Effect of Ageing on Shape Memory Effect and Transformation Temperature on Cu-Al-Be Shape Memory Alloy

Abstract

Cu-Al-Be ternary alloy are prepared by ingot metallurgy route. Thermal ageing of Cu-Al-Be shape Memory Alloy at different temperatures are carried out at various temperatures. The influence of ageing at a temperature above Af (Austenite phase finish temperature) was studied and time dependency of variation in the transformation temperature were determined. The formation of precipitates and their effects on the microstructure was studied by using OM, DSC and hardness measurements. The formation of precipitates varies the chemical composition of the alloys and thereby changes the shape memory Effect and Transformation temperature of the alloys. The investigation results are expected to benefit the applications of Cu-Al-Be SMA under different thermal conditions as a replacement of costly NiTinols.