Shape Memory Effects in Cu–Al–Ni Single Crystals and Linear and Rotary Engines on Their Basis

The functional properties of rod-shaped Cu–Al–Ni single-crystal alloy with the shape memory effect (SME) have been studied experimentally. Tensile tests of the samples have been carried out in the conditions imitating the operation of load-bearing elements in linear and rotary SME engines in the cyclic regime. Basic principles of constructing and the operating conditions of engines with load-bearing elements based on these single crystals have been formulated from the results of investigation. Basic relations between the functional properties of the single-crystal alloy and the main parameters of the engines have been established. Such characteristics as the maximal rod stroke in the linear engine and the angle of rotation of the shaft in the rotary engine, the maximal generated force and moment, as well as the effective work done by the engines, have been analyzed.