Power ultrasonic transducers consist of multiple components, with piezoceramic rings forming their core. The assembled system generates and amplifies >> ultrasonic waves and then transmits them into the target medium. The resulting pressure changes in the liquid medium cause cavitation, where bubble formation and collapse create local pressure and temperature pulses as well as microjets.
In industry, the generated energy is used, for example, for ultrasonic cleaning and ultrasonic welding of plastics. In medical technology, high-power ultrasonic transducers are employed in dental cleaning, surgical scalpels, and in vitro diagnostics.
The individual components of the transducer can be specifically modified to optimize the technical specifications for the desired application. FEM programs are available to enable fast and efficient development.
Specifications
With more than 30 years of expertise in the development and production of piezoceramics, PI Ceramic offers end-to-end service extending from the selection of the suitable material through to the development of customized, application-based components.
The dimensions and specifications of the power ultrasonic transducers can be customized within defined limits. Feasibility is evaluated based on the provided requirements or dimensions.
| Dimensions [mm] | Limitation due to piezo ring diameter ≤ 50 mm |
| Resonant frequency f [kHz] | Depending on design, >20 kHz |
| Resonant impedance I [Ω] | Depending on design |
| Maximum displacement (peak-to-peak) App [µm] | Depending on design, material, and resonant frequency |
| Maximum power consumption P [W] | ≤4000 (at 20 kHz, noncontinuous operation) |
| Quality factor Qm | Depending on material and geometry |
| Piezoceramics | >> Piezoceramic rings are used to generate high-power ultrasound. |
| Piezo material | We offer various ferroelectric hard PTZ materials. A material overview can be found >> here, and the corresponding datasheets can be found >> here. |
| Electronics | Customized solutions can be developed depending on feasibility. |
| Options | In addition to the configuration shown, custom designs can be created, for example:
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| Applications | Piezoceramic power ultrasonic transducers are suitable for use in a wide range of industrial and medical fields. Examples of possible applications can be found >> here. |
Comparative Material Data
In addition to developing and manufacturing power ultrasonic transducers with rings made of lead zirconate titanate (PZT), PI Ceramic offers customized development of these transducers with lead-free piezoceramics.
Potassium sodium niobate (KNN) rings are not suitable for replacing PZT in any application. Nevertheless, transducers can be customized through modifications to meet the requirements of a broad range of applications. PI Ceramic combines its expertise in the development of lead-free materials with many years of experience in developing and manufacturing power ultrasonic transducers.
Comparative results of lead-free and lead-containing power ultrasonic transducers for use in in vitro diagnostics:
The >> material parameters are decisive in achieving the desired specifications of a power ultrasound transducer. The use of lead-free KNN rings reduces the displacement at the same power level and the same voltage. This can be compensated for with a higher drive voltage.
It should be noted that the higher loss factor with lead-free materials at the same displacement amplitude at the tip of the transducer leads to greater heat generation in the rings. In addition, greater self-heating occurs due to a higher power dissipation.
- Cell lysis
- Mixing liquids
- Ultrasonic scalpels
- Tissue aspiration
- Tartar removal
- Mesh nebulizers
- Phacoemulsification
Special applications have unique requirements!
PI Ceramic collaborates with customers to develop transducers that meet the requirements of their target applications.