Exploring piezoceramic applications in the medical world

Piezo experts from research and industry will come together in Cranfield on the 17th of March 2020 for the PI Inspirations Workshop, Piezoceramic Applications in the Medical World.

Piezoceramic materials are commonly used in actuation and sensing applications across a variety of markets and are key to some of the leading-edge technologies now used in the medical sector. From laboratory diagnostics and microdosing to ultrasonics and even tartar removal from teeth, medical technologies require components that are fast, reliable and energy saving. Piezoceramics combine these characteristics, offering much higher accuracy and precision – and requiring less power – compared to traditional mechanical actuators and sensors. They are also friction free, making them less susceptible to wear and tear, which reduces costs, and do not create and are not affected by magnetic fields. The ability for these components to work so reliably under extreme conditions, for example under cryogenic temperatures and in vacuums, makes them easily adaptable to different environments for diverse functions, such as non-destructive testing, therapy and imaging.Many of the medical applications for piezoceramics deal with the controlled flow of liquids in micropipetting applications, taking advantage of the incredible speed and accuracy that they offer down to the micrometre level. These mechanisms must also produce enough force to move the pipettes vertically. Piezomotors are perfect for this application, as they can generate high forces and a controllable forward motion with uniform speed and unparalleled accuracy. Similarly, piezo elements in micropumps control and monitor extremely small liquid or gas volumes – down to a few nanolitres – reliably and precisely.

Thinking about using powerful and versatile piezo technology in your next project? Whether you’re at the early stage of a project and want to explore the available options, or know exactly what technology you need and are facing challenges, join us at our Inspirations Lab on the 17th of March. Find out how piezoceramic technology can be employed in demanding medical applications, and let our applications specialists help you to take your own project forward. You will get the chance to hear piezoceramic experts discussing how PI’s groundbreaking technologies – including assembled structures – can be applied to leading-edge medical, HIFU and fluidics applications. You’ll also see examples of components, devices and working actuators that will help to explain the complexities of piezo operation.

Secure your place at this exciting event now!