Riedel, Simon (Physik Instrumente (PI) SE & Co. KG), Kapelke, Simon (Physik Instrumente (PI) SE & Co. KG), Fidlin, Alexander (KIT Karlsruhe)

On the Impact of Cracks on the Lifetime of PICMA® Multilayer Actuators

Scheduled for presentation during the Invited Session "Advanced Prognostics and Health Management of Mechatronic Systems: Methods and Applications" (WeAT1), Wednesday, July 16, 2025, 11:20−11:40, Room 105

Joint 10th IFAC Symposium on Mechatronic Systems and 14th Symposium on Robotics, July 15-18, 2025, Paris, France

This information is tentative and subject to change. Compiled on July 16, 2025

Abstract

Piezoelectric actuators are commonly used to drive high-precision positioning systems. In general, ceramic actuators can withstand very high compressive loads but are susceptible to tensile forces. Cyclic loads and frequent load changes can cause cracks to form in the material over its lifespan. The influence of cracks on the behavior and the durability of the actuator is the subject of current research. The aim is to clarify if a prediction of impending failure is possible based on the dynamic behavior of the actuator. To investigate this topic, multiple actuators were intentionally cracked and used to conduct end-of-life tests at defined environmental conditions.