Joining of NiTi-based shape memory alloys to Ti-6Al-4V

Routledge, David Philip (2013). Joining of NiTi-based shape memory alloys to Ti-6Al-4V. University of Birmingham. Eng.D.

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Abstract

NiTi-based shape memory alloys (SMAs) have been developed as high power density micro-actuators for small scale and/or light weight actuation systems; this provides opportunities for actuators to be installed in regions where conventional actuators are unattractive due to their size, weight or power consumption. SMA based actuators could be applied across a greater range of applications if the SMA that provides the force could be joined to other light weight engineering materials, such as Ti-6Al-4V.
The scope of this work is to describe the reasons why conventional fusion based welding and brazing procedures fail to provide strong joints between Ti-6Al-4V and NiTi-based SMAs, then detail a novel brazing method that can join these materials. This novel joining method involves using a localised heating method to braze the parent metals together. This localised brazing method prevents the shape memory properties from being compromised. The strength of the joints produced in this work have been related to their microstructure, which in turn have been related to the processing steps used to produce the joint. A study of the processing parameters was conducted to investigate the potential of this method as a large scale production joining method.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Eng.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Eng.D.

Supervisor(s):