Get trained in strain measurement techniques

The Micro-Measurements courses will provide hands-on training for those who use, plan, supervise or instruct others in stress analysis techniques. Courses being conducted in 2015 include sessions focusing on strain gauges, instrumentation and transducers.

The two-day Strain Gauge workshop will serve as an introduction to strain gauges and their terminology. The Wheatstone bridge and its uses will be discussed, in addition to surface preparation techniques, adhesive systems, leadwire attachment techniques and the testing of gauge installations.

In the Instrumentation workshop, basic systems and the Wheatstone bridge will be reviewed. Participants will learn about multiple-channel systems, signal-to-noise ratios, ADCs, dynamic data acquisition, aliasing and filters, constant voltage and current, leadwire effects and instrument calibration and linearity.

The Transducer workshop will explore the basic Wheatstone bridge, in addition to bending, tension/compression and shear and torsion measurements. Topics covered will include choosing materials, gauges and adhesives. The workshop will also include a practical session on bonding and wiring. Simple compensation techniques will be reviewed, as well as testing, protection and calibration.