Article: Laser-assisted CMC milling: new technology will soon enable the high-speed precision machining of CMCs at a significantly reduced cost.

Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) are becoming widely used in aerospace applications (especially in rocket motors and turbine engine hot exhaust areas) as a method to reduce weight while increasing performance and efficiency. Continuous-fiber CMCs typically consist of a silicon carbide (SiC) ceramic matrix and SiC ceramic fibers, which together create a SiC/SiC composite. These composites can withstand extreme temperatures, making them ideal for propulsion system components.

CMCs are replacing the nickel, chromium and titanium alloys historically used in high-temperature applications, resulting in reduced structure weight (as much as 50% for certain applications). ...

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