The Macro Fiber Composite (MFC) is the leading low-profile actuator and sensor offering high performance, flexibility and reliability in a cost- competitive device. The MFC was invented by NASA in 1999. In 2002, Smart Material started commercializing this patented invention worldwide as its licensed manufacturer and distributor. Since then, the MFC has been continuously improved and customized to fit customers’ specific needs and to meet the requirements for new applications.
The MFC consists of rectangular piezo ceramic rods sandwiched between layers of adhesive, electrodes, and polyimide film. The electrodes are attached to the film in an interdigitated pattern which transfers the applied voltage directly to and from the ribbon-shaped rods. This assembly enables in-plane poling, actuation, and sensing in a sealed and durable, ready-to-use package. The MFC can also be applied (normally bonded) as a thin, surface-conformable sheet to various types of structures, or embedded in a composite structure. If voltage is applied, it will bend or distort materials, counteract vibrations, or generate vibrations. If no voltage is applied it can work as a very sensitive strain gauge, sensing deformations, noise, and vibrations. The MFC is also an excellent device to harvest energy from vibrations.
Max. blocking force | 28N to 1kN depending on width of MFC |
Max. operating voltage | P1, S1, F1: -500V to +1500V P2, P3: -60V to 360V |
Max. operating frequency | Actuator: 10kHz Sensor, Harvester <1MHz |
Typical lifetime | Actuator: 10E+8 cycles Sensor: 10E+11 cycles Harvester:10E+10 cycles |
Typical thickness | 300µm, 12mil |
Typical capacitance | P1, S1, F1: 2nF to 12nF P2, P3: 25nF to 200nF |