A Strain-gage Transducer for Measuring Strains in Composite Materials

The design and testing of a strain-gauge transducer for use on advanced composite materials are reported. The device contains a semicircular Al-alloy spring of tapered cross section which contacts the specimen at its end points (gauge length = 2 in), telescoping spring-loaded arms joining the spring...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Experimental techniques (Westport, Conn.) Conn.), 1983-05, Vol.7 (5), p.22-25
Main Authors: CEDERBERG, A.R., FORAL, R.F.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Analysing. Testing. Standards
Applied sciences
Exact sciences and technology
Metals. Metallurgy
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Summary:The design and testing of a strain-gauge transducer for use on advanced composite materials are reported. The device contains a semicircular Al-alloy spring of tapered cross section which contacts the specimen at its end points (gauge length = 2 in), telescoping spring-loaded arms joining the spring element to the Al housing, and resistance strain gauges on the inner and outer surfaces of the element. A separate calibration and cyclic-testing device is also described. The transducer constant was found in 600-cycle, + or - 2.5-percent-strain tests to vary less than 0.5 percent, and less than 1.3 percent in 100,000-cycle fatigue tests. The transducer was used in combination with other devices on filament-wound composite-laminate structures including 3-in-diameter tubes and internally pressurized 7-in-diameter cylindrical pressure vessels. Reliable and accurate measurements were obtained. The application techniques and some material-related problems are discussed, and sample strain data are shown.
ISSN:0732-8818
1747-1567
DOI:10.1111/j.1747-1567.1983.tb01756.x