Two primary impediments to widespread us of aluminum matrix composites in high temperature applications have been addressed by the development of a 2000 series aluminum matrix composite reinforced with a spherical alumina.  The matria alloy has beed modified to make a composite that has strength values that are similar to 2618 aluminum at temperatures up to 350°C.  The composite is made with a patented spherical aluminum oxide that allows the composite to be  machinined into parts at an acceptable cost. Gamma Technology has refined the production of spherical aluminum oxide particles and has incorporated the new particles into aluminum matrix composites.

This paper will discuss the mechanical properties of the new composites containing the spherical alumina particles.  The properties will be tensile and fatigue properties at room temperature and at 300°C.  The paper will also discuss the machining studies conducted on this composite that confirm the significant reduction in machining costs.