On the Potentials of Shape Memory Alloy Valves

Shape memory alloys (SMA) can be utilized as thermal and electrical-activated drives for valve applications. By using the high actuation forces and medium strokes in combination with SMA intrinsic sensor functions, smart and versatile valve elements for multi-purpose applications can be designed. The sensoric functions, based on the change of the electrical characteristics of the SMA drive, allow to detect the system’s condition as well as the system’s fatigue. The paper systematizes the usability of the intrinsic sensor function with particular emphasis on service potentials. A methodical overview over the design-options of different applications is presented in the first part of the publications. This is followed by a methodical analysis of the potentials of SMA in service applications. Since the product development process is not only a mechanical engineering matter, the production and the service options according to such valves have to be regarded. Besides this publication presents an innovative production process based on a fused deposition production process (FDPP) of valves which contains the installation of SMA actuators during production. The publications present several demonstrator systems which have been produced with FDPP and analyzed in applications.