Shape memory alloy sealing components
US6053992A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 30, 1997 |
| Grant date | Apr 25, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 30, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF02M2200/8061
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A mechanism that uses the shape recovery of a shape memory alloy for sealing openings or high pressure passages. A component made of a shape memory alloy can be processed in its martensitic state to have a reduced dimension smaller than that of the opening or the passage to be sealed. Upon heating, shape recovery takes place which is associated with the reverse crystalline phase transformation of martensite. The shape recovery of the previously processed shape memory alloy component yields a diameter which is greater than that of the opening or passage to be sealed. The shape recovery provides the dimensional interference and force required for sealing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.