Abstract: Improvements in thin film sensors are disclosed. These can be used for aircraft applications. Dielectric isolation washers can be provided between a pressure sensor and an exterior metal housing of a sensor assembly. In this manner, high voltage inputs from a lightning strike or other source that reach the sensor housing are not transmitted to the sensor. Dielectric washers, insulators, and potting compounds can thus isolate a metal thin film pressure sensor from adjacent metal components (e.g., using non-conducting insulating materials like Torlon, zirconia and nylon). Besides their high dielectric strength, these materials exhibit compressive strength and resistance to wear, creep and corrosion. Desirable thicknesses for these components are provided. The described thin film pressure sensor embodiments can attain a dielectric rating of 1500 VAC.

Abstract: Improvements in thin film sensors are disclosed. These can be used for aircraft applications. Dielectric isolation washers can be provided between a pressure sensor and an exterior metal housing of a sensor assembly. In this manner, high voltage inputs from a lightning strike or other source that reach the sensor housing are not transmitted to the sensor. Dielectric washers, insulators, and potting compounds can thus isolate a metal thin film pressure sensor from adjacent metal components (e.g., using non-conducting insulating materials like Torlon, zirconia and nylon). Besides their high dielectric strength, these materials exhibit compressive strength and resistance to wear, creep and corrosion. Desirable thicknesses for these components are provided. The described thin film pressure sensor embodiments can attain a dielectric rating of 1500 VAC.

Abstract: Certain improvements in thin film sensors are disclosed, with particular emphasis on aircraft applications. In certain embodiments, dielectric isolation washers have been provided between the pressure sensor and the interior surface of the exterior metal housing of the sensor assembly. In this manner, high voltage inputs from a lightning strike or other source that reach the sensor housing are not transmitted to the sensor. In one embodiment, the dielectric washers, insulators, and potting compounds isolate the metal thin film pressure sensor from all adjacent metal components in the assembly with non-conducting insulating materials like Torlon, zirconia and nylon. Besides their high dielectric strength, these materials exhibit excellent compressive strength and outstanding resistance to wear, creep and chemicals. Certain minimum thickness for these components are described. The present thin film pressure sensor embodiments can attain a dielectric rating of 1500 VAC.