Importance

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Abstract

A substantially homogeneous metal matrix composite conduction weld between first and second metal matrix composite components is formed by placing the components into abutting position, with a major portion thereof spaced from each other, and directing a laser beam through the spacing onto the intersection and oscillating the beam across the intersection to form a shallow pool of metal matrix composite while feeding a metal matrix composite filler wire into the pool. The laser beam and filler wire are moved along the intersection such that solidification of the molten pool containing the filler wire metal matrix composite is effected, to form the weld line, without separation of the metal matrix composite into separate phases. The filler wire may be preheated and pressure may be applied, either to one or both components in a direction transverse the plane of the intersection or to the weld line in the direction of the plane of the intersection.

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First Claim