MMC Casting Alloys.

Starmet has introduced two new Beralcast metal matrix composite (MMC) alloys. These alloys, based on the firm's family of patented beryllium aluminum alloys, offer customers a lower cost alternative to their existing beryllium aluminum materials with minimal decreases in engineered properties. Customers now can match their cost with performance requirements in new or upgraded mechanical system applications. The original alloy, Beralcast-363, was comprised of 65 wt% beryllium (Be); much of the final part cost was contributed by the input material. Beralcast-363L contains 45 wt% Be, which results in 14% lower density and 250% greater stiffness than cast aluminum. The second alloy, Beralcast-363HD, has a 30 wt% Be content, providing 10% lower density, 200% greater stiffness and at least four times higher ductility than cast aluminum. Both alloys are fabricated into complex configurations using a low-cost precision investment casting process. Depending on the configuration and procurement volumes, customers can e xpect cost savings of 10-40% when compared with the basic alloy. The fabricated cost and performance of these alloys are competitive with many of the advanced MMC aluminum alloys.