What is Nitinol Wire?

Nitinol wire is a form of Nickel-Titanium alloy drawn into a fine, cylindrical form – often ranging from microns to millimeters in diameter. As a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA), it exhibits two powerful effects: the Shape Memory Effect and Superelasticity. These allow it to return to a programmed shape after deformation (thermally triggered) or flex significantly without permanent deformation (mechanically triggered).

Nitinol wire is lightweight, flexible, fatigue-resistant, and can be programmed to actuate precisely at specific temperatures – making it one of the most advanced functional materials available.

Key Properties

  • Thermoresponsive: Recovers original shape upon heating
  • Superelastic: Reversibly deforms under stress
  • Corrosion resistant: Ideal for demanding environments
  • Biocompatible: Safe for human body use
  • High cycle life: Millions of activation cycles possible

Applications of Nitinol Wire

Nitinol wire is used in:

  • Medical devices: Stents, guidewires, orthodontic archwires, surgical tools
  • Aerospace: Shape-shifting mechanisms, vibration dampers
  • Automotive: Thermal actuators for ventilation or safety systems
  • Consumer electronics: Compact actuators in wearable devices
  • Smart building components: Motorless movement in façade systems

How Ingpuls customizes Nitinol Wire

At Ingpuls, we control:

  • Wire composition for accurate transformation temperatures
  • Diameter and surface finish for integration into fine mechanical systems
  • Mechanical training for One-Way or Two-Way effects
  • Functional coating (optional) for insulation, bio-compatibility or friction management

Nitinol Wire FAQ

  • Can Nitinol wire lift weight or apply force?
    Yes. Depending on the diameter and training, Nitinol wire can generate significant force when activated thermally.
  • Can it be reused?
    Absolutely. Nitinol wire can perform millions of shape-change cycles without fatigue – especially when used within its design limits.
  • Can it be used in electronics?
    Yes. It is often used in smart devices and wearables for silent, compact actuation.
  • How is it activated?
    Most commonly by temperature increase, e.g., through Joule heating or ambient temperature shifts.

SMA Actuators at Ingpuls

Ingpuls specializes in shape memory actuators based on nickel-titanium alloys that generate mechanical motion through temperature changes.

Example products:

  • Wire actuators with programmed restoring force
  • Complete systems including sensors and electronics
  • Customized development and production

FAQ on Actuators

  • What is the difference between a motor and an actuator?
    A motor typically produces rotary motion – an actuator can generate any type of motion (linear, rotary, deforming).
  • What is an SMA actuator?
    An actuator powered by a shape memory alloy (e.g. Nitinol) – activated by heat, with no need for motors or gears.
  • How powerful are SMA actuators?
    They can deliver very high force in very small spaces – up to several hundred newtons, depending on geometry and temperature.
  • Where can I buy smart actuators?
    Directly from Ingpuls – from standard wires to fully customized actuator systems.