Kinalco Information

Kinalco Inc. (Kinematic Alloy Company) is an MIT technology spin-out. We manufacture durable, high performing and inexpensive shape memory alloys (SMAs). SMAs have been around for decades. While promising to be a solution for a vast range of applications, past products have remained viable only for niche markets. Nickel-titanium alloys are expensive and unsuitable for many applications (poor electrical conductivity, cannot be easily joined). Copper SMAs promise to be cheaper and provide a valuable feature set (highly conductive, allow for easy joining, high superelasticity). However, so far the success of copper alloys has been hindered by two challenges: Typically processed copper SMAs (polycrystalline) break quickly, while high performing copper SMAs (single-crystal) are difficult and very expensive to manufacture. Our proprietary, patented, and patent-pending technologies allow us to manufacture high performing copper alloys inexpensively and in high volumes. Kinalco's alloys perform similarly to single-crystal-copper-SMAs, but at a fraction of the cost. Our alloys achieve high strain output for actuation and easy joining. Kinalco's technology will enable countless new SMA applications in industries such as: Orthodontics, orthotics, cables, connectors, sports equipment, device and industrial actuators, military equipment, medical appliances,...