Kistler Accelerometers

Accelerometers are used in every avenue of the dynamic test environment and Kistler has developed families of products covering this expansive range of applications. From ultra-low motions encountered in wafer fabrication technology to shock spectra reconstruction experienced in pyrotechnic separation event studies and everywhere in between, an optimal sensor solution is available. Static events are captured with the K-Beam static and low frequency product offerings. Very high frequency activity is routinely measured using any of several miniature piezoelectric single-axis or triaxial types. Many sensing technologies including piezoceramic, natural quartz and variable capacitance approaches have been extensively explored and are employed as needed to accommodate the demands of the application.

Structural testing

Mechanical devices, assemblies, and constructions of all types are investigated using accelerometers to measure their dynamic response when subjected to a known input. The deformation pattern, when the specimen experiences resonance, can be computed from the measured data.

Known as “Experimental Modal Analysis” (EMA), this field of study often uses a member of the PiezoBeam family or Ceramic Shear family where their general characteristics have been adapted to accommodate most requirements of common tests. Typical highlighted features include high output from a low-weight sensor, ground isolated, and an inexpensive package providing an economical solution for large channel count application.

Aerospace and military 

Very demanding application are encountered in the military and aerospace industry where any error may present a life-threatening situation. This category also covers a tremendous range of applications and nearly all accelerometer product offerings have been used in these important investigations.

Flutter testing, rocket launch pad dynamics, aircraft EMA, ammunition investigations, helicopter rotor reactions, etc., are a few of the common measurements performed.

Automotive/transportation

Ride quality has been receiving tremendous attention in recent years. New vehicle designs are presenting less noise to the occupants and the subtle details of the intricacies of road/wheel interaction, bump & jar response, and the overall feel of the ride are important to even the common customer. The K-Beam family covers the low to mid frequency range of many investigations and the many piezoelectric offerings extend into the higher frequency areas of interest.

Civil engineering

Very low frequency activity is of interest when studying extremely large structures, such as bridges, buildings or dams. These specimens require DC capable accelerometers since most dynamic activity is in the very low frequency realm often in the range of a few hertz. The K-Beam product family is commonly used to measure vibration and acceleration in this arena.

Environmental stress screening

Computer components, automotive electronics, and miniature mechanical assemblies are often exposed to an aggressive life test or actual functional tests under extreme environmental conditions. This may involve multiple impact drop testing or wide range thermal cycling and many of the K-Shear product offerings have been tailored to survive and perform extremely well even under incredibly abusive conditions. The M5- and M8- suffixes provide extreme high and low temperature capabilities respectively while the shear shock Types 8742 and 8743 survive after numerous exposure to high-level cyclic inputs.

Kistler piezoelectric sensor technology solutions

Most Kistler sensors incorporate a quartz element, which is sensitive to either compressive or shear loads. The sensor is connected to an electronic device for converting the charge signal into a voltage signal proportional to the mechanical force. The conversion is made either by means of a separate charge amplifier or an impedance converter with coupler, typically integrated into the sensor. Kistler relies mainly on the “Piezoelectic Theory” for measuring dynamic forces in assembly and testing.

Kistler offers a variety of sensor technologies: Capacitive, Charge, and Voltage (IEPE). Each offers unique application solutions  applications tailored to your specific needs.