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PVDF Shock Gauges

Ktech manufactures PVDF transducer assemblies that can be used as an interface stress gauge like x-cut quartz and lithium niobate transducers. A cross-section of this basic gauge configuration is shown. Kel-F and Teflon are very good shock impedance matches to PVDF in specific stress ranges, and therefore this PVDF transducer effectively measures the stress at the interface between the PVDF and a test sample material. Modifications to this basic gauge provide for either an internally mounted current viewing resistor (CVR) or an R-C integrator.

Ktech's Standard Off-the Shelf Gauges

Exploded views of PVDF shock gauge showing PC Board for internally mounted CVR on integrator (KP135)

The dependence of polarization on stress and strain for Bauer-poled PVDF sensors has been determined in a series of precise plate impact uniaxial strain experiments performed by SNL, ISL and Ktech. This characterization is available with purchase of the PVDF gauges. Even at modest stresses, the current can be high. For example, at 0.3 GPa, the effective piezoelectric stress coefficient is is 0.5µc/cm2 and a 3x3-mm area gauge monitoring such a stress wave with a risetime of 5 ns generates a current of 10 amps and a di/dt of 2x10 9 amp/s. The physical attributes of PVDF gauges allow them to be used as in-situ gauges in many materials and material assemblies.

PVDF Shock Gauge Specifications and Price List

		Unit Price	Unit Price	Unit Price
Description	Ktech Model No.	1-10	11-49	50+
Teflon-Clad Shock Sensor with Copper Solder Tabs 3x3 Shock Sensor Standard, 50 micron (2 mil) Aluminized Teflon	KP126	$Call$	$Call$	$Call$
Sample-Response Gauge: O.D. 1.0 inch 3x3 Shock Sensor Standard, SMA Connector	KP134	$Call$	$Call$	$Call$
Sample-Response Gauge: O.D. 1.25 inch 3x3 Shock Sensor Standard, SMA Connector, Internal RC Integrator(s) or CVR(s)	KP135	$Call$	$Call$	$Call$
Charge-Mode Teflon-Clad Shock Sensor 3x3 Shock Sensor Standard, SMA Connector, Internal RC Integrator, and 1-ft Coaxial Cable with BNC Connector	KP136	$Call$	$Call$	$Call$

All prices include tax and F.O.B. Albuquerque. Shipping will be added to all orders. Prices are subject to change.

Special Orders

Special orders such as dimensional, electrical, or material variations on the above gauge assemblies are welcome. AP&T will manufacture gauges to your specifications, or will provide a test team to make the measurements, or will provide gauges and assist in data analysis and interpretation. Price quotations for special orders can be provided by contacting technical support.