Piezoceramics in the automotive industry

Power converter

1. Level sensors (oil and fuel)

Sensors

2. Accelerometers
3. Power generation for tire pressure sensors
4. Knock sensors
5. Level sensors (oil & fuel)
6. Parking aid

Level sensors (oil and fuel)

In this application, the piezoceramic vibrates at a high frequency of 1 MHz to 3 MHz. Thus, the piezoceramic works in two phases, a first phase in which it emits an ultrasonic wave into the liquid and a second phase in which the piezoelectric transducer receives the waves and then calculates the distance between the bottom of the tank and the surface of the liquid. This can replace the dipstick mechanism in cars, for example for oil.

Available versions: Round discs

Acceleration sensors (wheel balancer)

Pressure variations can be signaled by a force applied to a disk-shaped piezoceramic sensor plate.

This means that any imbalance on a car's wheels can be detected and quantified in seconds, and the appropriate counterweights can be positioned.

Available designs: Round discs, rectangular plates or rings

Knock sensors

A knock sensor is attached to the engine block, consisting of a piezoceramic ring and a contact electrode.

The ceramic piece generates an electrical signal that corresponds to the vibrations of the engine. If knocking occurs due to a lower octane rating or a change in operating conditions, this is detected by the vehicle's electronics and allows an adjustment to be made, thus reducing fuel consumption.

Finishes: Discs: Rings or round discs

Help with parking

A piezoceramic transducer works in two phases, sending an ultrasonic pulse to an obstacle and receiving the signal in a second phase and calculating the distance to the obstacle.

Finishes: Round discs, some with circumferential metallization