Nitinol wire is not just another metal—it’s a smart material. Its two most remarkable properties are shape memory and superelasticity, both stemming from a solid-state phase transformation. Understanding the science behind these phenomena reveals why Nitinol wire is so useful across industries. At Non-Ferrous Crucible Inc., we harness these properties to deliver reliable, high-performance products.
Shape memory refers to Nitinol’s ability to “remember” a pre-set shape. When cooled, the material is in a martensitic phase and can be easily deformed. Upon heating, it transforms to the austenitic phase and returns to its original shape. This makes Nitinol wire perfect for actuators and thermal triggers.
Superelasticity occurs near body temperature, where the material stays in the austenite phase but transforms to martensite under stress, then instantly recovers. This allows Nitinol wire to bend and flex far beyond the limits of traditional metals—ideal for guidewires and other flexible tools.
Precise control over transition temperatures and mechanical strength is key. At Non-Ferrous Crucible Inc., we offer Nitinol wire engineered for specific transformation temperatures, tensile strengths, and diameters.
This combination of intelligent behavior and durability is what sets Nitinol wire apart. We make sure our clients receive wire with optimal performance, whether for research or production.