Ultrafast Actuators with Magnetic Shape Memory Alloys

In this paper, we present the possibility to use magnetic shape memory alloys (MSM) for ultrafast actuator applications like fast switching pneumatic valves and circuit breakers. The first part of the paper introduces the aspects of the MSM technology which are relevant for ultrafast actuation applications. The second part describes a new ultrafast pneumatic valve based on a MSM actuator. In the third part of this paper a similar actuator for the application in a miniature circuit breaker is presented. Furthermore advantages of the MSM technology compared to conventional actuator solutions are described in this article.