PZT transducer design and pulsing optimization for film thickness and viscosity measurement

• Optimization of ultrasonic transducer design and pulsing procedure for oil film and viscosity measurement were described.
• The use of inductance in series was found effective in filtering the unwanted components of the reflected signal.
• The use of slip rings in the measurement circuit were increased the required inductance for the resonant tuning.
• The spring model equation can be used to select the transducer frequency for optimum response.

The profile measurements of film thickness and viscosity using ultrasonic transducer developed from a bare element were first reported by the authors. The procedures involved in optimization of ultrasonic transducer design and pulsing for lubricant film and viscosity measurement has been described. The use of inductance in series was found effective in filtering the unwanted components of the reflected signal. The inductance value was first approximated using an appropriate equation. Final inductance value was obtained by experiment where the combined effects of the equipment and the appearance of the filtered signal could be observed. It was also found that the use of slip rings in the measurement circuit increased the required inductance for the resonant tuning.