ultrasonic transducer

An ultrasonic transducer is a device that converts energy into ultrasonic vibrations, which are sound waves with frequencies above the human hearing range (greater than 20 kilohertz). These transducers can be mechanical, like whistles, or electromechanical, such as piezoelectric or magnetostrictive devices.1

Piezoelectric transducers, made from materials like quartz or ceramics, are highly versatile and convert oscillating electric fields into mechanical vibrations. They are widely used in medical imaging, sonar, and materials testing due to their ability to generate and receive ultrasonic waves.1

Ultrasonics has numerous applications, including medical diagnosis and therapy, underwater navigation (sonar), industrial cleaning, and materials testing. In medicine, ultrasound is used to visualize fetuses and internal organs, and to break up kidney stones. High-intensity ultrasound can also be used for drilling, welding, and machining.21