Level 2 Certification

Strain Analysis Course (4 day)

The Strain Analysis course provides an introduction to electrical resistance strain gauges and the associated circuits for strain measurement and transducer applications. It covers the installation of foil gauges using cyanoacrylate and epoxy adhesives, inspection of installations, the measurement of strain and load, and the use of rosettes to determine principal values.

The course uses lectures, demonstrations and practical tasks to provide participants with a good understanding of electrical resistance strain gauges, the selection and use of gauges and circuits for strain measurement and transducer applications, the positioning of gauges, and the methods used to install and test gauges and circuits. Some previous strain gauge experience is desirable.

Pre-exam Seminar

A one-day seminar is normally held about two weeks before each examination, so that candidates can make installations under examination conditions and discuss procedures, techniques and the sample written questions with an experienced engineer. It is normally held at the examination venue. 

Examination

The objective of the examination is to enable candidates to demonstrate that they use procedures consistent with the Code of Practice, and are able to direct the installation of gauges, choose appropriate gauges, materials and methods, and make measurements using gauges. 


The examination is divided into two parts: 


• A practical test

• A written test 


 The practical test forms the main part of the examination and contains three tasks:

• A gauge bonding and full-bridge wiring installation 

• Preparation of instructions for bonding gauges 

• A measurement exercise using pre-installed gauges 


 The written test has two sections: 


• A general section, containing questions based on general knowledge of strain measurement, solid mechanics and materials 

• A section dealing with points which can arise when gauges are being installed and used 


Renewal of Certification

The award is valid for 5 years.

At the end of each 5 year period, a practical test must be taken and a review of recent strain measurement experience must be submitted. The practical test will involve design of gauge installations, installation of the gauges and wiring, and measurement using the gauges. It will not include the writing of instructions.
Candidates will normally do the tasks at their workplace, under the supervision of a senior colleague, who will be required to confirm the candidate’s experience and that the renewal tasks were done by the candidate. There is not a limit on the time taken to do the tasks. An examiner will assess the test samples and documentation, and note the type of work normally undertaken.

Documents and Forms

Code of Practice for the Installation of Electrical Resistance Strain Gauges Certification of Strain Measurement Personnel Level 2 - Details of Certification Scheme

The Society also publishes a Code of Practice for the installation of electrical resistance strain gauges, a copy of which is issued to everyone registered for the examination. Candidates are expected to observe this code and use it in conjunction with the instruction sheets provided by gauge manufacturers and suppliers. The Society also publishes Installation Record Sheets; copies are provided for use during the examination.