Actuator applications with single-crystals of Cu-Zn-Al shape memory alloy

In the present work the use of single-crystals of Cu-Zn-Al Shape Memory Alloys (SMA) in actuator applications is analyzed. The actuator considered here, a device capable of doing work in response to temperature changes is based on a single-crystal nucleus of a Cu-Zn-Al SMA coupled to a conventional spring that represents the load to be displaced A special experimental stage was designed for performing controlled thermal cycles under load In this way the effects of different parameters (cycle number, friction, temperature range, load level) on the actuator behavior can he studied From the results obtained, the use afa single-crystal of an SMA in a thermostatic device is analyzed and compared with the commercial wax actuator performance.