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How does a magnetostrictive transducer create ultrasonic vibrations?

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A magnetostrictive transducer generates ultrasonic vibrations by utilizing the phenomenon of magnetostriction, which is the change in dimensions of a ferromagnetic material when subjected to a magnetic field.12

In these devices, an applied oscillating magnetic field causes the atoms within the magnetic material to squeeze together. This process creates a periodic change in the length of the material, resulting in high-frequency mechanical vibrations. Because these materials expand or contract based on the orientation and strength of the magnetic field, they can effectively convert magnetic energy into mechanical motion.312

Magnetostrictive transducers are primarily utilized in lower frequency ranges and are commonly found in applications such as ultrasonic cleaners, ultrasonic machining, and sonar systems. Additionally, these devices are reversible, meaning they can also function as receivers by converting incoming ultrasonic vibrations back into electrical oscillations.32