Scientific test setup for investigation of shape memory alloy based elastocaloric cooling processes

• Development of a scientific test setup to investigate NiTi based elastocaloric cooling processes.
• Variation of the control variables: strain rate, maximum strain and contact time (duration of the heat exchange).
• A significant influence of the control variables on the cooling process was detected.
• The homogeneity of the elastocaloric effect influences the performance of the cooling system.

Solid state refrigeration processes, such as magnetocaloric and electrocaloric refrigeration, have recently shown to be promising alternatives to conventional compression refrigeration. A novel solid state elastocaloric refrigeration process using the large latent heats of shape memory alloys (SMA), specifically NiTi, could also hold potential in this field. This paper describes the development of a scientific test setup to investigate shape memory alloy based cooling processes. The setup allows for an independent control of the different variables, e.g. strain, strain rate etc., which influence the process functions. An integrated multi sensor system is used for synchronized measurement of mechanical and thermal quantities. First experiments demonstrate the control options of the test platform and the effect of each control variable on the elastocaloric cooling process.