Stress Analysis and Load Measurement Course

The Stress Analysis and Load Measurement course provides instruction on the siting of strain gauges and the choice of gauge systems; it covers strain measurement, the correction of measured data, the determination of stress and yield load, the use of full-bridge circuits, the principal features of common load cells and the refinement of the bridge circuit.

The course uses lectures and hands-on experience to provide participants with a deeper understanding of strain measurement, in order to improve the accuracy of data they use in the determination of stress levels and critical loads in structural components, and to appreciate design features incorporated in devices used to measure load. Previous experience with strain gauges is essential.

The Stress Analysis and Load Measurement course provides an appropriate preparation for certification at Level 3.

Registration

Please check the upcoming Training and Certification events for dates of the next course.

Hands-on sessions form an important element of the course and it is therefore necessary to restrict the group size to about 10. Because places are limited, please complete the registration form with your details and preferred options. On receipt of your application, the Chair of the Certification Committee will contact you to confirm your registration or discuss with you the options of a future date. 

All courses can be taken independently and taking an exam is optional.

Programme

Day 1 

09.00 Registration and introduction 
Strain and strain measurement methods 
Quarter-bridge circuits: introduction and practice
12.15 Lunch
13.00 – 16.45 Long-leadwire circuits: introduction and practice  
Quarter-bridge calibration: introduction and practice 
Correction of measured strains 
Strain variation with position and orientation 
Shear strain and principal strains

Day 2 

09.00 Shear stress and normal stress from measured strain.
Yielding of components.
Residual strain and stress.
Practical determination of stress and yield load. 
12.15 Lunch
13.00 – 16.45 Full-bridge circuits: introduction and practice.  

Day 3 

09.00 Circuit design for load measurement using a structural component.
Bridge balancing and sensitivity adjustment.
Elimination of temperature-induced changes.  
12.15 Lunch
13.00 – 16.30 Practical force measurement systems. 
Load cell bodies. 
Gauges, resistors, adhesives and protection for load cells.

Certification

The measurement of strain through the medium of a strain gauge depends for its success on a proper and acceptable installation of the strain gauge itself. For structural testing, design evaluation and sensor operation the installation of strain gauges is a skilled operation which requires considerable practical ability and know-how on the part of the installer. A poorly positioned or inadequate installation, resulting in erroneous measurements being taken, could turn out ultimately to have disastrous consequences.

The provisions of modern day consumer protection legislation and the requirements of various safety regulations make it necessary for critical measurements on components and structures to be carried out to an approved standard by competent persons who are qualified in the best techniques available.

To demonstrate your competence as a strain gauge user you should hold a BSSM Certificate. The certification scheme operates at three levels and complies with the European Standard EN473:1993. The levels cater for staff with a wide range of competencies and responsibilities, from strain gauge installation to analysis and design.

Venue Information

To be confirmed