Piezoelectric Vibration Sensor Module

A piezoelectric sensor is a device that uses a piezoelectric effect to measure the changes in pressure, acceleration, temperature, strain, or force by converting them to an electrical charge.

Working principle

When a force is applied to a piezoelectric material, an electric charge is generated across the faces of the crystal. This can be measured as a signal or voltage proportional to the pressure.

Material Used

Two main sensing materials are used for piezoelectric sensors:

• Piezoelectric ceramics (such as PZT ceramic)
• Single-crystal materials (such as quartz).

The sensitivity of ceramic materials is superior to that of natural single-crystal materials. but their high sensitivity degrades over time.

Specifications

There are two types of piezoelectric sensor based on the connection design:

• Lead type
• Pin type

Their specifications are listed as:

Advantages of Piezoelectric Sensor

• One of the main advantages of piezoelectric sensors is their ruggedness. This makes them suitable for use in a variety of harsh environments.
• Piezoelectric sensors can be used at high temperatures. They can work up to 1,000ºC.
• They are low-power devices since the output signal is generated by the piezoelectric element itself.
• The sensing element of a piezoelectric sensor is insensitive to electromagnetic interference and radiation.
• Piezoelectric sensors can be easily made using inexpensive materials

Applications of Piezoelectric Sensor

• They can be used in a wide range of industrial and aerospace applications where they’ll be exposed to high temperatures and pressures.
• They are frequently used for measuring dynamic pressure, for example in turbulence, blast, and engine combustion. These all require fast response, ruggedness and a wide range of operations.
• Their sensitivity and low power consumption make them useful for some medical applications.