Thermomechanical Simulation of Shape Memory Alloys Using the Finite-Element-Method
Thermomechanical Simulation of Shape Memory Alloys Using the Finite-Element-Method
Overview of Material Models
SMA respond to changes in temperature and load through phase transformations. Their reliable design requires simulation models that realistically represent the complex thermomechanical material behavior.
The five models in the following table differ significantly in terms of parameterization effort and functional scope. While simple approaches capture the one-way effect, more advanced models also account for the two-way effect, functional degradation, plasticity, or partial transformations. The comparison shows which model is suitable for which research question and what experimental effort is required.
Simulation models for SMA are particularly relevant for multiaxial stress states and for interactions with other components, such as springs, SMA flexure sheets, additively manufactured SMA structures, stents, or fastening elements subjected to contact loads. Since analytical approaches quickly reach their limits in these cases, simulations enable a realistic assessment of transformation behavior, displacement, force, and fatigue.
Contact:
Dr.-Ing. Immanuel Voigt:
Email: immanuel.voigt@mb.tu-chemnitz.de
Phone: +49 (0)351 4772-2132
Relevant Links:
Fraunhofer IWU Website Shape Memory Alloys – Simulation
