PiezoElectric Transducer Input Power

Question

Hi All,

I'm new to piezoelectric transducer, i read certain article & i found pressure to electricity, very interesting,

but I've certain doubts, which i'm unable to find, so kindly help

1. Whats the Input Voltage/Current required for Piezoelectric Transducers (pressure to electricity).

2. Whats the minimum output & at what pressure i.e. whats the ratio of input pressure to output power i.e. formula for calculating the same.

3. Whats the frequency role in these devices.

Thanks in Advance

Ashish

jw0752 · Answer

Hi Ashish,

The piezo electric transducer is a crystal that makes its own electrical voltage when it is deformed by sound or any change in shape. There is no required voltage or current. If the change or vibration is small you can amplify it with an amplifier and you have a microphone or a phonograph cartridge.

The output is built into the design of the specific transducer. In the case of some igniters for lighters the voltage is high enough to jump a spark gap and trigger a flame. In other situations it may only produce a very small voltage. The electrical energy is only produced while the crystal is being deformed. Once you stop the movement the electricity also stops. Your article may have referred to pressure to electricity but what they meant to say is change in pressure to electricity.

Frequency means that we are producing a repeated flexing of the crystal. It relates to the amount of energy that we are putting into the crystal and directly relates to how much power the crystal produces as voltage and current. Bend the crystal 10 times a second and you will put out ten times as much power as you would if you only bent it once in a second.

I hope this helps.

John