Categorized as warmer grades of Nitinol, shape memory is more appropriate for use in high temperature industrial applications. Shape memory grades are also about to take the spotlight for their use in Nitinol actuators.
Shape memory isn't limited to use in industrial applications. Designs often leverage phase transformation at body temperature (37°C [98.6°F]), making shape memory Nitinol useful for medical devices.
Examples of uses for shape memory grades:
NiTi #5 is commonly used in high temperature actuators.
NiTi #6 is commonly used in high temperature actuators.
NiTi #8 is typically used in applications that require a phase transformation at body temperature.
All binary Nitinol grades meet the chemistry requirements set forth by ASTM F2063 for use in surgical implants.
Our unique product offerings could be just what you're looking for if the typical grades of Nitinol aren't quite right. From ultra-smooth oxide free Silk® Nitinol, to ultra-stiff USN® wire, you'll find all kinds of material solutions right here.
Actuator wire can perform work through a phase transformation. Simply put, a bias load or force will elongate the wire, and a phase change induced using heat or electricity will cause the wire to contract. As the material cycles, contracting as heat is applied and elongating as it cools, the actuator performs work, which could include pulling a release valve, lifting loads, or otherwise applying force. Using a wire to perform work has several advantages. At the forefront is its high work density, meaning it can generate a large amount of work for a relatively small footprint. Another benefit is its comparative silence by eliminating the need for noisy motors.
You can learn more about actuator wire here.
The possibilities for Nitinol feel practically endless. You can use the following information to learn more about shape memory Nitinol, and the markets we serve.
| Shape Memory Thermal and Mechanical Properties Table | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cold worked | Straight annealed | |||||||||||
| Product | Ingot As (°C) |
UTS (MPa) [ksi] |
Elongation (%) |
UTS (MPa) [ksi] |
Elongation (%) |
Active Af (°C) |
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| Notes | ||||||||||||
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All mechanical testing conducted at 22°C ± 2°C [71.6°F ± 3.6°F]. Our video library can help you learn about active Af testing using the Fort Wayne Metals Manual Method and test methods conforming to ASTM F2082, such as LVDT or the vision system. You can compare the two test methods by reading the whitepaper. Please note that a correlation study may be required to switch test methods on an existing part. |
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| NiTi #5 | ≥ 85 | 1310 [190] | > 3% | 1069 [155] | > 10% | ≥ 85 | ||||||
| NiTi #6 | 35 to 85 | 1310 [190] | > 3% | 1069 [155] | > 10% | 40 to 80 | ||||||
| NiTi #8 | 10 to 35 | 1517 [200] | > 3% | 1103 [160] | > 10% | 22 to 40 | ||||||
Nitinol finds uses in many places, not limited to the medical field. While we have a wealth of knowledge on Nitinol as it pertains to medical devices, we also know our way around industrial applications such as actuators.
Our Nitinol experts are happy to help you find the right material for your application. Contact us to find out what Nitinol can do for you.