Muscle Wire - 0.012 Diameter (1 foot)

A one-foot (305 mm) length of 0.012" (0.30 mm) diameter Muscle Wire — a nickel-titanium shape memory alloy (Nitinol) that contracts when heated or when electrical current is applied. The wire transitions between a weaker, low-temperature martensitic form and a stronger, high-temperature austenite form.

In its martensitic state, the wire can be bent and formed into shapes. Applying approximately 1.5 A of current (or heating to ~100°C) causes it to revert to its memorised austenite shape with considerable force. The memory shape can be reset by annealing at ~500°C.

Key Features

• Shape Memory Alloy – Contracts and recovers shape when heated or energised
• High Pull Force – 2.83 lbs (1.28 kg)
• Low Activation Current – ~1.5 A for austenite transition
• Re-Programmable Shape – Anneal at ~500°C to set a new memory shape

Specifications

• Length – 305 mm (1 foot)
• Diameter – 0.30 mm (0.012")
• Activation Current – ~1.5 A
• Pull Force – 2.83 lbs
• Resistance – 0.31 Ω/inch

Ideal For

• Robotics and actuator projects
• Kinetic art and interactive installations
• Replacing small motors or solenoids

Resources

• Datasheet (PDF)