Triaxial Accelerometer, High Frequency Measurement and Temperature Stability Considerations

Abstract

Many applications such as operational, environmental, structural or durability testing require increasingly more triaxial IEPE accelerometers with higher frequency operation in the three orthogonal directions. The new, novel mounting for Kistler miniature PiezoStar® and Piezoceramic Triaxial cube accelerometer families offer a practical solution. Additionally, in certain applications that require ultra-low sensitivity temperature coefficient, Piezostar® offers a practical solution when piezoceramic sensors do not satisfy the application needs.

The seismic elements of these IEPE triaxial accelerometer families have inherent benefits resulting in high resonance frequency where the sensor design provides stud mounting for each orthogonal axis with threaded holes on three sensor faces. The calibration methodology will be reviewed supporting frequencies up to 20 kHz, without additional mechanical fixtures, which can impact precision measurements.

Ultra-low sensitivity temperature coefficient is achieved with PiezoStar® IEPE accelerometers and will be demonstrated as well as a comparison between more traditional quartz and ceramic sensing elements. PiezoStar® IEPE accelerometers provide less than 1.5 % sensitivity change between −55 °C and 165 °C, as well as inherent long term stability of a piezoelectric crystal.