Releasing systems for aerospace industry based upon Shape Memory Alloys: characterization of materials for actuators

However, it is considered convenient to replace this technique by others not requiring explosives (Non Explosive Actuators-NEA). This is mainly due to the necessity of reducing high-shock and vibrations induced levels, also avoiding the contamination of sensible instruments because of dust and gas release during explosion.

In addition, the avoidance of risks associated with storage and manipulation of explosives and the possibility of performing device retesting prior to final mounting are desirable qualities. Among NEA devices, those exploiting the singular mechanical behavior of Shape Memory Alloys (SMA) have reached commercial maturity. In this study, the performance of a NEA device that uses the mechanical stress generated upon reverse transformation of a mechanically constrained SMA actuator (constrained recovery effect) to generate the controlled fracture of a notched bolt is analyzed.