When Extreme Pressure Meets Extreme Heat, Which Transducer Holds Up?
Gas turbine operators know the problem: standard pressure sensors drift, fail, or simply cannot survive the combustor environment. The 143-216-000-121 answers that challenge directly. This Vibro Meter CP 216 piezoelectric pressure transducer is built for dynamic pressure monitoring where temperatures reach −70 to 520°C and spikes hit 350 bar. It is a compression-mode device using man-made piezoelectric material, producing an extremely stable charge output for long-term monitoring or development testing.
What Makes the CP 216 Different
Unlike general-purpose transmitters, the CP 216 requires no input power. It generates a charge output through a 2-pole system insulated from the casing. That charge signal feeds an IPC 704 signal conditioner or equivalent charge converter. With 200 pC/bar sensitivity and a 2 Hz to 15 kHz frequency response, it captures both low-frequency pulsations and high-frequency events with less than ±1% linearity error across the dynamic measuring range.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | 200 pC/bar (13.8 pC/psi) |
| Dynamic range | 0.0005 to 250 bar |
| Overload capacity | Up to 350 bar |
| Frequency response | 2 to 15000 Hz ±5% |
| Continuous temperature | −54 to 470°C |
| Extreme temperature | −70 to 520°C |
| Resonant frequency | > 80 kHz |
| Linearity | < ±1% |
| Acceleration sensitivity | ≤ 0.5 pC/g |
| Insulation resistance | > 10⁹ Ω |
| Weight (transducer) | 12 g |
| Cable | Mineral insulated, two conductors |
Built for Gas Turbines and Harsh Environments
The CP 216 excels in dynamic pressure monitoring over wide temperature ranges. In gas turbine combustion monitoring, it tracks pressure oscillations that indicate instability or flame problems. Its −70 to 520°C extreme range and hermetically welded NIMONIC® alloy 90 body resist corrosion and humidity. The mineral insulated cable with INCONEL® alloy 600 construction survives the same heat. For test cells running development engines, the 143-216-000-121 delivers reliable data without frequent replacement. Radiation tolerance — gamma flux 10¹⁰ erg/g and neutron flux 10¹⁷ n/cm² with no effect — makes it suitable for nuclear-adjacent monitoring as well.
Installation and Integration Notes
The transducer ships with a 0.5 m mineral insulated cable terminated in a Vibro-Meter high-temperature connector. This connector handles −70 to 650°C, while the optional LEMO connector covers −55 to 155°C. Cable assemblies connect the transducer to an IPC 704 signal conditioner. Because the output is a charge signal, use only compatible charge converters. The unit is certified for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, but always follow the manufacturer’s safety manual for installation in hazardous areas. No external power wiring is required, which simplifies setup in remote locations.
Reliability That Pays Back
With no moving parts and factory dynamic calibration at 1 bar peak and 2 Hz, the CP 216 needs no subsequent calibration. That means less downtime and lower maintenance cost over its service life. The 12 g transducer adds minimal mass to test setups. For oil, gas, and industrial automation teams, this is a practical, ready-to-ship spare that keeps monitoring systems online. Contact Oil AutoTech today for pricing and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What signal conditioner works with the 143-216-000-121?
A: The CP 216 connects to an IPC 704 signal conditioner via available cable assemblies. Any charge converter compatible with 200 pC/bar sensitivity will work.
Q: Can this transducer handle both static and dynamic pressure?
A: It measures dynamic pressure from 0.0005 to 250 bar and withstands spikes up to 350 bar (static plus dynamic components).
Q: What is the maximum continuous temperature?
A: Continuous operation is rated −54 to 470°C, with extreme applications reaching −70 to 520°C.
Q: Does the CP 216 require external power?
A: No. It generates a charge output and requires no input power.
Q: Is the cable replaceable?
A: The transducer includes a 0.5 m mineral insulated cable. Contact Oil AutoTech for compatible cable assemblies and connector options.
