On the selection of shape memory alloys for actuators

This paper presents a series of charts for the selection of shape memory alloys (SMAs) for actuators. It is based on performance indices with special reference to the unique features of SMA actuators. The three most popular polycrystalline SMAs are candidates of current study, namely, NiTi, CuZnAl and CuAlNi. More SMAs may be added in to give a complete picture. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.