Abstract: The invention relates to a monolithic multilayer actuator comprising a sintered stack of thin films, made from piezo-ceramic with inlaid metallic inner electrodes which extend from the stack on alternate sides and are electrically wired in parallel with external electrodes (3, 4) and are provided with connector wires (5). According to the invention, the actuator may be supplied with nominal voltage over a long period of time, without a change in the properties thereof, whereby the multilayer actuator (1) is sealed within a metallic or ceramic housing (8, 11, 16), the connector wires (5) are integral parts of the housing base (11) and the housing (8, 11, 16) is filled with a water-absorbing medium (14) and a water-transporting, electrically-insulating medium (15).

Abstract: The invention relates to a monolithic multilayer actuator comprising a sintered stack of thin films, made from piezo-ceramic with inlaid metalic inner electrodes which extend from the stack on alternate sides and are electrically wired in parallel with external electrodes (3, 4) and are provided with connector wires (5). According to the invention, the actuator may be supplied with nominal voltage over a long period of time, without a change in the properties thereof, whereby the multilayer actuator (1) is sealed within a metallic or ceramic housing (8, 11, 16), the connector wires (5) are integral parts of the housing base (11) and the housing (8, 11, 16) is filled with a water-absorbing medium (14) and a water-transporting, electrically-insulating medium (15).