High Temperature Ultrasonic Transducer and Detection System (190)
The University of Dayton Research Institute has developed an ultrasonic transducer that is capable of operation at temperatures exceeding 1100°C. The active element in the transducer is a polycrystalline ceramic film which has no known Curie point. It is similar to quartz in that it is structurally piezoelectric and does not require poling.
Tests conducted by UDRI have demonstrated the transducer's capability to continuously emit ultrasound at temperatures above 900°C. Additional data show the transducer material is capable of functioning for extended periods at temperatures exceeding 1150°C. Production transducers are expected to operate above 1200°C. Besides having superior high temperature capability, the transducer material has a very high dielectric breakdown strength. Excitation pulses exceeding 700 volts have been applied without breakdown occurring. Operation of the transducer in molten aluminum proved its ability to withstand harsh environments.
UDRI anticipates that this ultrasonic transducer technology will fulfill many sensing needs. In addition to use at elevated temperatures, this material is a strong candidate for high frequency ultrasonic transducers, as the deposition of very thin films is easily done. The piezoelectric ceramic used in the sensor also shows promise for applications requiring radiation-hardened sensors. To date, ultrasonic transducers in the 10-100 MHz range have been produced and tested.
UDRI anticipates applications for the transducer in the following areas:
- Nuclear reactor integrity monitoring
- Petrochemical refining and well monitoring
- Metal production, casting, and forming technologies
- Polymer production processes
- Gas turbine engine health monitoring
- Elevated temperature flow measurement
- High frequency ultrasonics
U.S. Patent No. 5,886,456 awarded March 23, 1999.
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