High power piezoelectric axial shockwave generation

Discussion 7Our experiments verified the specific properties ofaxially shock wave generation by using piezo-stackactuators.A The results fit well into the bar theory of shockpropagation as the interaction of axially activatedelements.B High levels of extractable mechanical energy inthe range of 7 J/kg piezo-ceramics are achievable,provided a mechanically high efficient materialis used (like PIEZOMECHANIK's HP-PZT) and thesemi-bipolar operating mode is applied. Then thepower balance exceeds that of standard actuatorPZT by a factor of two.C No pre-pulse "external mass acceleration" phaseis needed for generating a shock. The wholesystem is at rest and the shock generator isalready in contact with the mechanical counterpart immediately before to shock release.D µs-precise timing of the shock-event byelectrical means.E Variation of shock parameters like amplitude andpulse width by electrical means.F Excellent reproducibility of shock profiles.G High repetition rates (in bursts).16