Standardized SMA Test Methods for Aerospace Applications

The properties of SMAs employed as actuators have enabled a number of adaptable aero-structural solutions. However, there are currently no commonly accepted standardized test methods for shape memory alloy (SMA) materials when used as actuators and their transition to commercialization and production has been hindered. A collaborative and pre-competitive SMA specification and standardization effort has been initiated that is expected to deliver the first ever material specification and test standards for SMAs as employed as actuators for aviation applications. The team will deliver a set of agreed-upon properties to be included in future material certification specifications as well as the associated experiments needed to obtain them in a consistent manner. Essential for the success of this project is the participation of a number of organizations and individuals working in materials and processing development, application design, SMA component fabrication, and testing at the component and system level. Strong consensus among this diverse body of participants and the SMA research community at large will be needed to advance standardization concepts for universal adoption by the greater aerospace community.