TML strain gauges available in Australia and New Zealand from Bestech Australia are used not only for strain measurement but also as sensors for strain gauge-type transducers.
Strain gauge-type transducers convert various physical quantities into mechanical strains of a spring element. Strain gauges convert these mechanical strains into an electrical output.
Strain gauge-type transducers include:
- Load cells (Force transducers)
- Pressure transducers
- Acceleration transducers
- Displacement transducers
- Torque transducers
By selecting an appropriate structure for the spring element and maximising the features of TML strain gauges, various types of good strain gauge-type transducers can be designed and manufactured for use in a wide range of measurement and control applications.
Designing a spring element is the first step in the production of a transducer, followed by the selection of the strain gauge, adhesive and coating material. Important factors to consider are operational environment like temperature and required accuracy.
Grid pattern
Various patterns are available to meet the shape of spring element and bridge configuration.
Resistance
- Single element: Tension/compression, bending, shearing
- 2-element: 90° cross, torque
- Full bridge: bending, shearing, diaphragm
Resistance values of 120Ω, 175Ω, 350Ω and 1000Ω are available. The 120 Ω and 350Ω resistance are most commonly used in general purpose transducers.
Sensing element material
Similar to stress measurement gauges, Cu-Ni alloy is generally used for the sensing element of transducer-specific strain gauges. Ni-Cr alloy is used for strain gauges used in transducers for high temperature.
Strain gauge backing material
Unlike stress measurement gauges, the backing material of transducer-specific strain gauges cannot be determined solely by the operational temperature and bonding method. The characteristics of the spring element have to be taken into account for strain gauge selection.
Creep compensation
The creep characteristics are important for strain gauge-type transducers. In general, the creep is compensated by the combination of material creep and gauge creep, which cancel each other. Strain gauges having different creep characteristics are prepared for respective transducer-specific strain gauge.