Blocked-force characteristics of Terfenol-D transducers

The output force-strain relationship typical of the performance of Terfenol-D transducers under varied operating conditions is examined to study transducer blocked-force characteristics. The design and construction of a transducer for testing under controlled thermal, magnetic and mechanical load conditions are described. Results of compression tests at various applied magnetic fields and two initial mechanical stress states are used to generate load-lines and the blocked-force characteristics of the transducer. Comparisons of the transducer's force and strain output are made with published data. This test data is also used to examine the variability in Young's modulus with applied magnetic field, strain and stress.