Dissimilar laser welding of NiTi shape memory alloy and copper

This work is the first investigation of joining NiTi and copper. The successful Nd:YAG laser welding of NiTi to copper achieved in this work enables new methods of connecting shape memory alloys to electro-mechanical systems. Joints made with an optimum peak power of 2.2 kW accommodated pseudoelastic deformation of NiTi, proving their use with high strength actuators. Fracture occurred through the cross section of these defect-free joints. A lower peak power of 1.8 kW created weak joints with limited weld penetration of the copper sheet. This lack of bonding resulted in fracture occurring across the small disconnected joint areas. Joints made with a higher peak power of 2.6 kW had significant cracking in the fusion zone. Two regions of distinct Cu composition were found in the fusion zone, and cracking occurred at the interface between these regions because of their different physical properties. Failure initiated at this cracking and propagated through the fusion zone that had been embrittled by mixing with over 20 at.% Cu.