Metrology Glossary: Strain Gauge

What Is A Strain Gauge?

A strain gauge is a sensing device used to gauge the deformation or strain experienced by an object. It functions by detecting alterations in the electrical resistance of a fine wire securely affixed to the object’s surface. When the object is subjected to strain, the attached wire also undergoes deformation, consequently causing variations in its electrical resistance. These fluctuations in resistance serve as an indicator of the degree of strain the object is undergoing. This data can then be accurately measured and converted into a precise measurement of the strain, allowing for detailed analysis and monitoring of structural changes.

What Are Strain Gauges Used For?

Force and Load Measurement Applications:

Industrial Scales: Providing precise weight measurements across diverse applications, ranging from heavy machinery to consumer products.
Manufacturing Quality Control: Ensuring dimensional accuracy and maintaining material stress levels within permissible limits throughout production processes.
Robotics: Determining joint torques and forces to enable accurate control and feedback in robotic systems.
Medical Devices: Utilizing pressure sensors equipped with strain gauges for measuring muscle activity, blood pressure, and other physiological parameters.

Structural Health Monitoring Applications:

Aerospace: Monitoring wing deflection and stress on airframes to ensure flight safety and optimize overall performance.
Civil Engineering: Tracking cracks, deformations, and potential failure points in bridges, buildings, and dams for structural integrity assessment.
Industrial Machinery: Assessing critical components’ health in turbines, generators, and other equipment to prevent malfunctions and minimize downtime.
Marine Vessels: Monitoring hull integrity and stress levels in ships and submarines for enhanced safety and performance.

Scientific Research Applications:

Material Science: Analyzing the mechanical properties of materials under varying loading conditions for comprehensive material studies.
Biomechanics: Investigating muscle behavior and joint kinematics in both human and animal movement through strain gauge-equipped sensors.
Structural Testing: Evaluating the performance and fatigue resistance of components and structures for robust structural testing and analysis.