Editor’s note: This question was asked in response to Electronics Cooling’s recent webinar by Carl Zwebin. To view the webinar, click here.
Question: To what do you attribute the success of Al/SiC?
Answer: Al/SiC composites have attractive properties, including low CTEs, thermal conductivities in the range of aluminum alloys and low densities. In addition, the raw materials, aluminum and silicon carbide particles, are relatively cheap. The development of efficient manufacturing processes, some of which make net-shape parts, is another factor. As a result, Al/SiC is cost effective in many applications. Finally, we published the first paper on electronic application back in the 1980s, allowing plenty of time for technology to improve and industry awareness to grow.
-Carl Zwebin
