Piezoelectric Sensors and Transducers

Piezoelectric Sensors

A piezoelectric sensor converts a physical parameter, such as acceleration or pressure, into an electrical signal. In some sensors the physical parameter acts directly on the piezoelectric element; in other devices an acoustical signal establishes vibrations in the element and the vibrations are, in turn, converted into an electrical signal. Often, the system provides a visual, audible, or physical response to the input from the piezoelectric sensor

Piezoelectric Transducer

Piezoelectric transducers convert electrical energy into vibrational mechanical energy, often sound or ultrasound, that is used to perform a task.

Transducers that generate audible sounds afford significant advantages, relative to alternative electromagnetic devices -- they are compact, simple, and highly reliable, and minimal energy can produce a high level of sound. These 

Because the piezoelectric effect is reversible, a transducer can both generate an ultrasound signal from electrical energy and convert incoming sound into an electrical signal. Some devices designed for measuring distances, flow rates, or fluid levels incorporate a single transducer in the signal sending and receiving roles, other designs incorporate two transducers and separate these roles.characteristics are ideally matched to the needs of battery-powered equipment.

Piezoelectric transducers also are used to generate ultrasonic vibrations for cleaning, atomizing liquids, drilling or milling ceramics or other difficult materials, welding plastics, medical diagnostics, or for other purposes.