Transducers

Transducers convert electrical signals into mechanical vibrations and thus generate ultrasonic waves that are used to precisely measure distances or flow rates. In practice, piezoelectric elements emit an ultrasonic pulse that is reflected by objects and then received again by the transducer. The time difference between the transmitted and received signal is used to calculate the distance. This technology is particularly indispensable in industrial sensor solutions, level gauges or process monitoring. Transducer devices with a high bandwidth and short pulse times ensure high resolution and repeat accuracy.

As a distributor, ROTIMA offers a wide range of such devices, including those from Audiowell and APC International. These partners supply reliable, durable transducers that are optimally adapted to different media such as air, water or oil. Precise adaptation to the operating environment and measurement requirements is crucial for the performance of ultrasonic measurement technology.

Transducers for industrial applications are available in various designs in order to optimally adapt to mechanical, electrical and acoustic requirements. Common variants are piezoelectric discs, ring elements, sandwich transducers or fully encapsulated modules with integrated electronics. Air transducers usually have a compact design with a defined sound cone, while power transducers often consist of several ceramic discs with metallic end pieces. Composite structures increase mechanical stability and electro-acoustic efficiency. APC International, for example, offers preloaded high-performance transducers for cleaning or atomization applications, while Audiowell supplies compact units for smart atomizers or sensor solutions.

ROTIMA provides support in selecting the right design, taking into account the application medium, frequency range, acoustic performance and mechanical interfaces. This allows transducer devices to be optimally integrated into existing systems and adapted to specific processes. Choosing the right design determines efficiency, service life and accuracy.

Transducers play a central role in medical technology - both in diagnosis and therapy. A classic example is the use of ultrasound transducers in imaging procedures such as sonography. Here, a transducer generates high-frequency sound waves that are reflected differently by the tissue. The data obtained from this enables internal organs to be imaged. Other areas of application include inhalation devices with a nebulization function, in which piezoelectric atomizers convert liquids into a fine mist. The removal of tartar using ultrasound or the fragmentation of kidney stones using lithotripsy are also based on high-performance transducer devices.

Modern transducers enable highly effective, contactless cleaning of sensitive components and surfaces. In ultrasonic cleaning systems, power transducers generate vibrations in the range of 20 to 120 kHz, which create cavitation in liquids. This creates microscopically small bubbles that implode and loosen dirt particles from even the finest structures. Compared to mechanical or chemical cleaning, the process is gentle, residue-free and also suitable for complex geometries. APC International offers specially developed composite transducers with high amplitude and low heat loss. Audiowell also supplies robust atomizers with high resistance to acids and alkalis.

Transducers for air and liquids differ in design, frequency range and area of application. Air transducers, such as those offered by APC International, usually operate in the range from 25 kHz to 300 kHz and are designed for measurement and detection tasks. They are used for object detection, distance measurement or level control, among other things. They are designed for high sensitivity, good sound propagation in air and compact installation. Power transducers, on the other hand, are more robust and designed for direct contact with liquids. They generate strong vibrations for cleaning, atomization or for use in medical technology. Composite piezoelectric ceramic elements with metallic end pieces and pre-stress mechanisms are often used here. These ensure high load capacity and a long service life. Audiowell and APC offer specialized solutions for both applications.