EPE stands for Integrated Electronics Piezoelectric. ICP (Integrated Circuit Piezoelectric) is a manufacturer-specific term for the same measurement principle. Both terms describe piezoelectric sensors with integrated impedance converter electronics, which are primarily used to measure Acceleration, Strength, Print and—depending on the model—also for Measurement Microphones be used.
Unlike conventional piezoelectric charge sensors, the integrated electronics convert the high-impedance charge signal directly within the sensor into a low-impedance voltage signal. This allows measurement signals to be transmitted virtually interference-free even over longer cable runs, without the need for an external charge amplifier. The sensor is powered by a constant-current source, with the power supply and measurement signal transmitted together over the same line.
Advantages of IEPE/ICP Sensors
- Quick and Easy Setup
- High immunity to interference due to a low-impedance output signal
- Long cable runs without significant signal loss
- No external charge amplifier required
- High measurement accuracy in dynamic measurements
- Compatibility with numerous data acquisition systems and measurement amplifiers
Typical Applications
IEPE sensors are among the most important types of sensors used in industrial applications today measuring and testing
technology. Among other things, they are used for:
- Vibration Measurements on Machines and Equipment
- Condition Monitoring
- Acceleration Measurements in Research and Development
- Force and Pressure Measurements in Dynamic Processes
- Structural and Material Tests
- Acoustic Measurements Using IEPE Microphones
IEPE Sensors in Delphin Measurement Technology
Data acquisition systems and measuring instruments from Delphin Technology support the direct connection of IEPE sensors via appropriate measurement inputs or signal conditioning modules. This allows acceleration, force, or pressure sensors to be easily integrated and measured in sync with other parameters such as temperature, voltage, current, speed, or process signals. This enables precise measurements in laboratories, test benches, and industrial applications, and simplifies the analysis of complex measurement tasks.
Distinction from Load Sensors
While IEPE sensors are particularly well-suited for general dynamic measurement tasks with simple wiring, piezoelectric charge sensors are primarily used at very high temperatures, for extremely wide dynamic ranges, or in specialized high-precision applications. For the majority of industrial vibration measurements, the IEPE standard is now considered an established and proven solution.