Key Features

• Shape Memory
• Actuator Wire
• Superior Corrosion Resistance
• Non Magnetic
• Miniature Foot print

Product Description

Flexinol(R) Nitinol Actuator Wire: Flexinol(R) is a trade name for shape memory alloy actuator wires. These small diameter wires (made from nickel-titanium) contract like muscles when they are electrically driven. This ability to flex or shorten is a characteristic of certain alloys, which dynamically change their internal structure at certain temperatures. The idea of reaching higher temperatures electrically came with the light bulb, but instead of producing light, these alloys contract by several percent of their length when heated and can then be easily stretched out again as they cool back down to room temperature. Like a light bulb both heating and cooling can occur quite quickly. The contraction of Flexinol(R) actuator wires when heated is opposite to ordinary thermal expansion, is larger by a hundredfold, and exerts tremendous force for its small size. Movement occurs through an internal solid state restructuring in the material that is silent, smooth, and powerful. This effect can be used in many ways. A safe assumption is that any task requiring physical movement in a small space with low to moderate cycling speeds is something that most likely will be better done with actuator wires. Many of the tasks currently being done with small motors or solenoids can be done better and cheaper with Flexinol(R) actuator wires. Since the actuator wires are small in comparison to the work they perform, new products and improved design on existing products are readily accomplished. As a rule of thumb the material will contract with approximately 25,000 pounds per square inch. Sample Applications: Actuators, Latches, Micro Circuit Breakers, Temp. Control, Micro Clutches, Medical/Surgical Instrumentation, Prosthetic limbs, Motor protectors, Camera manipulators, Ultra light remote controls, Robotic limbs, Micro pumps, Blood pressure test valves, Automotive: Door locks - Mirror controls - Environmental controls, etc.