Piezo Direct - Multilayer Piezo Actuators

Multilayer piezo stack actuators are created by arranging multiple layers of piezoelectric materials on top of each other, which is why they are also called piezo stack actuators. This can be accomplished in two ways: either the components are fired separately and connected later via adhesive (discrete stacks; the components are normally discs), or they are co-fired and bound by subjecting them to intense heat and pressure, or sintering (monolithic stacks). The underlying principle of stack piezo actuators is the intrinsic quality of constancy. The charge generated is independent of the size of the ceramic a user is working with (this is mathematically modeled by the longitudinal effect). Thus, putting many pieces together creates a multiplicative effect on their transformations’ magnitude for the same voltage, amplifying their power.

The primary difference between the two types of stack piezoelectric actuators is the operating voltage. Co-fired multilayer piezo actuators typically have a lower operational voltage of up to 200V whereas monolithic actuators have a higher range of up to 1000V. This operating voltage range is predetermined during the manufacturing process, introducing a higher voltage outside of the operating range will not cause the piezo stack actuator to deform further than the specified amount. Operating outside of the voltage range is not recommended, as this can destroy the piezo stack.

Multilayer stack piezo actuators are often used as linear electromechanical drivers to move parts in a small and precise amount. In most cases, displacement can reach up to 0.13% of the total product length within a millisecond. In nearly all cases, displacement is linear to the voltage applied, and accuracy is in the range of nanometers. Because of the precise displacement, a secondary sensor is not necessary, unlike other types of actuators.

Multilayer piezo stack actuators are powerful sources of force generation and can be manufactured in various shapes and sizes.
piezo stack

Multilayer stack piezo actuators by Piezo Direct
Piezo Direct’s multilayer piezo stack actuators are constructed with hundreds of inner electrodes and thin ceramic layers, which are sintered to form a monolithic stack actuator with a maximum single device height of 60 mm. Please note that discrete stacks can be built taller than monolithic stacks.

We offer a variety of multilayer piezo stack actuators. Shape, finish, material, dimensions, and performance levels can all be customized! Piezo Direct’s piezo stacks are suitable for numerous applications. Unsure what you need? Contact us! Piezo Direct is more than happy to work with you to design a custom piezo part to meet your application requirements. If none of these products match your requirements, click here to learn more about working with our engineers to build a custom piezo component.

Nano-positioning

• Precise machining
• Piezo positioning stage
• Microscope and Imaging
• 3D Printer
• Linear motors
• Pumps, Valve drive

OClics

• Fiber position
• Add/Drop multiplexer
• OClics switch
• AdaClive oClics
• Tunable lasers

Medical & Life Science

• Micro-pumps
• Piezo valve for drug dispenser

Aerospace & Automobile

• Thrusters
• Active trailing edge
• Fuel injector for common rail system

Piezoelectric Injection Valve

• Non-contact dispense
• IC dispense
• LED dispense
• Camera module dispense