Miniature cryogenic accelerometer withstands temperatures down to -251C

PCB Piezotronics offers its newest model 351A15, a miniature cryogenic quartz shear ICP accelerometer. It is the new flagship model in the 351 family of cryogenic accelerometers.

The model features third-party thermal testing to -420F (-251C); a wide frequency ranges from 0.35Hz to 20,000Hz; a high resonant frequency of 40,000 Hz; and a high amplitude range of 1,000g. It measures just 0.77" x 0.28" in hex (19.6mm x 7.2mm) and has a low weight of 0.07oz (2g).

The cold side operating temperature of the model is -320F (-196C). It can be exposed to far lower temperatures to -420F (-251C), indicated as a storage temperature specification. To survive at these low temperatures, specially selected amplifier components are employed, with each unit being hermetically sealed and individually tested for thermal coefficient of sensitivity at room temperature and -320F (-196C).

This single-axis accelerometer can be employed in various test applications but is mainly used for validation testing of cryogenic gas storage vessels and distribution piping. It is an outstanding option for rocket motor validation testing (cryogenic pumps), cryogenic fuel system testing, and industrial gas compressors/pump system validation for cryogenic gasses.