What Kistler Makes

Kistler is a specialist in piezoelectric and piezoresistive measurement technology. Its core portfolio covers pressure sensors, accelerometers, force sensors and torque measurement for R&D test benches, engine development, crash testing and production monitoring.

Choosing a Pressure Sensor

• Measurement principle: Piezo (dynamic, high-frequency, no static hold) vs quartz or piezoresistive (quasi-static and low-pressure).
• Pressure range: From a few bar for combustion analysis to 10,000+ bar for injection systems.
• Medium and temperature: Use cooled housings or diaphragm isolators for hot gases; check the front-end material against the medium.
• Output: Charge (needs charge amplifier) or amplified voltage/IEPE for simpler wiring.

Accelerometers and Force Sensors

For vibration and shock, pick sensitivity and frequency range to match the event; triaxial packages save channels. Force links and load washers are selected by rated force, overload and threaded vs flange mounting. Keep the sensor within its linear range and use the correct couplant/adapter.

Installation and Calibration

1. Mount rigidly on a clean, flat surface; a loose sensor reads structure resonance, not the signal.
2. Use the matched charge amplifier or IEPE supply and set the right range/gain.
3. Recalibrate on the recommended interval (Kistler issues calibration certificates) for traceable data.

Common Pitfalls

• Using a piezo sensor for a static pressure hold — it drifts; choose piezoresistive instead.
• Cable noise from movement or poor shielding — clamp and route the cable away from power.
• Over-ranging during transients — size for peak, not average.