Title :
Shape memory alloys for power connector applications
Author :
Öberg, Ake ; Nilsson, Sylvia
Author_Institution :
ABB Corp. Res., Vasteras, Sweden
Abstract :
A study evaluating the use of a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) as an active force actuator in power connectors has been conducted. The work consisted of three parts: 1) A selection of a suitable candidate for evaluation; 2) Laboratory testing of relevant properties of the selected SMA; 3) Experimental verification of the proposed function. The findings of the work are the following: 1) A commercial CuAlNi Shape Memory Alloy was selected to be tested as an active force actuator in bolted power connectors; 2) The use of such a SMA washer as an active force actuator significantly lowers and stabilises the contact resistance in a bolted connector, in accordance with the predictions
Keywords :
aluminium alloys; contact resistance; copper alloys; electric connectors; intelligent actuators; nickel alloys; shape memory effects; CuAlNi; SMA washer; active force actuator; bolted power connector; contact resistance; shape memory alloy; Actuators; Assembly; Connectors; Contacts; Fasteners; Heating; Laboratories; Shape memory alloys; Temperature; Testing;
Conference_Titel :
Electrical Contacts, 1993., Proceedings of the Thirty-Ninth IEEE Holm Conference on
Conference_Location :
Pittsburgh, PA
Print_ISBN :
0-7803-1270-8
DOI :
10.1109/HOLM.1993.489680
