Ceramic transducers exhibit the property of crystals called the piezoelectric effect, where the solid produces a voltage (potential difference) in response to mechanical stress and vice-versa.
Piezo elements can be used indicate pressure or deflection, such as in strain gauges or scales. They can also pick up mechanical vibration, such as in a microphone. A high impact on a crystal can produce a high voltage - an effect exploited in some butane lighters.
Used as drivers, they can be used to make sound (piezo tweeters) or as mechanical actuators (micro-steppers, inkjet printers.)
Comments
Ceramic transducers exhibit the property of crystals called the piezoelectric effect, where the solid produces a voltage (potential difference) in response to mechanical stress and vice-versa.
Piezo elements can be used indicate pressure or deflection, such as in strain gauges or scales. They can also pick up mechanical vibration, such as in a microphone. A high impact on a crystal can produce a high voltage - an effect exploited in some butane lighters.
Used as drivers, they can be used to make sound (piezo tweeters) or as mechanical actuators (micro-steppers, inkjet printers.)
Links o' rama below.
Ceramic Transducer