01What is a strain gauge?

  • A strain gauge is a thin metallic foil or wire that is bonded to the surface of an object.
  • When the object is subjected to an external force or deformation, the strain gauge experiences a change in its length and diameter.
  • This change in dimensions of the strain gauge can be measured and correlated to the strain experienced by the object.

02Preparing the surface

  • Before attaching the strain gauge, the surface of the object needs to be prepared.
  • The surface should be clean, dry, and free from any contaminants.
  • Any rust, paint, or grease should be removed using appropriate cleaning solvents or sandpaper.
  • Once the surface is prepared, it should be wiped with a lint-free cloth to ensure no residue is left.

03Applying the strain gauge

  • The next step is to apply the strain gauge on the prepared surface.
  • The strain gauge should be carefully placed on the surface in the desired location.
  • It should be aligned parallel to the expected direction of strain.
  • The strain gauge should be firmly attached using a suitable adhesive or bonding agent.
  • Excess adhesive should be removed, and the strain gauge should be left undisturbed for the recommended curing time.

04Connecting the strain gauge

  • Once the strain gauge is properly attached, the next step is to connect it to a suitable measuring instrument.
  • The measuring instrument is usually a bridge circuit, which measures the change in resistance of the strain gauge.
  • The strain gauge is connected to the bridge circuit using lead wires.
  • The connections should be secure and free from any loose ends or short circuits.

05Applying the load

  • With the strain gauge properly connected, the object can now be subjected to the desired load or deformation.
  • The load should be applied gradually, and the corresponding readings from the measuring instrument should be recorded.
  • It is important to ensure that the load is distributed evenly and that the strain gauge is not subjected to any bending or twisting forces.

06Calculating the strain

  • Using the recorded readings from the measuring instrument, the strain experienced by the object can be calculated.
  • The change in resistance of the strain gauge can be converted to strain using calibration factors specific to the strain gauge.
  • This calculated strain can then be used to analyze the behavior of the object under load.

Conclusion

Measuring strain using a strain gauge is a precise and reliable method that provides valuable insights into the behavior of objects under load or deformation. By following the step-by-step process discussed in this article, one can accurately measure strain and gain a deeper understanding of the mechanical properties of materials.

MethodsDetails
Step 1Understand what a strain gauge is and how it measures strain
Step 2Prepare the surface of the object by cleaning and removing contaminants
Step 3Carefully apply the strain gauge on the prepared surface
Step 4Connect the strain gauge to a suitable measuring instrument
Step 5Apply the desired load or deformation to the object
Step 6Calculate the strain using the recorded readings and calibration factors
measure strain
strain gauge
engineering
materials science
biomechanics