Temperature Influence on the Performances of a PZT-5H Piezoelectric Harvester

Temperature can affect the performances of a piezoelectric transducer, and temperature fluctuations can contribute to additional variability in the response, both in terms of natural mechanical frequency and electric output. The paper aims to assess these influences of thermal conditions on the performances of a piezoelectric harvester, using Finite Element Method simulations. The material of the piezoelectric wafers is PZT-5H (soft lead zirconate titanate), with improved performances for energy harvesting over other materials. In spite of its improved piezoelectric effect, this one can be less stable with temperature variations. Before harnessing the vibrations of any equipment subjected to important thermal effects during operation, temperature has to be measured in the mounting spot. The temperature, here, is -30 °C to 100 °C. The paper aims to assess how the working temperature of the targeted machinery influences the response of the harvester.