This 0.005' Flexinol® Actuator Wires, also known as shape memory Nitinol, are a nickel - titanium alloy. It's a one - foot - long piece that can flex and contract when a specific heat or current is applied. These wires are ideal for linear actuators, replacing small motors or solenoids. When the Flexinol® is in its martensitic form (low - temperature and weaker), it can be easily formed and bent into various shapes. But when you apply an electrical current of about 320mA or heat it to around 100C, it turns into austenite form (high - temperature and stronger) and quickly recovers its previous shape with great force. You can even anneal it at about 500C using an industrial furnace or a simple lighter to set it into a new shape. Once the current or heat is applied again, it will return to that new shape. These are the 'HT' type wires. Key features include a length of 305mm, a diameter of 0.127mm, a required current of 320mA for the austenite form, a pull force of 0.49lbs, and a resistance of 1.9 ohms/inch. There are also a datasheet and a product video available.
Using your Flexinol shape memory actuator wire is easy. First, when the wire is cool, you can bend and shape it however you like. This is its martensitic form. To make it return to its previous shape, apply an electrical current of about 320mA or heat it to around 100C. If you want to set it to a new shape, you can anneal it at about 500C using an industrial furnace or a lighter. Just be careful when using a lighter to avoid any burns. As for maintenance, keep the wire dry and away from sharp objects that could cut it. Also, don't over - heat it beyond the recommended temperatures as it might damage the wire's shape - memory properties. If you have any questions, refer to the datasheet or watch the product video for more details.
