Shape Memory Alloy Tension/Compression Device for Seismic Retrofit of Buildings

A tension/compression device is developed for applications as bracing elements in buildings. The device is designed to allow Nitinol forms, such as helical springs or Belleville washers, to be used in compression. The device allows both overall extension (tension) and compression while subjecting the Nitinol to an optimum deformation mode. It is possible, due to the versatility of the design, to adjust the force and stroke of the device without changing the overall configuration. This new device is subjected to a cyclic loading protocol that tests the Nitinol element’s ability to recover large deformations. The effect of different Nitinol configurations and a cyclic loading history are evaluated in the study. The results show that Nitinol helical springs produce good recentering and damping behavior while Nitinol Belleville washers show good potential to form the basis for a Nitinol damping device.