Optical Strain Gages

Optimized for outdoor installations on steel structures, the stainless steel carrier of the os3150 and os3155 holds the FBG in tension (without epoxy) and protects the fiber during installation. The os3155 includes a second integrated FBG for temperature compensation, providing more accurate and lower cost temperature compensation. For temperature compensation with the os3150, an FBG temperature sensors such as the os4350 can be connected in series.

Installation is easy and requires just a few minutes. Since the gages are welded in place, they can be used immediately after attachment without waiting for adhesives to cure. Armored cables lead to and from each gage, making both installation and fiber protection fast and easy. Optional protection fittings help prevent damage to series connections even in harsh environments. This enables fast reliable field connections to other optical strain, displacement or temperature sensors on the same fiber. The entire strain gage package is typically covered with a protective material to complete installation for long term protection

In side-by-side comparisons with foil strain gages, the os3150 and os3155 sensors are equally sensitive and accurate, while providing for greater strain range and 100 times more fatigue life. The optical strain gages are qualified for use in harsh environments and deliver the many advantages inherent to fiber optic sensors.