INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Piezoelectric Element

Piezoelectric element converts electrical energy to mechanical vibrations for ultrasonic applications.

View Specifications

Component Specifications

Definition
A piezoelectric element is a specialized component that utilizes the piezoelectric effect to generate ultrasonic vibrations when subjected to alternating electrical signals. In ultrasonic transducer arrays, these elements are precisely arranged to create controlled acoustic fields for applications like medical imaging, industrial testing, and material processing. The element typically consists of polarized ceramic materials that expand and contract in response to voltage changes, producing high-frequency mechanical oscillations.
Working Principle
The piezoelectric effect causes certain materials to generate an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress (direct effect) or to deform when an electric field is applied (converse effect). In ultrasonic applications, the converse effect is utilized: alternating voltage causes the material to oscillate at ultrasonic frequencies, producing sound waves.
Materials
Lead zirconate titanate (PZT) ceramics, barium titanate, quartz crystals, or polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymers. PZT-5A or PZT-5H are common grades with high piezoelectric coefficients.
Technical Parameters
  • Impedance 50-500 Ohms
  • Dimensions Custom (typically 5-50 mm diameter, 0.5-5 mm thickness)
  • Capacitance 100 pF - 10 nF
  • Frequency Range 20 kHz - 10 MHz
  • Curie Temperature 150-350°C
  • Coupling Coefficient 0.6-0.7
Standards
ISO 18563-1, DIN EN 12668-1

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Piezoelectric Element.

piezoelectric element ultrasonic transducer PZT ceramic piezoelectric effect ultrasonic sensor NDT testing medical imaging transducer vibration generator Piezoelectric Element in Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Ultrasonic Transducer Array

A precisely arranged assembly of multiple ultrasonic transducers that generates and focuses ultrasonic waves for cleaning applications.

View Product Details

Sound Generator

An electronic or electromechanical device that produces audible warning signals as part of an alarm system.

View Product Details

Transducer Array

A structured arrangement of multiple transducer elements designed to emit and receive ultrasonic signals in a coordinated manner.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Mechanical cracking from overvoltage
  • Depolarization at high temperatures
  • Impedance mismatch causing energy loss
  • Aging effects reducing sensitivity over time
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Electrical overstress or thermal shock
Failure: Cracked ceramic element leading to complete loss of function
Mitigation: Implement voltage limiters, thermal management, and mechanical damping in housing design
Trigger: Moisture ingress or chemical exposure
Failure: Degradation of electrodes and reduced piezoelectric performance
Mitigation: Apply protective coatings (epoxy, parylene) and use hermetic sealing for harsh environments
Trigger: Mechanical fatigue from continuous operation
Failure: Gradual reduction in output amplitude and sensitivity
Mitigation: Design with safety factors, use fatigue-resistant materials, and implement periodic calibration

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Frequency tolerance ±2%, dimensional tolerance ±0.1 mm, capacitance tolerance ±10%
Test Method
Impedance analysis, laser vibrometry for displacement measurement, acoustic output testing per IEC 61161

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

Not customer reviews or live demand data. These dimensions support RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
4/5
Manufacturing capability
4/5
Inspection readiness
5/5
Supplier transparency
3/5

These scores are example evaluation dimensions, not real customer ratings, country-specific buyer feedback, or live inquiry activity.

Related Components

Main Processor
Central processing unit for industrial IoT gateways enabling real-time data processing and communication in manufacturing environments.
Memory Module
Memory module for Industrial IoT Gateway data storage and processing
Storage Module
Industrial-grade storage module for data logging and firmware in IoT gateways
Ethernet Controller
Industrial Ethernet controller for real-time data transmission in Industrial IoT Gateways.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main function of a piezoelectric element in ultrasonic transducers?

It converts electrical signals into high-frequency mechanical vibrations to generate ultrasonic waves for imaging, measurement, or processing applications.

How do temperature changes affect piezoelectric element performance?

Performance degrades near the Curie temperature, and thermal expansion can alter resonant frequencies. Temperature-stable formulations like PZT-8 are used in demanding environments.

Can piezoelectric elements be used for both transmission and reception of ultrasound?

Yes, they operate bidirectionally: generating ultrasound when energized (transmitter mode) and producing electrical signals when receiving ultrasound waves (receiver mode).

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

Data Basis

CNFX manufacturer profiles, technical classification, publicly available product information, and ongoing plausibility checks.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Request Manufacturing Insight for Piezoelectric Element

Piezoelectric Crystal Piezoelectric Sensor Elements