Finite element modeling of consolidation process of Si C fiber-reinforced titanium matrix composites via matrix-coated fiber method

The consolidation process of SiC_f/Ti-6Al-4 V composites by matrix-coated fiber(MCF) method via hot pressing was investigated using finite element modeling(FEM).By analyzing the elastic-plastic contact deformation of the representative aligned coated fibers,the consolidation maps delineating the time-temperature-pressure relationship for full densification were constructed.Both the flow coefficient and the contact area coefficient used to describe the contact deformation were calculated according to the model.In addition,the effect of fiber content on matrix stress distribution was analyzed.The results show that fiber content is a significant factor that influences the densification process.Higher fiber content will lower the consolidation rate.