High-Sensitivity, Single Axis K-Beam® MEMS Capacitive Accelerometer for Structural Analysis and NVH

Kistler, worldwide supplier of precision sensors, systems and instrumentation for the dynamic measurement of pressure, force, torque and acceleration, has introduced the Type 8315A…, a high-sensitivity, low-noise single axis MEMS capacitive accelerometer series. Incorporating the company's own K-Beam technology, the Type 8315A… is designed to measure acceleration and low-frequency vibration in the primary sensing axis within a variety of automotive, aerospace, OEM, R&D and general laboratory test applications.

The Kistler Type 8315A… series is available in six different models, with measurement ranges from ±2 … ±200 g and a frequency response of 0 … 1 000 Hz (5 %). The compact design provides a 1-inch (25,4 mm) footprint and incorporates a MEMS variable capacitance sensing element, consisting of a small inertial mass and flexure element sand-wiched between two parallel plates. As the mass deflects under acceleration, the capacitance between the element and plates changes, which is converted to a proportional voltage by the internal analog signal conditioner. The Kistler Type 8315A… series offers excellent thermal stability and reliable performance over an operating temperature range of –65… 250°F (–55 … 125 °C). It is powered by a single wide range supply between 6 and 50 VDC and has an internal voltage regulator. The accelerometer is shock rated to 6 000 g pk.

Models within the Kistler Type 8315A… series are offered with three different housing and electrical interface options (AC, TA, TB), which determine available output signal formats. The AC option features a lightweight, hard anodized aluminum housing with environmental sealing, integral ground isolation, epoxy seal and integral PVC cable, with a maximum operating temperature of 185 °F (85 °C). Available output signal formats for the AC option are bipolar at 0 ±4 V, single ended 2,5 V ±2 V or differential 0 ±8 V accelerometer outputs. Kistler Type 8315A… series TA and TB options feature lightweight, welded titanium housings with choice of industry standard 4-pin, ¼-28 connector or integral Teflon® jacketed cable, for a fully hermetic design with integral ground isolation. The maximum operating temperature on these units is 250°F (125 °C). Available accelerometer output signal formats are bipolar at 0 ±4 V, single ended 2,5 V ±2 V (both with temperature output) and differential 0 ±8 V output. For the TA and TB options, a temperature output is provided if external compensation of output signal is desired.

Recommended optional accessories for use with the Kistler Type 8315A… series include magnetic, off-ground adhesive or 10-32 screw mounting bases; a triaxial mounting cube; and various flexible, breakout, extension and output cabling options.

The Kistler Type 8315A… series is suitable for a variety of R&D and OEM applications, particularly where use of an instrument-grade accelerometer for high-precision, low-frequency measurements and high-durability packaging are absolute requirements. Typical applications include low-frequency aerospace ground vibration testing; structural dynamics; automotive laboratory testing, road testing and vehicle ride assessments; structural response testing of bridges and other civil structures; seismic ground and structural testing; and R&D applications, such as human motion studies and platform motion control systems.

Kistler Group:

Kistler’s core competence is the development, production and use of sensors for measuring pressure, force, torque and acceleration. Kistler’s know-how and electronic systems can be used to prepare measuring signals for use in analyzing physical processes, controlling and optimizing industrial processes, improving product quality in manufacturing and improving performance in sports and rehabilitation.

Kistler offers a comprehensive range of sensors and systems for engine development, automotive engineering, plastics and metal processing, installation technology and biomechanics.

A worldwide sales presence in the form of 25 group companies and 30 distributors ensures customer proximity, application support on an individual level and short lead times.

With a staff of about 1 000, the Kistler Group is one of the world’s leading providers of dynamic measuring instrumentation. The Kistler Group achieved turnover of 166 million Swiss Francs in the 2009 financial year.