HBM is launching the K-OR optical strain gauge rosette, which, at just 43 x 47mm in size, is claimed to be one of the smallest devices of its type. The K-OR rosette comprises three measuring grids - at angles of 0, 60 and 120 degrees - which enables the absolute value and direction of mechanical stresses to be defined.
Optical strain gauges are based on 'fibre Bragg gratings' and use light to measure strain. This makes them highly suitable for applications where it is inadvisable to use conventional electrical strain gauges. Typical applications include, for example, those in potentially explosive atmospheres and areas where there is high voltage or powerful electromagnetic interference.
Optical strain gauges are also useful for materials testing of fibre composites because tests of up to 10million load cycles with a strain of +/-5.000um/m are now possible. In contrast, conventional electrical strain gauges are not able to meet such requirements.
Detecting measurement data with optical strain gages is easy and HBM offers a comprehensive range of equipment and accessories to simplify data capture and subsequent analysis from a single source. These include interrogators through to the data acquisition software catmanAP, which includes a special EasyOptics module for optical strain gages.
Follow the link for more information about the K-OR optical strain gauge rosette.
Millbrook Proving Ground
Station Lane
MK45 2RA
UNITED KINGDOM
+44 (0)1525 304980