Strain Gauges Applications Strain Gauges for Steel: Weldable strain gauges measure strain in  steel. Typical applications include: Monitoring stresses in structural members of buildings, bridges, tunnel  linings and supports during and after construction. Monitoring the performance of in wall anchors and other post-tensioned  support systems. Monitoring loads in strutting systems for deep excavations. Measuring strain in tunnel linings and supports. Monitoring areas of concentrated stress in pipelines. Monitoring distribution of load in pile tests. Strain Gauges for Concrete: Embedment strain gauges  measure strain in concrete. Typical applications include: Measuring strains in reinforced concrete and mass concrete. Measuring curing strains. Monitoring for changes in load. Measuring strain in tunnel linings and supports. Types of Strain Gauges VW Spot-Weldable Strain  Gauge Designed to measure strain in steel, this vibrating wire  strain gauge is spot-welded to the surface of the steel. A sensor is then fixed  atop the gauge. Readings are obtained with a readout such as the DataMate MP or  with a data logger. Advantages: Patented low-profile design reduces errors caused by bending, low  cost, requires very little surface preparation, pre-tensioned, very durable,  reliable VW signal transmission, built-in temperature sensor. Limitations: Requires spot-welder, sensor must be protected if installed on  driven piles, not suitable for high-speed dynamic measurements. VW Arc-Weldable Strain  Gauge Designed to measure strain in steel, this vibrating wire  strain gauge of two weldable mounting blocks and the strain gauge itself. The  blocks are arc-welded to the surface, and the strain gauge is installed when the  blocks cool. Readings are obtained with a readout or data logger. Advantages: Wire tension can be adjusted to maximize available range,  requires very little surface preparation, can be repositioned easily, very  durable, reliable VW signal transmission, built-in temperature sensor. Limitations: Higher profile than spot-weldable gauge, not suitable for  high-speed dynamic measurements. VW Embedment Strain Gauge Designed to measure strain in reinforced concrete or mass concrete, this  vibrating wire strain gauge is typically tied to a reinforcing cage. In mass  concrete, gauges are sometimes configured in a rosette. Readings are obtained  with a readout or data logger. Advantages: Unique design provides superior conformance and minimizes  inclusion effects, reliable VW signal transmission, built-in temperature sensor,  durable, rosette blocks available, available in 6 and 10 inch lengths. Limitations: Cost is higher than embedment strain gauges.