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AN INTRODUCTION TO METAL FOAMS
V.Ryan © 2018
 
Video - Metal Foams
 
Metal foams are solid structures, usually composed of a dense outer layer, with the inner portion in the form of a matrix of pores. Foams possess the property of ‘porosity’, allowing air/gas and even liquids to pass through them and they are based on materials with a similar structure, such as natural bone, pumice stone and natural sponges. They have an internal cellular matrix structure. Aluminium, tantalum and titanium, are the metals that are commonly manufactured as foams.
 
 
 
 
Metal foams are extremely lightweight compared to their equivalent solid sections, often weighing approximately 5% to 25% of the solid form. However, they remain extremely strong, due to their internal cellular structure. They have the advantage of being porous, allowing gas and liquids to pass through. Their cellular structure ensures that they can withstand considerable compressive / crushing forces. Their thermal conductivity is low, as heat is dissipated throughout the internal cellular matrix of pores.
 
Metal foams have enhanced physical properties compared to their solid form. For instance, aluminium metal foam has an even lower thermal conductivity, than the solid or tube versions. Metal foams can be recycled in the same way as other metals.
 
 
 
 
SAMPLE METAL FOAM STRUCTURES / MATRIX
 
PRODUCTION / MANUFGACTURE OF FOAM METALS
 
Metal Foams are manufactured by driving gas bubbles through molten metal, to form a matrix of pores. Ceramic powder is added to the mix, to increase the viscosity (thickness) of the molten metal, which ensures the consistent distribution of bubbles throughout the metal. Without the ceramic powder, the bubbles would tend to rise to the top layer of molten metal, creating an inconsistent and weak foam.
 
 
 
 
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