Certain Physical Properties and Applications of Nitinol.
Abstract
Experimental investigations have been performed of a number of physical properties of the nickel-titanium alloy known as Nitinol. The program was limited to wires and tapes of two specific compositions. Four types of tests were undertaken to characterize some of the thermomechanical memory effects observed in this alloy: 1) Stress-strain, for repeated load applications at constant temperature. 2) Temperature-elongation, for repeated temperature cycles at constant stress level. 3) Temperature-elongation for repeated temperature cycles at discontinuously variable stress levels simulating a thermodynamic power generation cycle. 4) Differential thermal analysis of unstressed samples for the complete transition temperature range during repeated cooling and heating cycles. Based upon evaluation of the data obtained, a hypothesis of the deformation mechanism is postulated. Several engineering models demonstrating different applications of Nitinol were designed, fabricated, and tested. Descriptions of the physical properties characterized in the tests and of the various models and devices are presented in this report.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- ADA379759
Entities
People
- H. U. Schuerch