4F30.60 Nitinol Engine
Concepts
Heat engine, shape-memory alloy
Overview
This is a heat engine consisting of a loop of Nitinol wire running on two pulleys. When the smaller pulley is dipped into a cup of hot water, the loop of wire rotates.
Details
Equipment
- [1] Thermobile
- [1] Mug
- [1] Kettle
- Water
Script
- Boil the water using an electric kettle.
- Pour boiling water into a mug.
- Wait for 2 to 3 minutes until the water temperature drops to about 80 °C.
- Immerse the brass wheel about half way into the hot water and observe that the wire rotates.
Additional Resources
References
- PIRA 4F30.60
- R.D. Spence and M.J. Harrison, "Demonstration Solid State Engine," AJP 52, 1144-5 (1984)
- A.D. Johnson and J.L. McNichols, "Comments on 'Demonstration Solid State Engine,'" AJP 54, 745-6 (1986)
- G.B. Kauffman and I. Mayo, "The Thermobile™: A Nitinol-Based Scientific Toy," J. Chem. Educ. 75, 313 (1998)
Disclaimer
- Don't attempt this at home!
- SFU is not affiliated with any external sites linked here and is not responsible for their content.
Last revised
- 2024
Technicals
- We have a loop comprised of a length of thread and a short length of wire on two pulleys. At high temperature, the wire "wants" to be straight. If the wire is wound onto one of the pulleys and let go, the loop will rotate until the wire is off the pulley. The operation is not continuous.
- Original construction: purchased. The manufacturer (Innovative Technology International, Inc. in Maryland) appears to have gone out of business.
Related AV
Related demos
If you have any questions about the demos or notes you would like to add to this page, contact Ricky Chu at ricky_chu AT sfu DOT ca.