3D finite element simulation for shape memory alloys

In this paper, a methodology based on three-dimensional (3D) finite element procedures is developed and used to simulate the superelastic behavior and the shape memory effect (SME) of shape memory alloys (SMAs). A 3D constitutive model for SMAs is implemented as a user defined subroutine for the finite element code ABAQUS. The kinetic law based on an experimentally defined stress-temperature phase diagram provides the phase fraction history for a given loading path and specified initial value of the martensite fraction. With a simple 3D model, we demonstrate the capability of the proposed methodology to simulate the shape memory effect, pseudoelasticity and hysteresis behavior. This methodology provides a computational tool for the design of 3D actuators using SMAs.