Characterization of Reversibly-Actuating Shape Memory Alloy Foils Produced By Planar Flow Casting

Abstract

Near-net-shape nickel-titanium shape memory alloy (SMA) foils of long length and larger width have been produced by a planar flow casting facility at CSIRO. The advantages of these thin SMA foils include generating a large actuation force, responding faster to thermal stimulus, low cost, etc, which could be used in the field of thermo-sensors. The study focuses on establishing the characteristics of their reversable actuation using several analytical techniques, such as determining phase transformation temperature - i.e. the required temperature for initiating actuation by differential scanning calorimetry, studying the reversable actuation behaviour as a function of actuating time and temperature, and mechanical testing for measuring the actuation stress. The findings of the study will be presented on actuation behaviour in terms of stress, speed, and reversibility, as well as on the parameters affecting the actuation, such as training cycle. The preparation for future digitizing the data accumulated to be utilised in predictive modelling and the potentials of the reversable SMA foils for future industrial applications are discussed.