Gear shift sensor.

Variohm EuroSensor has launched a new tension/compression gear shift sensor for clutch-free, flat shift, ignition cut and other gearshift applications in professional motorsports.

Their VGS-T-1000-M8 (1UAB04) combines strain gauge and integrated digital amplifier technologies to provide an analogue voltage output corresponding to typical motorsports ECU threshold values set between 2.5V DC for zero force and 0...5V DC for +/- 1000N force. Facilitating high speed gear engagement during maximum acceleration with no lost traction, the gear shift sensor also offers advantages over other shifting systems by removing the need for a torque converter and reducing fuel consumption.

Aimed at professional motorsports series such as WRC, S2000, Moto GP, etc., the IP65 rated sensor’s robust and durable design includes a stainless-steel housing with two M8 mounting threads and a 15 mm diameter anodised aluminium sleeve protecting the sensor electronics. With excellent resistance to shock and vibration, the unit has an accuracy to within +/- 5 N over a temperature range of -20 to +85 °C. Overload protection is rated at +/- 5000 N whilst zero force offset at 2.5 V output is specified to within +/- 0.025 V, and gain drift with temperature is 0.2%. The sensor’s supply voltage and current rating is 6 to 16V DC at 18 mA and electrical connection is via a 1-metre-long braided cable assembly.

This is part of a wide range of motorsports sensors available from Variohm EuroSensor, including linear and rotary position sensors, pressure sensors, temperature, acceleration & gyro sensors, plus displays and other instrumentation.

@Variohm @mepaxIntPR #Automotive #Motorsports

Digital strain gauge signal conditioning modules.

Ixthus Instrumentation has expanded its range of force and load cell instrumentation accessories with two high performance digital strain gauge signal conditioning modules from its USA distribution partner Strainsert Inc. 

Aimed at measurement tasks where accuracy, resolution, and stability are essential, the new products include a single channel option with USB connectivity and a model for single or multichannel strain gauge signal conditioning with optional RS-232, RS-485 or CAN outputs and a choice of ASCII, Modbus or CAN protocols. Both new products are supported with comprehensive software tools allowing straightforward interfacing, configuration and calibration including a Windows DLL for building custom applications.

The DSC digital strain gauge module, supplied as a single channel PCB format package or combined in customised enclosures for multiple sensor measurement tasks, provides up to 500 readings per second. With a user programmable signal filter, the module is suitable for 4-wire bridge measurement with a nominal 5 V excitation voltage, and bridge resistance from 320 to 5000 Ohms (350 Ohms typical) with a typical sensitivity 2.5 mV/V. Standard single and multichannel modules are available for RS232 and RS485 output with ASCII or Modbus protocols, or CAN output using the CAN 2.0B protocol Single modules require an external 12 V DC power source at 450 mW typical for a 350 Ohm bridge.

The USB interfaced version, (DSCUSB) is powered from its USB port and a simple ‘plug and measure’ feature allows direct connection to a PC, appearing as a virtual COM port. Where multiple USB ports are available, multi-channel use is possible. At 200 samples per second at 18 bits noise free resolution, the module outputs an ASCII protocol. In combination with the software toolkit, the module can cater for correction of non-linear sensors. The compact ABS plastic enclosure (71 x 51 x 20 mm) has an IP50 rating and is also available with a DIN-rail mounting kit.

Both DSC and DSCUSB digital strain gauge modules share common specifications for temperature stability, linearity and resolution. Detailed specification sheets are available from Ixthus Instrumentation who can assist UK and Ireland customers with application engineering and customised system integration for multi-channel measurement tasks.

@IxthusInst @mepaxIntPR #strainsert #PAuto 

New version strain sensor.

The Sensor-Technik Wiedemann (STW) strain sensor DMS for measuring deflections, (e.g. of metal arms), has been completely revised and is now available in a new version under the product name SMX.dms-a. The newly developed hardware allows a lower height of the housing. The assembly points are identical to those of the predecessor product, thus enabling the seamless transition in already existing applications.

As on the previous strain sensor DMS, both an analog and a digital output are available. Furthermore, the STW toolchain openSYDE is supported, which allows easy integration into already existing systems and is used for the commissioning of intelligent sensors and electronic control units.

The SMX.dms-a strain sensor is suitable for harsh operating conditions, such as those frequently encountered with mobile machines, and now also has an E1 approval for even easier use in vehicles.

Conventional strain sensors are hard to install and put into operation. Due to its optimized connection technology, the installation of the STW sensor can be very well integrated into the production process of e.g. mobile machines. The sensor is intended either for direct mounting or it can be delivered preassembled with an optional carrier plate. openSYDE enables both easy commissioning of the DMS and software updates.

In case of servicing, the sensor can be easily replaced on site. As the configuration data are adopted, the SMX.dms-a sensor can be put into operation without requiring further alignment, meaning that the system is ready for operation again within a very short time.

By measuring deflections, forces, weights or vibrations are recorded indirectly. This can be used in many different application scenarios, such as presses, hoists, containers, steel beams, connecting rods, bridges, silo stands, railroad tracks, wind power plants, tunnel or mining equipment, airport vehicles, cranes and other mobile machines.
STW strain sensors are often used in combination with other STW sensors or control units in the following applications:

• High-resolution measurements of strain or deflection in critical machine structures • (Indirect) measurement of forces, weights, axel loads or torques • Load detection, torque limitation and load-dependent stroke limitation in e.g. forklift trucks and cranes • Vibration damping of crane arms, ladders or other cantilever structures • Collision detection, e.g. in airport vehicles

The modular sensor system for mobile hydraulics offers various products for the recording of physical variables such as temperature, pressure, strain, inclination and angular velocity, as well as pressure switches also in a functionally safe design. In mobile machines, the measurement values are used, among other things, for monitoring and controlling the drive, the work function or the energy management. They can also be made available with onboard software and cloud solutions. In addition, STW sensors are characterized by exceptional resilience and durability.

The toolchain openSYDE, which STW makes available to its customers as open source, was developed for automation specialists in the field of construction machinery, municipal vehicles, tractors, etc. It is the integrating software with which users carry out the design, development, configuration and service of their application over the entire life cycle.

@Sensor_Technik @PresseBox #PAuto 

Miniature-format strain sensors.

Similar to other strain sensors in the Baumer portfolio, the compact DST20 sensors are based on the strain gauge technology with a strain gauge and a strain body. The soft geometry on the inside minimizes hardening of the structure to be measured. This makes the miniature strain sensor suitable for static as well as dynamic applications. Thin structures can also be monitored because of the limited reaction forces on the screws.

The miniature-format strain sensors DST20 complement their portfolio by adding a compact and cost-efficient solution for measuring large forces above 10,000 N even in confined spaces. With their dimensions of 28x12x10 mm, the DST20 miniature strain sensors offer space savings that are unmatched by any other screw-on strain sensor on the market. At the same time, their stainless steel housing and a certification for the IP 65 degree of protection make them excellently suited for use in rough production environments and for a large range of applications, such as mechanical and equipment engineering as well as process automation. The DST20 strain sensor can be integrated into a machine with minimum engineering effort and offers a lasting solution that can serially replace cold bonded strain gauges in limited installation spaces, based on initial tests in the experimental laboratory.

Ex factory the strain is typically measured with an output signal of around 1.0 mV/V, which frequently eliminates the need for calibration with a separate force sensor. This allows users to benefit from simple and quick commissioning coupled with high measurement accuracy in the micrometer range, which saves valuable time in the case of emergencies.

The sensors come in two measurement ranges: 500 and 1,000 µm/m, for different customer requirements in terms of the expected strains and permitted mechanical tension, depending on the steel quality. This way, a single sensor can be used to cover a large number of applications, allowing users to reduce costs and warehouse space.

With the DST20, Baumer rounds off its strong portfolio for force measurement with force and strain sensors. In addition to robust strain sensors for outdoor and industrial applications, Baumer has thus combined robustness and precision with exceptionally compact dimensions, effectively enhancing the scope of application of strain sensors. Users can now also optimize their process safety and quality in areas where the smallest dimensions matter.

#BaumerGroup #PAuto 

Mini-strain sensors.

The miniature-format strain sensors DST20 complement the Baumer portfolio by adding a compact and cost-efficient solution for measuring large forces above 10,000 N even in confined spaces. With their dimensions of 28x12x10 mm, the DST20 miniature strain sensors offer space savings that are unmatched by any other screw-on strain sensor on the market. At the same time, their stainless steel housing and a certification for the IP 65 degree of protection make them excellently suited for use in rough production environments and for a large range of applications, such as mechanical and equipment engineering as well as process automation.

The DST20 strain sensor can be integrated into a machine with minimum engineering effort and offers a lasting solution that can serially replace cold bonded strain gauges in limited installation spaces, based on initial tests in the experimental laboratory.

Similar to other strain sensors in the Baumer portfolio, the compact DST20 sensors are based on the strain gauge technology with a strain gauge and a strain body. The soft geometry on the inside minimizes hardening of the structure to be measured. This makes the miniature strain sensor suitable for static as well as dynamic applications. Thin structures can also be monitored because of the limited reaction forces on the screws.

Ex factory the strain is typically measured with an output signal of around 1.0 mV/V, which frequently eliminates the need for calibration with a separate force sensor. This allows users to benefit from simple and quick commissioning coupled with high measurement accuracy in the micrometer range, which saves valuable time in the case of emergencies.

The sensors come in two measurement ranges: 500 and 1,000 µm/m, for different customer requirements in terms of the expected strains and permitted mechanical tension, depending on the steel quality. This way, a single sensor can be used to cover a large number of applications, allowing users to reduce costs and warehouse space.

With the DST20, Baumer rounds off its strong portfolio for force measurement with force and strain sensors. In addition to robust strain sensors for outdoor and industrial applications, Baumer has thus combined robustness and precision with exceptionally compact dimensions, effectively enhancing the scope of application of strain sensors. Users can now also optimize their process safety and quality in areas where the smallest dimensions matter.

#Baumer #PAuto #MEpax

Simplifying bridge sensor measurements.

Software provides powerful signal conditioning capabilities for precise conversion of bridge inputs to process current or voltage control signals

Acromag’s new TT351 load cell and strain gauge signal conditioners use software to quickly select from a wide variety of sensor measurement options. A USB port simplifies setup on a Windows PC or Android mobile device with Acromag’s AgilityTM app. Software menus help users set the sensor type, bridge configuration, excitation source, filtering level, and input/output ranges. Advanced capabilities let users fine tune scaling of I/O signals, adjust excitation levels, and calibrate the bridge.

Universal output supports six ranges including 4-20mA, 0-10V and ±10V. Flexible power accepts a 9-32V DC supply at the terminals and a rail power bus option can supply multiple units from a single connection or establish redundant power. The narrow 17.5mm housing mounts easily on a DIN rail. Hazardous location approvals, high noise immunity, and a -40 to 70°C operating range make these transmitters ideal for use in harsh environments.

“These software-configured bridge sensor transmitters offer capabilities not possible with DIP switches or pot adjustments for a broad range of load cell, strain gauge, weight and force measurements,” stresses Robert Greenfield, Acromag’s Business Development Manager.

The TT351 input circuit allows true 6-wire bridge measurement and includes an adjustable bridge excitation supply (4 to 11V DC) with a remote sense feature. Sense wires ensure the programmed excitation voltage is applied at the sensor and enable lead-wire compensation. The differential input performs true ratiometric conversions for extremely stable measurements that remain accurate over time and temperature. Plus, lead break detection is inherent in the device. Three-way isolation between input, output and power increases safety and noise immunity.

Advanced signal processing capabilities, variable range input, and convenient USB programming make this instrument a very versatile strain/load measurement device. A single model can process strain gage, load cell, and millivolt input signals from 1-10mV/V. Initial bridge offsets or forces can be automatically removed with null compensation, tare, and zero balance bridge functions. An internal half-bridge can perform half and quarter bridge completion with precision resistor pairs or bias a floating millivolt input signal. A custom input signal linerarizer function supports up to 25 user defined signal breakpoints. Flexible scaling is independently adjustable on the input and output. To suppress noise effects, users can set a variable digital input filter level or average a number of samples. Shunt calibration tools with a simulation calculator enables rescaling of the transmitter’s indicated strain by modifying software gain and/or the instrument gauge factor. And to test or verify operation, a software diagnostics screen will poll the unit and display measured and computed values.

#PAuto @Acromag

Touch operation made easier.

Touch operation is made possible by Algra Group's innovative strain gauge technology, Dynaforce, which turns rigid surfaces into an input front in the blink of an eye.

Strain gauge technology detects even the slightest deformation

Whether on your smartphone, at public machines or around the house - for many people, touch-based operation has become a firmly established part of everyday life. The Algra Group's strain gauge technology makes touch operation possible on more atypical surfaces such as metal, wood or even ceramics.

"The strain gauge technology recognises even the smallest deformations in the material layer," explains Dieter Matter, CEO of the Algra Group. "This is enough to activate the button and trigger a function." This technological feat is made possible by intelligent software and a sensor network that is made up of strain gauges. These can determine where you are touching and thus activate the button.

Freely combinable options
The Dynaforce sensors are extremely touch-sensitive and function without problems on sheet thicknesses of between 0.3 and 1.2 mm. There is one of these sensors for each button on the circuit board. This network of sensors then detects even the finest mechanical deformations and uses the intelligent software to filter out interfering signals.

As these sensors are force sensors, functions can be differentiated based on the force exerted upon the sensor. With a lamp, for example, a hard press of the button may cause the light to turn on, while a gentler press of the button could lower the brightness.

Another possibility is visual feedback through an LED or a display. In addition, you can choose any sound to play as acoustic feedback. With Dynaforce, these variants can be combined in any way you wish.

Design that is pleasing on the eye
Typical applications are designer products that are used around the house, in an industrial setting, or in a public space, as well as applications with high demands on robustness and water resistance. The input technology will blow you away with its elegant design, its easy installation process (peel-and-stick), its operational capability in a wide range of temperatures (-40° C to +85° C), and the fact you can operate the buttons even when you are wearing gloves.

#AlgraGroup #HMI #Switch

ATEX telemetry for strain gauge.

Fires and explosions endanger lives, cause severe injury and cause significant environmental damage.

Explosive atmospheres created by combustible gases, vapours, mists and dust, must be protected from ignition sources.

Reduce the dangers in hazardous areas by using the new Applied Measurements X24 wireless ATEX & IECEx approved instrumentation to collect measurements from your load cell, pressure sensor or any other strain gauge-based transducer.

X24 Wireless ATEX Approved Transmission in Hazardous Zones 1 & 2

13 Reasons Why You Should Use This ATEX Approved Telemetry:

1. Exceptional Reliable Wireless Signal in Hazardous Environments 2. Accepts Inputs up to 3.2mV/V from a Load Cell or Strain Gauge Bridge Sensor 3. Intrinsically Safe with the Latest CSA Certification 4. Ideal for Petrochemical, Industrial Processing and Oil & Gas Industries 5. Superior Accuracy Thanks to its 9 Point Linearisation 6. Up to 1/2 a Mile Wireless Range! 7. Long Battery Life up to 5 Years 8. OEM Options to Fit Inside Sensors 9. Fast Setup – Software Calibration in Less Than 3 Minutes! 10. FREE Logging Software 11. Expandable Wireless System into Safe Zones With T24 Telemetry Instrumentation 12. Fast Transmission Rates of 200 per Second 13. Multiple Channel Setup for Site-Wide Monitoring

@AppMeas #PAuto #Wireless

Strain gauge with wireless.

Sensor Technology has a new range of transmitters that can add wireless capabilities to any make of strain gauge. The WSG series transmitters allow any manufacturer’s strain gauge to send readings to their wide range of displays and readouts, which can be located at a distance from the gauge itself.

Alternatively, they can be used with Sensor Technology’s PC-based software so that, as well as direct read out, analysis and interpretation can be completed instantly.

The transmitters are for use with 350 ohm strain gauges and above. Calibration data is set using simple interface software. The wireless signal transmission is based on the unrestricted 2.4GHz technology, so does not need an operating licence.

In use because there is no need to install and protect long cable runs from the gauge to the readout, the WSG units create a versatile and easy to install system. This also makes it simple to move the equipment between installations if required.

There are various models available within the range. The WSG-STD unit is DIN rail mountable and powered by a standard 11-32V DIN rail supply. The WSG-STM variant is designed for bench or wall mounting and has an internal rechargeable battery; it also has a socket so that it can also be powered from an external 11-32V supply.

Both versions have a USB port for connection for a PC.

@sensortech  #PAuto #Wireless

High temperature strain gauges.

Through its collaboration with the Japanese manufacturer Kyowa Electronic Instruments, HBM – a market leader in the field of test and measurement – is pleased to announce the arrival of its new KFU series of strain gauges for high temperatures of up to 350°C.

Suitable for structural tests at exceptionally high temperatures, the latest series of KFU strain gauges are pre-wired and come equipped with a 1 meter long, high temperature protection cable.

Available in grid lengths of 2 mm and 5 mm as well as in different versions, such as linear, T (with two measuring grids) or R (with three measuring grids) rosettes, depending on the application’s requirements, the KFU strain gauges are also available with temperature responses matched to steel, austenitic steel, and aluminium.

The latest series of strain gauges can be used at high temperatures for specified durations; at 350 °C for 72 hours or at 300 °C for 360 hours. Typical applications include strain measurements in autoclaves or environments with steam.

The KFU strain gauge series are the first products manufactured by HBM in collaboration with the Japanese manufacturer Kyowa Electronic Instruments. This cooperation of two technology leaders enabled HBM to complement its range of products with additional, fascinating sensors, such as those for very high temperatures, and offer these to clients in future.

 #HBM #PAuto

Strain guide!

HBM has launched its new Online Guide to Strain Measurement which contains a wealth of practical information and valuable tips from industry leading experts.

The new online portal, which looks at selection, installation, data acquisition, and analysis of electrical as well as optical strain gauges - namely those based on Fiber Bragg Grating technology (FBG) -, provides users with an easy and intuitive step-by-step guide.

Strain gauges have been around for almost 80 years and continue to be key assets for measuring fatigue and testing materials for productivity and safety reasons. However, when it comes to strain measurement, businesses and asset owners can sometimes feel intimidated due to a lack of information, or even information overload and might give up their attempts to learn more about this topic. The effects of this could jeopardise future decisions when it comes to choosing the right measuring instrument, which could in turn, lead to potential financial implications.

Featuring easy to find dedicated sections, the new online portal from HBM provides answers to some of the most talked about questions on strain measurement. For further reference, the guide also includes a list of links to relevant webinars and case studies to illustrate potential applications. Featuring a comprehensive format, the new portal from HBM is regularly maintained to provide users with the most up to date information possible.

HBM has been a leader in Strain Gauges for over 60 years. Its extensive range allows for an exceptionally wide range of differing strain measurement applications, from experimental stress analysis, durability testing through to transducer manufacturing. Additionally, HBM provides all the necessary accessories and components for the installation of Strain Gauges, for maximum convenience. HBM also supports its customers with training and contract installation to ensure optimum operational usage.

@HBMmeasurement #Pauto 

Lift and platform weighing sensors.

As part of its comprehensive range of load cells, strain gauges and force sensors, ZEMIC Europe offers complete weighing kits for straightforward installation on elevators and weighing platforms where safety and overload protection, added passenger comfort and lift availability are critical factors. The economically priced kits are available in Britain from Variohm EuroSensor and are designed for cabin, under-spring and into-spring installation. They include durable load cells, wiring, connection box, and a pre-calibrated weighing indicator with relay outputs.

By combining these separate ZEMIC components as a complete and ready to install kit, user advantages include guaranteed system accuracy and reliability through factory production. This also contributes to extremely keen pricing for the elevator kits which start from around £200.00.

For the cabin installation version, four 70 mm diameter load cells provide an accuracy class of 0.5% and a total load capacity of 4000 kg. With a temperature compensated working range of -30 to +50 ⁰C plus a short time overload of 300%, the load cell performance will suit a wide range of elevator car and user-customised platform weighing applications. Relay outputs are pre-set for 90% of the full load capacity without stopping or 110% (alternatively 110% + 75kg) overload. A third relay indicates a >15 kg load for unaccompanied light goods or child passenger availability. Furthermore there is an energy saving potential where motor power regulation can be included in-line with actual measured load.

Further specifications for the compression load cells include full Wheatstone bridge circuitry encapsulated in durable aluminium housings with IP65 humidity protection. With integrated rubber pillows for dynamic overload protection, their round shape does not depend the angle of the applied load - compensating for parasitic non-axial force effects.

The ‘plug-and-play’ cabin weighing kit includes four 1.6 m long cables terminated in a sturdy junction box with a pluggable connector to each load cell and a separate 5 m long cable connecting to a pre-configured Top-Sensors EWS-1 weighing indicator.

The under-springs and into-springs versions have a similar kit construction with the appropriate number of load cells to suit the application - in line with elevator or platform load requirements. Details the complete range including full specifications, load cell dimensions, wiring etc. are available, as individual datasheets or as a combined brochure covering all three installation types, from Variohm EuroSensor who provide complete technical support across the entire ZEMIC range.

@Variohm  #PAuto 

Strain gauge webinar.

Following on from a successful series of webinars, HBM has announced the date for its latest free webinar, ‘Minimising Measurement Uncertainty: how to set up strain gauge based precision measurement chains’, which will take place on February 22nd 2018 at 9am (GMT).

Aimed at all measurement engineers in charge of planning or taking measurements, as well as users performing measurement data analysis, this latest webinar from the HBM Academy, will offer a general introduction to strain gauge based high precision measuring chains and is designed to help individuals choose the right reference transducers (force, torque and pressure).

Presented by Dr. André Schäfer, Development Manager for High Precision Measurement Chains at HBM, this 30 minute webinar will discuss the factors which can influence strain gauge based measurements and reveal the requirements for precision bridge amplifiers. Also offering a selection of valuable tips and tricks, this webinar will also provide participants with a series of practical application exercises.

Designed to fit in with the challenging time constraints, which can often make attending relevant training courses difficult, this webinar can also be easily accessed at a later date or simply used as a refresher course. As an added benefit, all registered participants will receive a link to the webinar, via email, after the presentation.

All HBM webinars are free of charge and open to anyone, regardless of experience. However, spaces are limited and are available on a first come, first served basis.

@HBMmeasurement  #PAuto

Safe Strain Gauge Load Cell Product Families.

BLH Nobel has announced that four of its strain gage load cell product families are now available with EN ISO 13849 and IEC 61508 functional safety certifications.

The EN ISO 13849 functional safety standard incorporates statistical analysis to help better predict component, device and circuitry reliability within the safety-related parts of industrial machinery control systems. This determination represents the probability of failure to danger over time, expressed as a performance level (PL). The IEC 61508 standard for electrical/electronic/programmable electronic safety-related systems further defines methods to achieve product functional safety. This allows OEMs to demonstrate a certain overall safety integrity level (SIL) within their system designs.

The strain gage load cell product families from BLH Nobel now available with functional safety certifications include models with or without current loop output, as well as those featuring redundant configurations. Most families with functional safety certifications are further available with ATEX, CSA, FM, IECEx, cFMus and CE approvals. These certifications allow the BLH Nobel load cells to be specified within a wider range of critical applications, including crane weighing and overload monitoring; process industry weighing and monitoring; offshore tank weighing; machinery monitoring; and safety-critical weighing and force measurements.

For more than 40 years, the BLH Nobel brand of VPG has specialized in the design, development and manufacture of high-quality and high-accuracy process weighing and force measurement technologies and related control systems. BLH Nobel load cells maximize accuracy and minimize the effects of mixing, agitation, and temperature changes within critical process stages. BLH Nobel products and customized solutions are designed to comply with stringent requirements in the food and beverage, pulp and paper, pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical equipment, process, mining, steel, and offshore industries. The brand further offers a wide variety of communication protocols for seamless integration within complex production lines. It also supplies system solutions, products, and services in more than 100 countries worldwide. Each BLH Nobel custom solution is derived from more than 40 years of engineering expertise, gained from across thousands of successful applications.

@blhnobel #Pauto

Celebrating strain gauge birthday!

To help start the celebrations for the 80^th anniversary of the strain gauge, which will take place next year; HBM is running a series of webinars, which will take place on 14 -17 November 2017 at 9am.

Starting with “An Introduction to Measurements using Strain Gauges”, on November 14^th 2017, this webinar is the ideal opportunity to get your first introduction into strain gauges or simply brush up on your existing knowledge.  Reflecting on the history and development of the strain gauge over the years, “An Introduction to Measurements using Strain Gauges” will discuss the pros and cons of using strain gauges, before looking at the many different kinds of applications available in the area of experimental stress analysis. 

Usually applied to measuring bodies using adhesives, “Selecting the Right Strain Gauges, Adhesives and Covering Agents” will explain how to select the correct adhesive, depending on the material and temperature range.  Taking place at 9am on Wednesday November 15^th 2017, participants can find out which kind of strain gauge is suitable for different types of applications, learn about the difference between cold and hot curing adhesives and discover how to choose and apply the correct adhesive, based on the measurement task to hand. 

When it comes to measuring the resistance change in a strain gauge with the Wheatstone Bridge, “Applying the Wheatstone Bridge Circuit with Strain Gauges” which takes place on Thursday 16^th November 2017 at 9am, will guide individuals through the basics.  This webinar will look at how to distinguish between the Wheatstone bridge circuit in quarter, half and full bridge circuits and explain the different measurement applications.  Participants will also be given the opportunity to learn more about the possibilities of temperature compensation by using the Wheatstone bridge circuit.

Concluding the week with “How to Properly Install Strain Gauges” on Friday 17^th November 2017 at 9am, this webinar will focus on the steps which need to be considered when installing strain gauges; from understanding the requirements of the underlying material, to the preparation of the surface and finally; to the choice of the correct adhesive.  Including practical installation tips and tricks, this webinar will also offer participants the chance to learn which optical and electrical tests can be carried out after having installed the strain gauges.

Presented live by Dirk Eberlein, Application Engineer and Product Manager for Strain Gauges at HBM, each webinar takes a maximum of 30 minutes and can be easily accessed at a later date or simply used as a refresher course.  As an added benefit, all registered participants will receive a link to the webinar, via email, after the presentation.  All HBM webinars are free of charge.  However, spaces are limited and are available on a first come, first served basis. 

Book Here!

@HBMmeasurement #PAuto 

Strain gauge bonding service.

Applied Measurements offer a complete design, bonding and wiring service from one-off projects to high volume applications. What’s more, they can even bond and wire onto their customers' own free-issued hardware.

Their In-House strain gauging team provides:

• Dedicated In-House Bonding Room
• Expert Guidance an Advice
• Full Design, Bonding & Wiring Service
• One-Off to High Volume
• Delivery Dates to Suit You
• Temperature Compensation
• Protective Coatings
• Signal Conditioning Integration
• Special Environmental Protection Options
• High Temperature Versions for use at up to 200°C!

In-house strain gauge facility
All train gauge bonding is carried out in their strictly controlled on-site strain gauging room. The temperature, humidity and airflow are continually monitored to ensure optimum gauging conditions.

Flawless bond
A flawless bond is guaranteed by our strict ultrasonic cleaning procedures and use of special adhesives. The bond is carried out immediately after surface cleaning and, along with high accuracy marking techniques, delivers precise positioning and optimum sensing performance.

Design consultation
A complete design, strain gauge and wiring service is offered to meet exacting needs. They offer full, half and quarter bridge configurations, metalwork heat treatment, preparation and machining, bead blasting, anodising, and welcome enquiries for strain gauging requirements.

@AppMeas #PAuto 

Taking the strain out of USB strain modules!

The FSU-SSB innovative fast USB strain module has been released by Mantracourt Electronics.

Aimed at the precision-orientated Test & Measurement sector, the very competitively priced FSU-SSB is designed to thrive when coupled with dynamic, fast-moving applications that require ultra-high speed measurements. The benefits of the device are certain to be invaluable in the areas of impact, drop, vibration, materials and non-rotational torque testing.

The FSU-SSB simply connects to a PC (via a USB port) and offers a host of features that are sure to make it the go-to product in the field. It’s seriously fast, taking 4800 samples per second, and hugely reliable with a temperature drift of only 5ppm/°C – a fraction of that demonstrated elsewhere in the sector. Accuracy is key with this speedy (and simple to setup) product. A non-linearity reading of 25 ppm sets the FSU-SSB way ahead of the pack – providing unparalleled peace of mind (and value for money) to users.

“Accuracy and precision are what we do best, here at Mantracourt,” says Kelly Voysey, Sales & Marketing Manager at Mantracourt. “We’re always pushing the envelope, and with the FSU-SSB we’ve redefined what exactitude can mean in this sector.”

The device is based on the popular USB strain module (the DSCUSB) which combines high stability and superior performance at a lower rate of 100 samples per second. The DSCUSB remains a perfect choice for lower speed applications.
The FSU-SSB’s operating system builds on the strengths of its predecessors to offer superior functionality and user-friendliness. The Toolkit is free to customers – a gesture that shows the importance Mantracourt places in maintaining life-long relationships.

The powerful, intuitive, feature rich, Toolkit has many outstanding elements. It gives real-time data-analysis, automatically calibrates and captures up to 30 minutes of data at 4800 samples per second. Innovative Scope, FFT frequency analysis allows users to visualise data and establish patterns. The Toolkit’s intuitive navigation and features, combined with key functionality (such as the ability to highlight data of interest and delete unwanted data), confirm the FSU-SSB’s position as the one to beat.

“We’ve been leaders in this field for over 40 years. We constantly invest in people, skills, equipment and product development. That cycle is a central part of our DNA. By obsessively paying attention to details and working closely with our clients, we maximise efficiency. That’s why we can produce products like the FSU-SSB at such a great price.”

The FSU-SSB is just the latest in a long list of innovative products that Mantracourt is justifiably proud of. “The uniquely productive ecosystem we’ve set up, here in the south-west of England,” says Kelly Voysey, “means we’ve taken the strain out of USB strain modules!”

 @mantracourt #PAuto

Inline strain gauge amplifier.

Interface Force Measurements has announced the launch of the ITA-1 (Click-R Clack-R) analogue strain gauge amplifier. This new product is used to convert a sensor’s millivolt signal into an analogue signal for display or data acquisition. This simple, yet innovative product is connected to the sensor in line via a 5-pin, M12 connector.

The ITA-1 can be connected to any force, strain, torque or pressure sensor that supplies a millivolt output signal, either voltage or current. When supplied with an Interface load cell or torque transducer, the ITA-1 comes factory configured to the correct output however, set-up can be modified using the tare and scale cables. It is also TEDS enabled, so enabling easy configuration with TEDS-equipped load cells.

 #InterfaceForce #PAuto 

Coping with high temperatures!

The latest range of C Series Strain Gauges (SG’s) from HBM, is specifically developed to cope with modern temperatures (below 250 ° C) and minimise strain due to expansion.

Strain measurement at high temperature are among the most difficult issues for test engineers, as the basic strain gauge can often not distinguish between strain imposed by the intended mechanical process and expansion of the test material, due to its temperature coefficient of expansion.

As temperature changes during a measurement with strain gauges, this can have undesirable effects on the result. With this in mind, the latest range of Strain Gauges from HBM has been specifically developed for high and low temperatures from -269° C to +250 ° C – and is available with various geometries and temperature adjustments.

Featuring good mechanical flexibility and optimum adaption to the material measured, the measuring grid of the latest C Series consists of a distinctive, chrome-nickel alloy on a polyimide foil and is ideal for structural tests at exceptional temperature conditions.

Also suitable for applications in research and development, the automotive industry, and power plants and superconductors, the latest C Series of Strain Gauges provides a flexible and cost effective solution for tests in both high and low temperature environments.

@HBMmeasurement #PAuto

Extensometer for vehicular safety applications.

The VPG Transducers brand of Vishay Precision has announced the global market introduction of its Model 182 extensometer, a specialty high-performance strain gage-based force sensor, expressly designed for industrial, EN15000 and EN280 compliant off-highway vehicle and equipment safety applications.

The Model 182 extensometer accurately measures deformation, or changes in the length of a solid structural body, with a 500 μƐ full-scale sensing range and necessary redundancy for EN15000 and EN280 compliance in safety applications. Its robust design consists of a high-quality strain gage sensing element, housed in a highly corrosion resistant coated alloy steel, with mounting via two bolt holes (M10 12.9 required). Units are IP67 rated for dust and moisture protection, ensuring their continued reliability and repeatability in demanding environments. Multiple output choices, including mV/V, 4-20 mA and 0-10 V, are available as standard, along with alternate connection options. For vehicle safety applications, customers can select from either a CAN Open or SAE J1939 protocol, with further choice of a DT or M12 connector. Please consult VPG Transducers for details.

Typical applications for the Model 182 include off-highway vehicle, telescopic handler and lifting machinery measurements. The extensometer is especially well-suited for applications where safety and device stability are of critical importance for operator injury risk mitigation and prevention, including where stringent vehicle compliance with EN15000 and EN280 standards may be required. It may be further specified for the accurate onboard vehicle machinery and chassis safety monitoring of construction equipment, scissor lifts, boom lifts, forklifts, and materials handling equipment. Here, the extensometer effectively supports various lifting and loading scenarios, including overload measurements.

 @VishayIndust #VPG #Transportation