What it is

The miniature pressure sensors of the 601C series are, due to their high sensitivity, suited for a variety of applications where very small pressure pulsations need to be measured.

The Kistler 601C is a miniature piezoelectric pressure sensor for measuring very small dynamic pressure pulsations up to 3,626 psi (250 bar). Its PiezoStar crystal gives higher sensitivity and lower noise than an equivalently sized quartz sensor. Its diaphragm is optimized for high thermal shock, and it is available with charge (PE) or voltage (IEPE) output.

• Pressure range: up to 3,626 psi (250 bar)
• High sensitivity: −2.6 pC/psi (−37.0 pC/bar) on the PE version
• Low noise: 0.00022 psi rms (15 µbar rms) typical on the PE version
• Fast response: rise time <1.4 µs, natural frequency >215 kHz
• Wide temperature range: −321 to +662 °F (−196 to +350 °C) on the PE version
• Two outputs: charge (PE) or voltage (IEPE)
• All-welded, hermetically sealed: 17-4 stainless steel housing and diaphragm

What it is used for

Some of the use cases for the 601C include:

• Pressure pulsations — on compressors, pumps, turbines, and propellers
• Explosion testing — gas and dust explosions (Ex testing)
• Pyrotechnics and energetics — pyrotechnical devices, closed vessel testing, and energetic material testing
• Small dynamic pressures — sloshing and sound pressure

Main features / advantages

What does the 601C measure?

The miniature pressure sensors of the 601C series are, due to their high sensitivity, suited for a variety of applications where very small pressure pulsations need to be measured.

Due to their high natural frequencies, piezoelectric pressure sensors can be used for a variety of applications where dynamic pressures need to be measured. Another unique characteristic of piezoelectric pressure sensors is their ability to measure small pressure fluctuations superimposed on top of high static pressures with exceptional resolution. By contrast, piezoresistive pressure sensors are the right choice when measuring static pressure curves.

At the core of the all-welded, hermetically sealed 601C series is a high-performance PiezoStar crystal grown by Kistler. This PiezoStar crystal gives the sensor a far higher sensitivity than an equivalently sized pressure sensor based on synthetic quartz, which results in a lower noise level and so enables lower pressures to be measured more accurately. The pressure acts on the sensor's diaphragm and compresses the PiezoStar crystal, which produces a charge proportional to the pressure. A charge amplifier converts the charge signal into a voltage that can be read.

In addition, the optimized diaphragm ensures accurate dynamic pressure measurements, even when the diaphragm is simultaneously exposed to a high thermal shock.

Why engineers pick it

• More signal from a small sensor. The PiezoStar crystal gives the 601C a sensitivity of −37.0 pC/bar, with typical noise of 15 µbar rms from 1 Hz to 10 kHz.
• Built for thermal shock. The optimized diaphragm keeps dynamic measurements accurate even when it is exposed to high thermal shock, as in explosion and pyrotechnic testing.
• Extreme temperatures with PE output. The PE version operates from −321 to +662 °F (−196 to +350 °C) and is rated for at least 400 kGy of gamma radiation.
• Fast and stiff. Rise time is below 1.4 µs and natural frequency above 215 kHz, on both PE and IEPE versions.

Which 601C version do I need?

• Choose IEPE for long-term measurement of small pressure pulsations without static content, connected directly to an IEPE-capable input.
• Choose PE for quasi-static or dynamic pressure profiles lasting up to a few minutes, for extreme temperatures, or when you need an adjustable measuring range set on the charge amplifier.
• Choose the short housing (601CAB) where the mechanical structure can't be weakened. It mounts with a Type 6482A connector extender, made to order with a 10-32, BNC, or TNC connector.

How is the 601C mounted?

For splashing water or underwater use, the IP68-rated Type 1983A FKM cable fits sensors with the standard housing. It can be screwed on or welded to the sensor at the factory, and both have been qualified for IP68 from vacuum to 232 psi (16 bar).

When is the 601C the wrong choice?

• Static pressure. Piezoelectric sensors measure dynamic and quasi-static pressure. For static pressure curves, use a piezoresistive sensor.
• Pressures above 3,626 psi (250 bar). The 601C range tops out at 250 bar, with overload at 4,350 psi (300 bar).
• IEPE at high temperature. The IEPE version's built-in electronics limit it to −67 … +248 °F (−55 … +120 °C) and a fixed measuring range.
• Mounting bore quality. Direct mounting needs precisely machined holes made with special reamers and taps. Where that isn't practical, use a mounting adapter.

Configure and order the 601C

Configure the 601C by output, housing, and pressure range, add the mounting accessories your installation needs, and order directly on this page. For questions, contact us.