A method for forming an abradable composite material and the material so formed. A filler is fed axially into a stream of high-temperature combustion gases such that the filler is entrained in the gaseous stream. The gaseous stream containing the filler is then used to atomize the molten tip of a metal wire which is continuously fed into the gaseous stream. The resultant gaseous stream which contains both the filler and the atomized molten metal is directed to the surface of a target. The filler and the molten metal impact the target and combine to form a substantially continuous metal matrix in which the interstices are filled by the filler. The composite material abrades readily upon frictional contact with a moving part.