CIE Components in Electronics
Morgan Technical Ceramics has introduced a new dual wideband piezo composite frequency transducer for a range of marine applications including depth sounding, fish finding or guidance and Doppler speed metering. A key advantage of the new 09222/000 transducer is that it offers wideband dual frequency operation through the same slot.
Compared with conventional designs, which have a single bandwidth of 195 to 205kHz, the new 09222/000 transducer has dual ranges of 55-89kHz and 150 to 220kHz, with a side lobe level of less than -25dB, compared to -20dB. The transducer uses piezo composite technology that extends bandwidth, suppresses side lobes, improves beam uniformity and increases figure of merit (FOM) operation. The wide bandwidth it delivers has a short ring-down time which enables the user to distinguish between objects close together within the transducer’s field of view, typically between fish close to the sea bed.
Using wide bandwidth also means that it is possible to use more advanced imaging algorithms such as Chirp, which requires driving with a frequency sweep, or Synthetic Aperture Focusing Techniques (SAFT). Users also have the options of using the higher frequency for increased target resolution, while the low frequency mode remains available for better deep-water performance.
From the installation point of view, having a wide bandwidth dual frequency transducer avoids having to drill two separate slots in the hull and reduces the need for fairings protruding beneath the boat. Fitted into a stainless-steel housing, with alternative materials available, the transducer is RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substance) compliant.
In addition to its standard specification, Morgan Technical Ceramics can also offer customised geometry, centre frequency and bandwidth. Composite technology is available with a centre frequency of 50kHz – 5MHz and a bandwidth up to 70 per cent. The emitting face can be up to 200mm square or 150mm diameter to allow for a tight beam width and high power. With appropriate encapsulation and cabling, transducers can also be designed to withstand deep-sea environmental conditions and down hole applications.
With a long track-record of designing custom transducers for sonar applications, engineers at Morgan Technical Ceramics offer world-leading materials for sonar applications including Navy types I, II, III V and VI in addition to custom formulations and single crystal materials. The technology can be adapted to higher frequency ranges and a variety of sizes and shapes that require dual-frequency operation. With in-house underwater acoustic test tanks and pressure testing facilities to validate performance, Morgan Technical Ceramics is able to offer customised solutions in short lead times.
