On possibilities to accelerate engineering application of shape memory alloys

Abstract

It is analyzed why shape memory alloys (SMA), which could enhance reliability, safety, compactness and simplicity of technical objects are still used insufficiently. The reasons presented are as follows: lack of literature on SMA application and books on shape memory device (SMD) development; need of metaltophysicist support; lack of calculation technique for high-speed SMD and representative information on heating, on influence of harmful factors. Some ways to accclerate the process of SMD implementation are proposed: application concepts; publication of explanatory dictionaries «SMA Application» or «SMD», engineering design techniques and design estimates; inter-company catalogue of standard SMD.