Characterization of Vibration Damping in Nitinol Samples Manufactured through Selective Laser Melting

This research explores the potential of 3d-printed Nitinol samples to mitigate transmitted vibration levels, aiming at the development of interface dampers for space applications. The study investigates the correlation between the measured damping behaviour of Nitinol samples, measuring the loss factor with the half-power bandwidth approach in free-constrained conditions to avoid unwanted and unpredictaqw02ble dissipation given by the constraints. Among the influencing parameters, sample printing directions and post-additive heat treatments have been investigated. Results showed that by carefully tailoring the heat treatment process, it is possible to modulate the damping properties of Nitinol parts. This opens possibilities for engineers to design and manufacture lightweight aerospace components with optimised structural properties, minimising the overall mass and enhancing vibration characteristics. Moreover, this study paves the way for further research to optimise the Selective Laser Melting (SLM) process and post-treatment procedures for Nitinol alloys.