IEPE (Integrated Electronics Piezoelectric) accelerometers are widely used in many fields. They work well with NI data acquisition cards, which makes them popular choices for various measurement tasks. To choose and use these accelerometers correctly, you need to know their main technical specifications. Let’s take a closer look at them.
1. Sensor Sensitivity
Sensor sensitivity is one of the most important features of an accelerometer. When you buy an IEPE accelerometer, the manufacturer usually gives a standard value in the product manual. For example, “50.1mV/g” is a common value. But remember, this value is measured at a certain frequency, like 80Hz or 160Hz. It tells you how much electrical signal the sensor sends out when it senses an acceleration of 1g. This helps you understand the sensor’s readings.
2. Measurement Range
It’s important to pick an accelerometer whose measurement range matches the input range of your data acquisition card. Suppose a device can measure up to 100g, and the data acquisition card can handle voltages from -5V to 5V. A sensor with a sensitivity of 50mV/g is a good fit. Why? Because 5000mV (the full voltage of the card) divided by 50mV/g equals 100g. This way, the sensor can measure all the way up to the maximum without losing data quality.
3. Frequency Range
The frequency range shows the frequencies at which the sensor can work accurately, usually within 5% of the real value. The sensor doesn’t work the same way at all frequencies. Some frequencies might give stronger or weaker signals. So, if you’re measuring complex vibrations, you need to know this range well.
4. Resonant Frequency
Every IEPE accelerometer has its own resonant frequency. You should make sure the sensor doesn’t work near this frequency. For example, if the resonant frequency is higher than 35KHz and your working frequency is 10KHz, that’s a good gap. Working near the resonant frequency can make the readings wrong and unreliable.
5. In – band Resolution
In – band resolution means the smallest change in acceleration that the sensor can detect within its working frequency range. If you need to measure very small vibrations, like in precision machines, a sensor with high in – band resolution is a must. It can “see” tiny changes that other sensors might miss.
6. Non – linearity
Non – linearity tells you how much the sensor’s output doesn’t match a perfect straight – line relationship with the input acceleration. A non – linearity of 1% or less is great. It means the sensor gives consistent results. Reducing non – linearity errors helps get accurate data.
7. Transverse Sensitivity
Transverse sensitivity is about how the sensor reacts to vibrations from the side (not the main direction it’s meant to measure). The “transverse sensitivity ratio” compares this side reaction to the main reaction. A lower ratio is better because it means the sensor is less affected by side vibrations, giving more accurate readings.
IEPE accelerometers are delicate devices. Don’t drop them or hit them hard, as this can break them. When installing, make sure they are firmly and correctly placed. By understanding these specifications and using the sensors properly, you can make them work well and last longer in different situations.
At DabeySensor, we are dedicated to providing high – quality sensors, including IEPE accelerometers. Our company has years of experience in the sensor industry, with a team of professionals who are committed to R & D, production, and sales. We offer a wide range of sensors that meet various application requirements, and our products are known for their reliability and accuracy.
If you are looking for IEPE accelerometers or other sensor solutions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Visit our website to explore our product catalog, or get in touch with our customer service team for personalized advice and quotations. Let us help you find the perfect sensor for your project.