Patent ID: 6300855
Filing Date: 2001-10-09
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
A method of converting magnetic energy into mechanical energy, the mechanical energy being in the form of a change of dimension in material, comprising the steps of:subjecting a magnetostrictive material of the formula Tb.sub.x Dy.sub.y Ho.sub.z Fe.sub.2-w to a change in magnetic field, wherein 0.24.ltoreq.x.ltoreq.0.28, 0.52.ltoreq.y.ltoreq.0.56, 0.13.ltoreq.z.ltoreq.0.22, x+y+z=1, and 0.ltoreq.w.ltoreq.0.20; andprestressing said magnetostrictive material at an operating range of stress for said magnetostrictive material by applying a compressive force of from about 5 to about 100 MPa to said magnetostrictive material.