The following symbols and typographic conventions are used in this user manual:
CAUTION
Dangerous situation
If not avoided, the dangerous situation will result in minor injuries or damage to the
equipment.
Actions to take to avoid the situation.
NOTICE
Dangerous situation
If not avoided, the dangerous situation will result in damage to the equipment.
Actions to take to avoid the situation.
INFORMATION
Information for easier handling, tricks, tips, etc.
Symbol Meaning
1.
2.
Action consisting of several steps whose sequential order must be observed
p. 5 Cross-reference to page 5
RS-232 Labeling of an operating element on the product (example: socket of the
1.4 Figures
For better understandability, the colors, proportions, and degree of detail in illustrations can
deviate from the actual circumstances. Photographic illustrations may also differ and must not
be seen as guaranteed properties.
Action consisting of one or several steps whose sequential order is irrelevant
Intended Use .................................................................................................................................. 5
General Safety Instructions............................................................................................................ 5
2.1 Intended Use
The PL0xx/PDxxx is intended to be used in an environment which is free of dirt, oil, and
lubricants.
In accordance with its design, the PL0xx/PDxxx is intended for integration into a mechanical
system and for the following applications:
Positioning of loads
Dynamic positioning
Vibration damping
Force generation
The operator is responsible for a standards-compliant integration of the PL0xx/PDxxx into the
overall system.
The motion of the PL0xx/PDxxx takes place on one axis. When mounting the actuator without
applying a preload, observe the maximum tensile stress capacity (p. 52).
For operation of the PL0xx/PDxxx, suitable electronics that provide the required operating
voltages are required. The electronics are not included in the scope of delivery of the
PL0xx/PDxxx. We recommend the use of suitable electronics (p. 12) from PI.
2.2 General Safety Instructions
The PL0xx/PDxxx is built according to state-of-the-art technology and recognized safety
standards. Improper use can result in personal injury and/or damage to the PL0xx/PDxxx.
Only use the PL0xx/PDxxx for its intended purpose, and only use it if it is in a good
working order.
Read the user manual.
Immediately eliminate any faults and malfunctions that are likely to affect safety.
The operator is responsible for the correct installation and operation of the PL0xx/PDxxx.
Temperature changes and compressive stresses can induce charges in the PL0xx/PDxxx piezo
actuator. After disconnection from the electronics, the piezo actuator can remain charged for
several hours. Touching the live parts of the PL0xx/PDxxx can result in minor injury from electric
shock.
Do not touch the piezo actuator unless it is discharged (p. 40).
When handling the piezo actuator, wear powder-free nitrile or latex gloves.
Keep the piezo actuator short-circuited (p. 41) when it is not connected to the
electronics.
Do not disassemble the piezo actuator.
The system into which the piezo actuator is integrated (e.g., housing or surrounding mechanical
system) must be connected to a protective earth conductor. If the protective earth conductor is
not or not properly connected, touching the system in which the piezo actuator was
incorporated can lead to minor injury from electric shock in the case of a malfunction.
Before start-up, connect the overall system to a protective earth conductor in
accordance with the applicable standards.
Do not remove the protective earth conductor during operation.
If the protective earth conductor has to be temporarily removed (e.g., for
modifications), reconnect the overall system to the protective earth conductor before
starting it up again.
During operation, the piezo actuator carries voltages of up to 100 V. Touching the piezo
actuator can lead to minor injuries from electric shock.
Do not touch the piezo actuator during operation.
Before start-up, insulate the piezo actuator electrically from the surrounding
mechanical system to prevent direct or indirect contact with live parts. Observe the
clearances and creepage distances required for the operating voltage, and observe the
standards applicable to your application.
Mechanical forces can damage or misalign the PL0xx/PDxxx.
Avoid impacts that affect the PL0xx/PDxxx.
Do not drop the PL0xx/PDxxx.
Prevent torques and lateral forces on the PL0xx/PDxxx.
Do not use metal tools during installation.
Do not exceed the maximum permissible stress and load capacities according to the
range, OD 16 mm × ID 8 mm × TH 2.5 mm, stranded wires
All models are available with optional solderable contacts. The product numbers of the models
with solderable contacts end with the number 0 (e.g., PL022.30 or PD050.30).
3.2 Product View
The figures serve as examples and can differ from your model. The models with stranded wires
(not shown) have a red stranded wire at the positive electrode (+) and a black stranded wire at
the negative electrode (-).
Figure 1: PL0xx: Example product view
The positive electrode does not cover the entire side surface.
2: Negative electrode: Connection for ground (-)
The negative electrode covers the entire side surface.
3: Ceramic end surface (passive PZT)
Arrow: Expansion direction of the piezo actuator when a positive voltage is applied
Figure 2: PDxxx: Example product view of a model with inner hole
1: Negative electrode: Connection for ground (-)
2: Ceramic end surface (passive PZT)
3: Positive electrode: Voltage connection (+)
4: Point for identifying the positive electrode
5: Inner hole (depending on model type)
Arrow: Expansion direction of the piezo actuator when a positive voltage is applied
3.3 Product Labeling
Before delivery, each PL0xx/PDxxx is vacuum-packed in an ESD protective bag that prevents the
piezo actuator from being charged during transport. Larger actuators are additionally packed in
tubes to protect them against breakage.
Every ESD protection bag has a sticker with the following information:
Labeling Description
PL055.30 Product number (example), the digits after the period refer to
16CEP0653128979 Batch number (example), individual for each PL0xx/PDxxx
PL0xx/PDxxx Piezo actuator according to order (p. 9)
PZ264EK Short instructions for unhoused and encapsulated PICMA® piezo actuators
3.5 Suitable Electronics
To operate a PL0xx/PDxxx, you need electronics. The device is selected depending on the type
of application. The table below lists the suitable devices.
To order, contact our customer service department (p. 47).
Before selecting electronics, calculate the power requirements of your application
(p. 39).
3.6 Accessories
Product number Description
P-890.10 Cable for piezo voltage, LEMO connector/open end, 1 m
P-890.20 Cable for piezo voltage, LEMO connector/open end, 5 m
The P-890.xx cable is for connecting the PL0xx/PDxxx to a low-voltage piezo amplifier with a
single-pole LEMO socket. The cable is soldered on the actuator side.
PL0xx/PDxxx are PICMA® multilayer piezo actuators for static and dynamic applications.
PICMA® actuators have all-ceramic insulation and their performance and lifetime are therefore
far superior to conventional actuators. The ceramic insulation layer protects the monolithic
piezoceramic block against humidity or failure due to increased leakage current. In this way, an
especially high reliability is achieved even under extreme ambient conditions.
Destruction of the piezo actuator due to contamination!
Contamination on the surface of the PL0xx/PDxxx can result in the destruction of the piezo
actuator by electric flashovers during operation.
When handling the piezo actuator, wear powder-free nitrile or latex gloves.
Prevent the piezo actuator from coming into contact with conductive liquids (e.g., finger
sweat) and conductive materials (e.g., metal dust).
If the piezo actuator has been accidentally contaminated, clean it in accordance with the
instructions in "Cleaning the PL0xx/PDxxx" (p. 43).
1. Unpack the PL0xx/PDxxx with care.
2. Compare the contents with the items listed in the contract and the packing list.
3. Inspect the contents for signs of damage. If there is any sign of damage or missing parts,
contact PI Ceramic immediately.
4. Keep all packaging materials in case the product needs to be returned.
Connecting the PL0xx/PDxxx to the Electronics .......................................................................... 29
5
Installation
In this Chapter
General Notes on Installation ...................................................................................................... 17
Connecting a Piezo Actuator with Stranded Wires (Only Models Without Stranded Wires) ...... 22
Mounting the PL0xx/PDxxx .......................................................................................................... 26
Applying a Preload ....................................................................................................................... 27
Applying the Load ........................................................................................................................ 28
5.1 General Notes on Installation
CAUTION
Dangerous voltage and residual charge in piezo actuators!
Temperature changes and compressive stresses can induce charges in the PL0xx/PDxxx piezo
actuator. After disconnection from the electronics, the piezo actuator can remain charged for
several hours. Touching the live parts of the PL0xx/PDxxx can result in minor injury from
electric shock.
Do not touch the piezo actuator unless it is discharged (p. 40).
When handling the piezo actuator, wear powder-free nitrile or latex gloves.
Keep the piezo actuator short-circuited (p. 41) when it is not connected to the electronics.
Do not disassemble the piezo actuator.
that does not leave any scratches on the surface of the piezo actuator (e.g., conductive
NOTICE
Destruction of the piezo actuator due to rapid discharging!
If the piezo actuator is not connected to the electronics, it must be short-circuited in order to
prevent the piezo actuator from becoming charged during temperature changes and
compressive stresses. Unsuitable short-circuiting leads to an abrupt contraction of the piezo
actuator due to excessively fast discharging. Abrupt contraction can destroy the piezo actuator.
As soon as you have removed the piezo actuator from the conductive original packaging,
short-circuit it as follows:
− Models with stranded wires: Twist the stranded wires of the piezo actuator with each
− Models without stranded wires: Affix a suitable, conductive aid on the piezo actuator
Only disconnect the short-circuit connection of the piezo actuator if this is necessary for
installation or operation.
If the piezo actuator is not short-circuited:
− Ensure adequate protection against touching live parts.
− Discharge the piezo actuator in a suitable way before short-circuiting again (p. 40).
other.
rubber).
NOTICE
Destruction of the piezo actuator due to excessively high loads!
Excessive loads can destroy the PL0xx/PDxxx.
Do not exceed the maximum compressive/tensile stress capacity (p. 52).
NOTICE
Damage to the piezo actuator due to excessive preloading!
Excessive preloading can mechanically depolarize the piezo actuator. Depolarization damages
the piezo actuator.
Only apply preloads that are just as high as necessary.
Do not exceed the maximum preload (p. 52).
Destruction of the piezo actuator due to mechanical overload!
Torques and lateral forces can destroy the piezo actuator.
Avoid torques and lateral forces on the piezo actuator.
Make sure that the center of load of the moving system is on the motion axis of the piezo
actuator.
Avoid an uneven load distribution by using suitable structures or guide elements (e.g., ball
tips or flexure guides).
Establish contact over as large an area as possible on the end surfaces of the piezo
actuator, and select opposing surfaces with a flatness of only a few micrometers. Minor
unevenness can be compensated by full-surface gluing, for example.
NOTICE
Damage due to tensile stress on the stranded wires of the piezo actuators!
Impermissible forces on the stranded wires (if applicable) can damage the piezo actuator.
Avoid tensile stress on the stranded wires of the piezo actuator.
NOTICE
Damage due to scratches on the surface of the piezo actuator!
The surface of the piezo actuator is scratch-sensitive. Scratches on the surface can cause
damage to the piezo actuator.
Do not use metal tools to install the piezo actuator.
Install the piezo actuator so that the ceramic insulation and the end surfaces of the piezo
actuator are not scratched during installation and operation.
NOTICE
Heating up of the PL0xx/PDxxx during operation!
The heat produced during operation of the PL0xx/PDxxx can affect your application.
Install the PL0xx/PDxxx so that your application is not affected by the dissipating heat.
INFORMATION
Ground loops can occur when the piezo actuator is installed in a housing that is grounded via
the shield of the connecting cable of the piezo actuator as well as a separate protective earth
conductor.
If a ground loop occurs, contact our customer service department (p. 47).
Piezo actuators may only be loaded axially. Moreover, piezo actuators should be preloaded
(p. 27) mechanically in order to avoid tensile stress. The following figures are to help you avoid
mounting errors.
Figure 3: Prevention of lateral forces and torques
Figure 4: Prevention of torques
Figure 5: Prevention of tensile stresses by means of a mechanical preload
Figure 9: Mechanical or thermal loads electrically charge the piezo actuator. Mount only when short-
circuited.
Page 26
5 Installation
5.2 Connecting a Piezo Actuator with Stranded Wires (Only Models
Without Stranded Wires)
The electrodes can make contact in one of the following ways:
Soldering the stranded wires (p. 22)
Gluing the stranded wires (p. 24)
If your application permits it, we recommend using models that already have stranded wires.
5.2.1 Soldering Stranded Wires to a Piezo Actuator (Only Models Without
Stranded Wires)
NOTICE
Damage due to overheating of the piezo actuator during soldering!
Heat spreading from the piezo actuator that rises above the Curie temperature leads to
depolarization of the piezo ceramic. Depolarization can damage the piezo ceramic. Long and
repeated soldering processes can cause damage to the electrode.
The soldering temperature should not be any higher than necessary (max. 350 °C).
Make sure that the soldering time does not exceed one second.
Allow the solder point to cool down before resoldering.
NOTICE
Damage due to mechanical stress on the solder connection!
Mechanical stress on the solder connection due to moved stranded wires can damage the
piezo actuator.
Avoid tensile stress and shear forces on the solder connections.
The electrode marking is shown in the product view (p. 10).
Use a red stranded wire for the voltage connection (+).
Use a black stranded wire for ground (-).
Requirements
You have read and understood the general notes on installation (p. 17).
The PL0xx/PDxxx is discharged (p. 40) and short-circuited (p. 41).
Page 27
5 Installation
Tools and accessories
Suitable stranded wires that meet the applicable standards for the conditions of use
Suitable soldering iron
Suitable solder: Sn 95.5, Ag 3.8, Cu 0.7
Suitable flux according to one of the following standards:
− DIN EN 29454, part 1, category 1.1.3 or 1.2.3
− ANSI J-STD-004, flux type ROL0
Suitable cable tools
Soldering stranded wires to a piezo actuator (only models without stranded wires)
1. Prepare the stranded wire according to the following illustrations:
Twisting
Tinning
Shortening to 2 mm
2. Apply the flux to the tinned end of the wire and the intended soldering point of the
electrode.
3. Hold the stranded wire flat with the tinned end on the solder joint.
4. Coat the tip of the soldering iron with a small amount of solder.
5. Hold the tip of the soldering iron at the soldering point on the tinned end of the
stranded wire for a maximum of one second so that the solder flows and a flat or pointshaped solder connection results after soldering.
Figure 10: Solder connection [2] of stranded wire [1] and electrode [3]
6. Repeat steps 1 to 5 for the second stranded wire.
7. Remove flux residue according to the instructions in the section "Cleaning the
PL0xx/PDxxx" (p. 43).
Page 28
5 Installation
5.2.2 Gluing Stranded Wires to a Piezo Actuator (Only Models Without
Stranded Wires)
CAUTION
Risk of electric shock when stranded wires become detached from the piezo actuator!
In the case of unsuitable adhesives or improper gluing, the adhesive connection can fail,
especially in the case of mechanical stress, causing stranded wires to become detached from
the actuator. If stranded wires detach from the piezo actuator during operation, touching the
stranded wires or other conductive parts that come into contact with them can cause minor
injuries from electric shock.
Use only suitable adhesives (e.g., electrically conductive, silver-filled epoxy resin adhesive)
to glue the stranded wires to the piezo actuator.
Use only suitable stranded wires that meet the applicable standards for the conditions of
use.
Make sure that the adhesion surfaces are dry, dust-free, and grease-free.
Avoid mechanical stress on the adhesive connections.
If stranded wires become detached during operation, switch off the electronics
immediately.
NOTICE
Damage due to mechanical stress on the adhesive connection!
Moving stranded wires can cause mechanical stress on the adhesive connection and damage
the piezo actuator.
Avoid tensile stress and shear forces on the adhesive connections.
NOTICE
Short-circuit damage due to improper gluing!
Improper gluing (e.g., unfavorable spreading of the electrically conductive adhesive) can cause
the piezo actuator and the connected electronics to be damaged by short-circuits.
When gluing the stranded wires to the electrodes, make sure that the adhesive does not
spread beyond the glueing point at any time.
INFORMATION
For optimum electrical contacting, it is recommended to use the following materials:
PL0xx/PDxxx piezo actuators are glued to metal or ceramic surfaces.
CAUTION
Risk of electric shock and short-circuit from incorrect gluing of the piezo actuator!
The electrodes of the piezo actuator extend to the ceramic end surfaces. If the piezo actuator
is glued to a conductive surface without insulation of the electrodes, the surface can be
electrically live during operation. Touching the surface or conductive parts connected can
result in minor injuries from electric shock. The electronics can be damaged by a short-circuit.
If the piezo actuator is to be glued to a conductive surface, insulate the surface from the
electrodes of the piezo actuator by suitable means:
− Place a nonconductive insulating layer on the surface
− Cut the surface to clear the entire area around the electrode
Requirements
You have read and understood the general notes on installation (p. 17).
The PL0xx/PDxxx is discharged (p. 40) and short-circuited (p. 41).
You have read and understood the user information of the manufacturer of the
adhesive.
Tools and accessories
Level surface that is dry, dust-free, and grease-free
The tensile stress capacity of piezo actuators is relatively low. It is therefore recommended to
mechanically preload the piezo actuators in the application, either externally in the mechanical
structure or internally in a housing.
Requirements
You have read and understood the general notes on installation (p. 17).
The PL0xx/PDxxx is discharged (p. 40) and short-circuited (p. 41).
Tools and accessories
When installing in a housing: Suitable housing
Suitable guide elements
When creating the preload with a spring:
Suitable preload spring with the following characteristics:
− The stiffness of the preload spring does not exceed 10 % of the stiffness of the piezo
actuator. This is to minimize the displacement loss. If the stiffness of the preload
spring is equal to that of the actuator, the free displacement drops by half.
The stiffness of the piezo actuator can be calculated as follows:
kA Actuator stiffness
F
Blocking force*
max
ΔL
Nominal displacement*
0
* See data table (p. 49).
− With highly dynamic applications:
The resonant frequency (p. 49) of the preload spring exceeds that of the piezo
actuator.
Applying a preload
Apply the preload near the axis within the core cross section of the piezo actuator.
Short-Circuiting the PL0xx/PDxxx ................................................................................................ 41
6
Start-Up and Operation
In this Chapter
General Notes on Start-Up and Operation .................................................................................. 31
Determining the Operating Parameters ...................................................................................... 35
Operating the PL0xx/PDxxx ......................................................................................................... 39
Discharging the PL0xx/PDxxx ....................................................................................................... 40
6.1 General Notes on Start-Up and Operation
CAUTION
Dangerous voltage in piezo actuators during operation!
During operation, the piezo actuator carries voltages of up to 100 V. Touching the piezo
actuator can lead to minor injuries from electric shock.
Do not touch the piezo actuator during operation.
Before start-up, insulate the piezo actuator electrically from the surrounding mechanical
system to prevent direct or indirect contact with live parts. Observe the clearances and
creepage distances required for the operating voltage, and observe the standards
applicable to your application.
CAUTION
Risk of electric shock if the protective earth conductor is not connected!
The system into which the piezo actuator is integrated (e.g., housing or surrounding
mechanical system) must be connected to a protective earth conductor. If the protective earth
conductor is not or not properly connected, touching the system in which the piezo actuator
was incorporated can lead to minor injury from electric shock in the case of a malfunction.
Before start-up, connect the overall system to a protective earth conductor in accordance
with the applicable standards.
Do not remove the protective earth conductor during operation.
If the protective earth conductor has to be temporarily removed (e.g., for modifications),
reconnect the overall system to the protective earth conductor before starting it up again.
If sufficient cooling is not possible: Make sure that the hot PL0xx/PDxxx and its surrounding
ronments that increase the electrical conductivity can lead to the
CAUTION
Burning from hot surface!
The surface of the PL0xx/PDxxx and the surrounding area can heat up during operation.
Touching the PL0xx/PDxxx and surrounding parts can result in minor injuries from burning.
Cool the PL0xx/PDxxx so that the temperature of its surface and surrounding parts does
not exceed 65 °C. Do not use liquids for cooling. If liquid cooling is to be used, contact our
customer service department (p. 47).
parts cannot be touched.
If sufficient cooling and protection against contact are not possible: Mark the danger zone
in accordance with the legal regulations.
NOTICE
Destruction of the piezo actuator due to electric flashovers!
Using the PL0xx/PDxxx in envi
destruction of the piezo actuator by electric flashovers. Electric flashovers can be caused by
moisture, high humidity, liquids, and conductive materials (e.g., metal dust).
Avoid operating the PL0xx/PDxxx in environments that can increase the electrical
conductivity.
Only operate the PL0xx/PDxxx within the permissible ambient conditions and
classifications (p. 53).
Prevent the piezo actuator from coming into contact with liquids. If liquid cooling is to be
used, contact our customer service department (p. 47).
Protect the piezo actuator against moisture by means of hermetic sealing or the supply of
dry air.
If the PL0xx/PDxxx is to be operated in a special gas atmosphere, contact our customer
service department (p. 47).
NOTICE
Destruction of the piezo actuator by dynamic forces!
During dynamic operation, dynamic forces can occur that cancel the preload of the piezo
actuator. Operation without a preload can destroy the actuator.
Do not exceed the maximum compressive/tensile stress capacity (p. 52).
Observe the notes in "Determining the Operating Parameters" (p. 35).
In an arrangement with unilateral clamping, the value must be halved. For loaded piezo
NOTICE
Destruction of the piezo actuator due to excessive operating frequencies!
An excessive operating frequency can cause thermal and mechanical overloading that destroys
the piezo actuator.
Select the operating frequency so that the following conditions are met:
− The operating frequency of the piezo actuator does not exceed one third of the
− The dynamic forces occurring during operation do not exceed the maximum
Reduce the voltage at high operating frequencies to minimize the heating of the piezo
actuator.
If your application involves the operation of a piezo actuator which is not clamped on both
sides, contact our customer service department (p. 47).
resonant frequency. The resonant frequencies specified in the data tables (p. 49
) apply
to operation of the piezo actuator when it is unloaded and not clamped on both sides.
actuators that are clamped on one side, see "Calculating the Maximum Operating
Frequency of the Loaded Piezo Actuator" (p.
37).
tensile/compressive stress capacity of the piezo actuator (see "Calculating the Forces
that Occur During Dynamic Operation" (p. 38) and "Compressive/Tensile Stress
Capacity and Preload" (p. 52)).
NOTICE
Damage due to steep edges in the control signal!
If the actuator does not have a preload, steep edges in the control signal can trigger strong
dynamic forces which damage the piezo actuator. Steep edges can occur, for example, when
digital wave generators are switched on.
Avoid steep edges in the control signal on actuators with low preload.
NOTICE
Damage after reconnecting due to a charged piezo actuator!
The piezo actuator can remain charged if its connecting cable is pulled out of the electronics
during operation. Reconnecting a charged piezo actuator to electronics during operation can
cause a mechanical impulse that will damage the piezo actuator.
Do not pull the connecting cable of the piezo actuator out of the electronics during
operation.
If the connecting cable of the piezo actuator is accidentally pulled out of the electronics during
operation:
Switch off the electronics before you reconnect the piezo actuator.
Reduced lifetime due to permanently high voltage and high air humidity!
The permanent application of a high static voltage to piezo actuators leads to a considerable
reduction in the lifetime of the piezo ceramic. This applies in particular to operation in a humid
environment.
When the PL0xx/PDxxx is not in use but the electronics remain switched on to ensure
temperature stability: Set the piezo voltage to 0 V on the electronics.
If possible: Limit the maximum operating voltage during continuous operation.
Reduce offset voltages to a minimum.
Protect the piezo actuator against moisture by means of hermetic sealing or the supply of
dry air.
Make sure that the air humidity in the vicinity of the PL0xx/PDxxx does not exceed the
relative humidity specified in "Ambient Conditions and Classifications" (p. 53).
NOTICE
Operating voltage excessively high or incorrectly connected!
Operating voltages that are too high or incorrectly connected can cause damage to the
PL0xx/PDxxx.
Do not exceed the operating voltage range (p. 51) for which the PL0xx/PDxxx is specified.
Operate the PL0xx/PDxxx only when the operating voltage is properly connected; see
"Connecting the PL0xx/PDxxx to the Electronics" (p. 29).
If you have accidently applied the operating voltage with the wrong polarity, contact our
customer service department (p. 47).
NOTICE
Destruction of the piezo actuator due to overheating!
During the operation of the piezo actuator, dielectric losses that are converted into heat
energy occur in the piezo ceramic due to ferroelectric polarization processes. The resulting
heat can overheat and destroy the piezo actuator, especially in dynamic operation.
Adjust the operating voltage, operating frequency, and/or operating time so that the
maximum operating temperature of the piezo actuator is not exceeded; see "Ambient
Conditions and Classifications" (p. 53), "Maximum Ratings" (p. 51), and "Determining the
Operating Parameters" (p. 35).
Cool the piezo actuator. Do not use liquids for cooling. If liquid cooling is to be used,
Limiting factors for the operation of the piezo actuator:
Resonant frequency:
The resonant frequency of the piezo actuator serves as a basis for calculating the operating
frequency, which must not exceed one third of the resonant frequency. The resonant
frequencies given in the data tables (p. 49) apply to operation of the piezo actuator when it
is unloaded and not clamped on both sides. In an arrangement with unilateral clamping, the
value has to be divided in half.
For loaded piezo actuators that are clamped on one side, see "Calculating the Maximum
Operating Frequency of the Loaded Piezo Actuator" (p. 37).
Maximum compressive/tensile stress capacity (p. 52):
The mass of the load to be moved, the preload, and the operating frequency of the piezo
actuator must be selected so that the dynamic forces occurring during operation do not
exceed the maximum tensile/compressive stress capacity of the piezo actuator. See
"Calculating the Forces that Occur During Dynamic Operation" (p. 38).
Maximum permissible operating temperature of the piezo actuator (p. 53):
The greater the operating frequency, the operating voltage (peak-to-peak), and the
capacitance of the piezo actuator, the greater the thermal power generated in the piezo
actuator. The operating frequency, operating voltage and operating time must be selected
so that the maximum permissible operating temperature of the piezo actuator is not
exceeded. For the maximum permissible operating frequency without cooling, see column B
of the table in "Maximum Ratings" (p. 51).
When cooling measures are used, the limit values for the operating frequency, operating
voltage and operating time increase.
Peak and average output current of the electronics (p. 12) used:
The electronics must be selected so that it fulfills the following requirements:
− The electronics can provide the required current. See "Calculating the Power
Requirement for Sinusoidal Operation" (p. 39).
− The output current of the electronics does not exceed the maximum power
consumption of the piezo actuator. See "Maximum Ratings" (p. 51).
− The control signal of the electronics does not have steep edges. See "General Notes
In the following calculation, the maximum permissible operating temperature of the piezo
6.2.2 Calculating the Effective Mass
Figure 12: Calculation of the effective mass of a unilaterally clamped piezo stack actuator without load
(left) and with additional load (right).
1. Determine the mass m of your piezo actuator.
2. Determine the additional load M.
3. Calculate the effective mass m
of the unloaded piezo actuator and m
eff
' of the loaded
eff
piezo actuator using the formulas in the figure above.
6.2.3 Calculating the Maximum Operating Frequency of the Loaded Piezo
Actuator
INFORMATION
actuator is not taken into account. During operation without cooling, the maximum operating
temperature may already be exceeded when the operating frequency is still below the limit
value calculated in the following.
For the maximum permissible operating frequency without cooling, see column B of the
The PL0xx/PDxxx must be discharged (p. 40) and short-circuited before demounting (e.g.,
before cleaning and transportation of the PL0xx/PDxxx) as well as for modifications.
Requirements
You have read and understood the general notes on installation (p. 17).
You have discharged the PL0xx/PDxxx and disconnected it from the electronics.
Tools and accessories
If no open stranded wires are accessible on the piezo actuator: Suitable conductive aid
for short-circuiting the piezo actuator that does not scratch the surface of the piezo
actuator (e.g., conductive rubber)
Short-circuiting the PL0xx/PDxxx
If bare stranded wires are accessible on the PL0xx/PDxxx:
Twist the stranded wires of the discharged piezo actuator with each other.
If no bare stranded wires are accessible on the PL0xx/PDxxx:
a) If necessary, let the PL0xx/PDxxx cool down.
b) Affix a suitable, conductive aid on the discharged piezo actuator that does not
scratch the surface of the piezo actuator (e.g., conductive rubber).
Cleaning the PL0xx/PDxxx ............................................................................................................ 43
inutes at
7
Maintenance
In this Chapter
General Notes on Maintenance ................................................................................................... 43
7.1 General Notes on Maintenance
The PL0xx/PDxxx is maintenance-free.
7.2 Cleaning the PL0xx/PDxxx
NOTICE
Destruction of the piezo actuator due to electric flashovers!
If the piezo actuator comes into contact with liquids, it can be destroyed by electric flashovers.
Before cleaning the PL0xx/PDxxx:
Ensure that the PL0xx/PDxxx is discharged (p. 40) and short-circuited (p. 41).
After cleaning the PL0xx/PDxxx:
Dry the PL0xx/PDxxx completely in a drying cabinet (recommended duration: 30 m
40 °C).
Requirements
The PL0xx/PDxxx is discharged (p. 40) and short-circuited (p. 41).
The PL0xx/PDxxx is disconnected from the electronics.
Cleaning the PL0xx/PDxxx
Touch the piezo actuator only with powder-free nitrile or latex gloves.
Do not use acetone and do not use water for cleaning.
When necessary, clean the surfaces of the PL0xx/PDxxx with a lint-free cloth that is
slightly dampened with a mild cleanser (e.g., isopropanol or ethanol).
depolarized due to
overheating or reverse
polarity
Piezo actuator moves in
the opposite direction to
that specified when
voltage increases
If the problem that occurred with your system is not listed in the table above or cannot be
solved as described, contact our customer service department (p. 47).
PL0xx/PDxxx piezo actuators are designed for the operating data specified in the table below.
Additional information on the maximum ratings table
Maximum operating frequency without load, without considering thermal aspects,
column A:
The values apply to unilaterally clamped piezo actuators and are calculated as follows: A
third of the resonant frequency of the unloaded piezo actuator (operation when not
clamped on both sides) divided by two.
Maximum operating frequency without load, considering thermal aspects, column B:
In order to prevent the maximum permissible operating temperature from being exceeded,
the operating frequency of the unloaded, uncooled piezo actuator must not exceed the
specified frequency when the operating voltage is 120 V peak-to-peak. In the case of
smaller amplitudes of the operating voltage and/or the use of cooling measures, higher
operating frequencies are possible.
Maximum power consumption:
Power consumption of the unloaded, uncooled piezo actuator that is operated at a voltage
of 120 V peak-to-peak with the operating frequency from column B of this table.
* The letter x in the product number of the piezo actuator stands for the model:
1: Models with stranded wires
0: Models without stranded wires
10.1.3 Compressive/Tensile Stress Capacity and Preload
Piezo ceramic withstands a pressure of up to 250 MPa but starts to depolarize at significantly
lower compressive loads. Since stacked piezo actuators are also made of different materials
(piezo ceramic, metallic electrodes), the mechanical load capacity does not depend solely on
the strength of the ceramic material. Consideration must be given to additional parameters
such as slenderness ratio, bending, tilt and homogeneity of the force application.
Maximum power
consumption
Considering
thermal aspects
The tensile stress capacity of piezo actuators is just 5 to 10 % of the compressive load capacity.
It is therefore recommended to mechanically preload the actuators. The preload should be
chosen only as high as necessary.
Compressive/tensile stress capacity and preload of the PL0xx/PDxxx
Type of mechanical stress PL0xx/PDxxx*
Maximum compressive load capacity 30 MPa
Maximum tensile stress capacity without preload 2 MPa**
Recommended preload for dynamic operation 15 MPa
Maximum preload for constant force 30 MPa
* 1 MPa corresponds to a pressure of 1 N per square millimeter of the base area of the piezo
actuator. Dimensions see data table (p. 49).
** Depends on the strength of the glued connections (p. 26)
In accordance with EU law, electrical and electronic equipment may not be disposed of in
EU member states via the municipal residual waste.
For disposal, observe the international, national, and local rules and regulations.
In order to fulfil the responsibility as the product manufacturer, PI Ceramic GmbH offers the
environmentally correct disposal of PI products made available on the market after
August 13, 2005, without charge.
Any product from PI Ceramic that is to be disposed of can be sent free of shipping costs to the
following address:
An EU Declaration of Conformity was issued for the PL0xx/PDxxx in accordance with the
following European directives:
RoHS Directive
The applied standards certifying the conformity are listed below.
RoHS: EN 50581
If an electrical operating device is designed to be integrated into another electrical operating
device: The operator is responsible for standards compliant integration of the electrical device
into the overall system.