Dynamic ICP® Pressure Sensors Detect Combustion Instability & High Intensity Acoustics in Rocket Motor Testing

April 9, 2008, Depew, NY, USA – The Aerospace & Defense division of PCB Piezotronics (PCB®) has introduced a series of dynamic ICP® pressure sensors, Series 106, 116, 122, 123 and 124, designed expressly for measurement of combustion instability and high intensity acoustics in rocket motors. The rugged, hermetically sealed, piezoelectric pressure sensors are structured with acceleration-compensated quartz sensing elements and detect rapid pressure transients, pulsations, turbulence, noise, and spikes. They are ideal for rocket motor testing to verify the amplitude and mode of instabilities during motor firings. Other applications include evaluation of liquid rocket injectors, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, exhaust systems, compressors, turbines, pumps and pipelines, jet engines, and weapons discharge.

These devices monitor dynamic pressures while subjected to high static background pressure. ICP® output features on-board electronics to provide conditioned output signal and ease of use. Three physical configurations are available with Helium bleed, Helium bleed and water-cooling, and water-cooling only. Helium bleed protects the quartz sensor from intense heat, and also increases frequency response of the recess gas passage. Water cooling allows for maximum thermal stability and extends sensor operating temperature. Sensors are available with full-scale measurement ranges from 250 to 5,000 psi (1,724 to 34,473 kPa), and feature solid-state construction, no moving parts, stainless steel housings, high frequency response, and sensitivity up to 20 mV/psi (2.9 mV/kPa).

In addition, PCB® offers Series 106B and 116B to monitor low-level sound pressure and acoustics, while being subjected to high static background levels. ICP® versions feature on-board electronics to provide a conditioned output signal for ease of use. Available charge output units are suitable for temperatures to +750 ºF (+400 ºC). Optional water cooling allows use past +750 ºF (+400 ºC). Sensors are available with full-scale measuring ranges from 1 to 100 psi (6.9 to 699 kPa), and also feature solid-state construction, no moving parts, stainless steel housings, high frequency response, and sensitivity up to 5,000 mV/psi (725 mV/kPa).

For detailed specifications, drawings, or additional information, please visit our website at www.pcb.com.

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PCB and ICP are registered trademarks of PCB Group, Inc.