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2009
Conference Paper
Titel
Progress in processing of shaped closed cell iron foam parts
Alternative
Fortschritt bei der Herstellung von Eisenschaumformteilen mit geschlossener Struktur
Abstract
Two process routes for production of metal foams have been transferred from aluminium to iron-based matrix materials. Adaptation and further development finally allowed for production of shaped iron foam parts via both routes. While technical feasibility could generally be proven, industrial applicability is still limited. For the melt foaming approach the maximum achieved porosity of approx. 30% is comparably low. Generation of a homogeneous pore distribution and its stabilisation until the liquid foam has been frozen into the solid state still requires further research and development. Shaped foam parts made by the powder metallurgical process route showed a porosity level similar to aluminium foams (approx. 60% porosity). But homogeneity of the pore structure needs to be improved and further reduction of the density would open further fields of application. Avoidance of any chemical reaction between mould and liquid foam is the key issue for successful and cost competitive iron foam part production.