What role does the piezoceramic disk play in the ultrasonic transducer?
The piezoceramic disk plays a central role in an ultrasonic transducer. It enables the basic function of the transducer: the conversion of electrical signals into mechanical vibrations and vice versa.
How the piezoceramic disk works:
- Piezoelectric effect: The piezoceramic disk is based on the piezoelectric effect. This means that certain materials, such as piezoceramics, generate electrical charges when mechanically deformed. Conversely, these materials generate mechanical vibrations when exposed to an electric field. We use precisely this effect in our ultrasonic transducer.
- Generation of ultrasonic waves: If an electrical voltage is applied to the piezoceramic disk, it deforms due to the piezoelectric effect. This rapid deformation leads to mechanical vibrations. They are emitted as ultrasonic waves into the surrounding medium (e.g. air, water or human tissue).
- Reception of ultrasonic waves: Conversely, the piezoceramic disk can also receive ultrasonic waves. When an ultrasonic wave hits the disk, it deforms mechanically, which generates an electrical voltage in the disk. This voltage is then evaluated as an electrical signal.
Significance in ultrasonic transducer:
- Signal conversion: The piezoceramic disk is the heart of the ultrasonic transducer, as it enables the direct conversion of electrical signals into ultrasonic waves and vice versa.
- Efficiency and frequency control: The thickness and material of the piezoceramic disk determine the frequency of the ultrasonic waves generated, which is decisive for the transducer’s areas of application.
- Sensitivity and precision: The quality of the piezoceramic influences the sensitivity of the transducer. High-quality piezoceramics can convert very small mechanical changes into electrical signals, which is important for accurate measurements.
Overall, the piezoceramic disk is the core component of an ultrasonic transducer, which makes it possible to generate and receive sound waves with high precision. Without it, the functionality of an ultrasonic transducer would not be possible.
What does this mean for us at SECO?
We source our piezoceramic transducers from selected suppliers, preferably locally and with above-average quality standards. Our main supplier manufactures a material specially specified for us. This is characterized by a high degree of efficiency as well as minimal geometric and electrical tolerances.
Our product managers (from left) Stefan Schneider, Ralph Schenderlein, Lisa Loidolt and our Managing Director Eugen Gergert visiting our supplier for highest quality piezo technology PI Ceramic in Lederhose, Thuringia. We would like to thank them for decades of trusting cooperation and millions of piezo elements of the highest quality – Made in Germany.