---------------------- Unique Characteristics and Advantages of Quartz Force sensors

Unique characteristics of quartz force sensors.

Stiffness –

With a modulus of elasticity between 11 and 15 x 10 6 psi, quartz is nearly as stiff as solidsteel. All quartz force sensors are assembled with stacked quartz plates and stainless steel housings. This stiff structure offers an extremely fast rise time enabling response to, and accurate capture of, rapid force transient events.

Durability –

Tough, solid-state construction with no moving or flexing components ensures a linear response, with durability and longevity for even the most demanding, repetitive cycling applications.

Stability –

The measurement characteristics of quartz are unaffected by temperature, time and mechanical stress, allowing for exceptionally repeatable and uniform measurement results. Dynamic Sensor Applications Actuation

Small Changes Under Large Load –

Balancing
Quartz force sensors can measure small force fluctuations that are superimposed upon a large, static pre-load. The static load is ultimately discharged by the measurement system. Biomechanics Cold Forming Coining Composites Testing

Overload Survivability –

Compression
Quartz force sensors can typically be used for conducting measurements that may exceed twice their normal range, and can even survive as much as 15 times their rated capacity. Crash Testing Crimping Crushing Cutting Advantages of quartz force sensors. Drop Testing

Small Size –

Ejecting
A typical 1/2 inch diameter quartz force sensor has a linear range through 10k lb (45k N). Endurance Testing Fatigue Testing

Quasi-static Calibration –

Fracture Analysis
Since accurate, static measurements are possible for a short duration (quasi-static response), many quartz force sensors can be calibrated using known weights as reference standards. This also permits uncomplicated field calibration. Grinding Impact Machinery Mounts Machinery Testing

Temperature Insensitivity –

Materials Testing
Quartz has no pyroelectric output, i.e. output due to temperature change. A quartz force sensor, however, can exhibit a temperature response, under quasi-static conditions, due to forces transferred to the crystals by the thermal expansion and contraction of the steel housing. For this reason, the sensor should be insulated from temperature transients when used for quasi-static measurements. Matrix Printheads Modal Analysis Penetration Studies Press Monitoring Punching Operations Quasi-static Forces

High Frequency Response –

Reaction Force
Stiffness and small size provide high frequency response, permitting accurate capture of short-duration, impulse force data associated with an event such as a metal-to- metal impact. (For information on ICP Recoil Robotics Sports Therapy
® Stamping
strain sensors, see page 1.67) Strain Tensile Testing Tension Vibration testing Wire Bonding 1.2 1.2
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