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Exp No: L4/S2/MT427/01

INTRODUCTION TO SHAPE MEMORY ALLOYS

NAME: COURSE: GROUP: NO:

P.S.P. RUPASINGHE B.Sc Eng (MATERIALS) C 080431T

DATE OF PER: 12/12/2012 DATE OF SUB: 20/12/2012

TITAL: Introduction to Shape Memory Alloys AIM Identify the shape memory effect of supplied shape memory alloy samples. INTRODUCTION A shape memory alloy is an alloy that "remembers" its geometry. After a sample of shape memory alloy has been deformed from its original crystallographic configuration, it regains its original geometry by itself during heating (one-way effect) or, at higher ambient temperatures, simply during unloading (superelasticity). These extraordinary properties are due to a temperature-dependent martensitic phase transformation from a low-symmetry to a highly symmetric crystallographic structure.
THEORY

Shape memory alloy senses a change in ambient temperature and is able to convert its shape to a preprogrammed structure. While shape memory alloy is soft and easily deformable in its lower temperature form (martensite), it resumes its original shape and rigidity when heated to its higher temperature form (austenite). This is called the one-way shape memory effect. The ability of shape memory alloys to recover a preset shape upon heating above the transformation temperatures and to return to a certain alternate shape upon cooling is known as the two-way shape memory effect. Two-way memory is exceptional. There is also an allround shape memory effect, which is a special case of the two-way shape memory effect.

MATERIALS AND APPARATES Shape memory alloy(Cu Zn Al Alloy) samples Electric heater Thermometer Beaker Water PROCEDURE Step 1 Shape memory alloy samples were immersed in hot water and shape variation were observed. Step 2 Shape memory alloy samples were immersed in water and temperature were increased gradually. Temperature range were measured by corresponding to the Af and As temperatures and temperature range were measured during the cooling.

RESULTS Austenite start temperature (As) = 64C0 Austenite finish temperature (Af) = 74C0 Martensite start temperature (Ms) = 68C0 Martensite finish temperature (Mf ) = 60C0

DISCUSSIONS

shape memory alloy can exist in a two different temperature-dependent crystal structures (phases) called martensite (lower temperature) and austenite (higher temperature). When martensite SMA is heated, it begins to change into austenite. The temperature at which this phenomenon starts is called austenite start temperature (As). The temperature at which this phenomenon is complete is called austenite finish temperature (Af). When austenite SMA is cooled, it begins to change onto martensite. The temperature at which this phenomenon starts is called martensite start temperature (Ms). The temperature at which martensite is again completely reverted is called martensite finish temperature (Mf). Composition and metallurgical treatments have dramatic impacts on the above transition temperatures. From the point of view of practical applications, SMA can have three different forms: martensite, stress-induced martensite (superelastic), and austenite. When the material is in its martensite form, it is soft and ductile and can be easily deformed. Superelastic SMA is highly elastic (rubber-like), while austenitic SMA is quite strong and hard. The unique behavior of SMA is based on the temperature-dependent austenite-to-martensite phase transformation on an atomic scale, which is also called thermoelastic martensitic transformation. The thermoelastic martensitic transformation causing the shape recovery is a result of the need of the crystal lattice structure to accommodate to the minimum energy state for a given temperature. In SMA, the relative symmetries between the two phases lead to a highly ordered transformation, where the displacements of individual atoms can be accurately predicted and eventually lead to a shape change on a macroscopic scale. The crystal structure of martensite is relatively less symmetric compared to that of the parent phase. If a single crystal of the parent phase is cooled below M f, then martensite variants with a total of 24 crystallographically equivalent habit planes are generally created. There is, however, only one possible parent phase (austenite) orientation, and all martensitic configurations revert to that single defined structure and shape upon heating above Af. The mechanism by which single martensite variants deform is called twinning, and it can be described as a mirror symmetry displacement of atoms across a particular atom plane, the twinning plane.

Superelasticity Superelasticity refers to the ability of SMA to return to its original shape upon unloading after a substantial deformation. This is based on stress-induced martensite formation. The application of an outer stress causes martensite to form at temperatures higher than M s. The macroscopic deformation is accommodated by the formation of martensite. When the stress is released, the martensite transforms back into austenite and the specimen returns back to its original shape. Superelastic SMA can be strained several times more than ordinary metal alloys without being plastically deformed, which reflects its rubber-like behavior. It is, however, only observed over a specific temperature area. The highest temperature at which martensite can no longer stress induced is called M d. Above Md SMA is deformed like ordinary materials by slipping. Below As, the material is martensitic and does not recover. Thus, superelasticity appears in a temperature range from near A f and up to Md. The largest ability to recover occurs close to Af .

Applications

Many of the current applications of SMA have been in the field of medicine. Orthodontic wires made out of Nitinol reduces the need to retighten and adjust the wire. These wires also accelerate tooth motion as they revert to their original shapes. SMA eyeglass frames can be bent totally out of shape and return to their parent shape upon warming. Another successful medical application is SMA use as a guide for catheters through blood vessels . There are examples of SMAs used in safety devices which will save lives in the future. Antiscalding devices and fire-sprinklers utilizing SMAs are already on the market. The anti-

scalding valves can be used in water faucets and shower heads. After a certain temperature, the device automatically shuts off the water flow. The main advantage of Nitinol-based fire sprinklers is the decrease in response time. SMA is being used in robotics actuators and micromanipulators to simulate human muscle motion. The main advantage of SMA is the smooth, controlled force it exerts upon activation. Other miscellaneous applications of shape memory alloys include use in household appliances, in clothing, and in structures. A deep fryer utilizes the thermal sensitivity by lowering the basket into the oil at the correct temperature. SMA actuators as engine mounts and suspensions can also control vibration. These actuators can helpful prevent the destruction of such structures as buildings and bridges. CONCLUTION A SMA senses a change in temperature and is able to convert its shape to a preprogrammed structure. While SMA is soft and easily deformable in its lower temperature form (martensite), it resumes its original shape and rigidity when heated to its higher temperature form (austenite) REFERANCE Microstructure and properties of SMA/Microscopy society of America Industrial applications of shape memory alloy/Ming H. Wu and L. McD. Schetky

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