Appeal 2007-1852
Application 10/936,925
7) Seth teaches that the matrix material may be a MCrAlY
composition or other suitable compositions provided the matrix
material entraps the hard particles, forms a sufficient bond
strength with the substrate, is resistant to high temperatures and
oxidation, and has sufficient mechanical properties to maintain its
shape on the substrate. (Seth [0010]).
8) The hard particles utilized in Seth’s process include cubic
boron nitride, diamond or other suitable particles having an
appropriate level of hardness. (Seth [0010]). The hard particles
have an average nominal particle diameter of between about 0.005
and 0.010 inches. (Seth [0024]).
9) According to Benoit, a known problem which occurs in the
compressor and turbine sections of gas turbine engines is that the
blade tips come into proximity to the inner wall of the engine case,
rubbing the case wall, or an abradable seal or rubstrip located on
the case wall. (Benoit, col. 1, ll. 17-20).
10) Benoit discloses that a known method of extending the life
of a blade tip is to apply abrasive layers to the blade tip surface.
Methods of applying the abrasive layers include powder
metallurgy techniques, plasma spray techniques, and
electroplating techniques. (Benoit, col. 1, ll. 62-64).
11) Benoit references specific prior art techniques for providing
an abrasive layer on a blade wherein the layer is described as
abrasive particulates entrapped within or encapsulated by the
metal matrix. (See Benoit, col. 1, l. 64 – col. 2, l. 30).
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