Papers by Author: Thomas Grund

Abstract: Shape memory alloy (SMA) films enable the development of novel mechanically active microsystems as they provide large force and stroke in restricted space. The performance of SMA film actuators and sensors does not only depend on SMA material properties, but also requires a mechanically and thermally optimized design as well as a suitable fabrication technology being compatible to existing microsystems technologies. The paper gives an overview on the engineering aspects of SMA film actuators and sensors. These aspects are illustrated by selected examples such as bridge microactuators, microvalves and microscanners. The examples demonstrate the ongoing progress in the field, current limitations as well as existing opportunities for emerging new applications.

Abstract: A brief overview of existing methods of post-treatment of thermally sprayed coatings is given and the influence of mechanical and chemical as well as high-energy beam post-treatment methods on the coating microstructure formation and some exploitation properties is described. As a special example, the modification of thermally sprayed coatings on magnesium alloys using electron and laser beams and high-density irradiation of an infra-red beamer for the improvement of wear and corrosion resistance is presented.

Abstract: Thermal spraying is one of the most variable and diverse surface coating techniques concerning materials to be processed as well as possible geometries to be coated. The group of thermal spray processes covers a large parameter field to combine nearly each coating with each base material. Thermally sprayed coatings can be applied very evenly and therefore allow to be applied on final-shaped components. Otherwise, if further treatment or finishing is necessary, thermal spray coatings can be processed by grinding or even milling. Masking during the coating process permits the selective coating of specific surface parts or the application of required geometrically structures, e. q. conductor structures. The main application field of thermal spray coatings is the (combined) wear and corrosion protection of selected component parts.