the paper discusses opportunities in hybrid manufacturing approaches, the development of advanced reinforcement materials such as nano-ceramics and graphene, and the integration of real-time process monitoring through artificial intelligence and in-situ sensing technologies. A comparative analysis of various AM techniques such as Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), Directed Energy Deposition (DED), and Binder Jetting is conducted to evaluate their feasibility, advantages, and limitations for MMC fabrication. Figures, tables, and bar charts are utilized to illustrate key trends, process performance, and property enhancements. The findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of AM-based MMC fabrication, highlighting potential pathways for overcoming existing challenges and paving the way for future advancements in this field.
Additive Manufacturing (AM); Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs); Powder Bed Fusion (PBF); Directed Energy Deposition (DED); Reinforcement Distribution; Interfacial Bonding
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Chandrashekharaiah S. B. Additive manufacturing of MMCs: challenges and opportunities. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2019, 2(1), 084-091. Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/wjarr.2019.2.1.0127