Partnership between Alvant and 3M announced to advance metal matrix composite technology

Alvant, a leading specialist in the manufacture of aluminium matrix composites (AMC) materials, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the aim of furthering a strategic partnership with 3M to accelerate development of its capabilities and find real world applications.

The focus of the collaboration is on advancing core technology in the areas of electric machines (motor and generator) and lightweight metallic components which require enhanced performance characteristics.

The partnership aims to develop applications using Alvant’s patented Advanced Liquid Pressure Forming (ALPF) process technology and 3M Advanced materials products, which could bring energy and cost-saving benefits to manufacturers and engineers across sectors including automotive and industrial.

ALPF is the method by which Alvant brings together aluminium, which acts as the matrix, and a variety of specialist materials to create a high-performance AMC material.

Recent breakthroughs have now made AMCs an exciting option for designers and engineers looking to achieve increased lightness, stiffness and strength while addressing sustainability. The ability of AMCs to separate the fibres from the aluminium at its end-of-life stage is a major benefit to manufacturers to simplify recycling.