Novel C-Shaped Shape Memory Alloy Connectors for Vacuum Flanges: Modeling and Tests

Abstract Shape memory alloy (SMA)-based fasteners and connectors represent a class of successful SMA components that are increasingly used especially in marine or aerospace applications. The present paper aims to investigate novel C-Shaped for room-temperature vacuum pipes within particle accelerators. proposed exhibit the two-way shape effect (TW-SME), so they can generate significant axial recovery forces be dismounted by temperature variations. Proper thermo-mechanical training procedures were performed tune mechanical functional response make them suitable investigated application. both free constrained conditions assessed strain gauge extensometer tests as well finite element analyses based on constitutive model, recently developed authors, accounting TW-SME plasticity. Comparison between experimental numerical results validates model. Moreover, give useful, important information terms transformation temperatures, generated capabilities.