Experimental Investigation of Energy Harvesting by Employing Piezoelectric Element and Metallic Cantilever Beam

Abstract

In this paper, in response to the worldwide energy crisis, a piezoelectric element (0.2*35*50) mounted on a host metallic cantilever beam (0.8*37*220) will be presented as a unique contribution to power generation via the micro-electrical mechanical system. It's made out of aluminium and low carbon steel, both of which have a Young modulus of elasticity of 6.8 and 196 GPa, respectively. In order to take advantage of the engine's vibration as an exciting external force to collect energy in the aforementioned piezoelectric device, the whole rig has been coupled to a diesel engine 5kw 3000 rpm (50 Hz). The average power generated by the aluminium beam was 943 microWatts, while the power generated by the low carbon steel beam was 335 microWatts, an increase of 256%. In addition, for both scenarios, (45) mm from the cantilever beam's fixed point was where the engaged piezoelectric element performed best. The used two metals have different stiffnesses, and this accounts for the obtained difference between the induced powers; increasing the stiffness will result in relatively more power created, and vice versa.