Abstract
Bending processing of fiber reinforced metal was attempted. Materials used were single layer continuous boron fiber reinforced superplastic alloys (SPZ: Zn-22%Al), which were fabricated under the optimum condition determined elsewhere. V bending tests were carried out at 250°C, and the effects of the fiber locations and matrix superplasticity on the shape of bent specimen and punch load were investigated. In the case of non-superplastic metal matrix, successful bending is difficult and accompanied with fiber fractures, especially for the FRM with inside or outside fiber locations. On the other hand, when matrix metal show superplasticity, specimens are bent successfully without fiber fractures regardless of fiber locations. Furthermore, matrix superplasticity decreases the punch load due to the low flow stress of matrix metal. It has been made clear by L bending tests carried out for the investigation of the minimum bending radius that matrix superplasticity enhances the minimum bending radius until that of the unrestrained single fiber. The evaluation of strength of bent composites has shown that the heat treatment to remove the superplasticity from matrix metal increases the strength of bent specimen.
