Design of a magnetostrictive (MS) actuator

Abstract: Several advanced technologies are introduced in automotive applications. Higher energy density and dynamic performance are demanding new and cost-effective actuator structures. Magnetostriction (MS), change in shape of materials under the influence of an external magnetic field, is one of the advanced technologies. Good understanding of specific design constrains is required to define and optimize a magnetostrictive actuator. This paper presents parametrical analysis with magnetic simulation of a magnetostrictive actuator. Proposed actuator has been designed, and the performance has been evaluated on experimental rig. Strain, elongation of the shaft, of 1000ppm at 10A and a blocked force over 4500N has been achieved with shaft of 8mm diameter, made of Terfenol-D. Furthermore, the effect of pre-stress of the Terfenol-D shaft has been evaluated experimentally. The study shows that excellent features can be obtained by magnetostrictive materials for many advanced applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]