形状記憶合金熱エンジンの研究 : 出力特性試験と開発の課題

Abstract

In order to develop the shape memory alloy heat engine, basic output power characteristics of three types of heat engines are investigated. As a shape memory alloy, the Ti-Ni alloy wire with an outer diameter 0.75mm is used. The heat engines employed were the twin crank engine, offset crank engine and simple pulley engine. The results are summarized as follows : (1) The output power of engines increases with the hot water temperature, (2) The range of rotational speed where the output power is maximized is wide, (3) Specific output power is 1-3 W/g, (4) The maximum output power increases with the number of wire loops of shape memory alloy. Problems in development of the shape memory alloy heat engine are fatigue strength, welding and corrosion resistance of the material as well as efficiency and mechanism of the engine.