Introduction
Elastomeric force gauges, or extensometers, is an efficient and reliable way to measure the force exerted on a material by an applied load. This is an important aspect of industrial and civil engineering as it affects the construction and stability of structures. The calculations of force from an extensometer allow engineers to design objects that are able to withstand the force applied to them, and keep them maintain their integrity under a certain amount of force.
Types of Extensometers
There are three main types of extensometers which are used to measure forces. These include mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical. All of these gauges measure the force of the load by calculating the amount of displacement from the original position of the measured material.
The mechanical type of extensometer includes a spring or a thread round which can be two or four-point. Mechanical extensometer can measure different levels of pressure, from low to very high loads. The instrument is controlled by a mechanical hand or foot operated brake or actuator.
The pneumatic type has hollow cylinders, with a non-reactive air-filled shaft. A pressure gauge reads the amount of pressure applied to the material, enabling the measurement of compressive force. The instrument is powered by a compressor, gas or air cylinder.
The electrical type has electrodes that measure the force applied to the material by direct-induction. In this type, an electrical current is applied to the material, varying it in the presence of a magnetic field. The instrument can measure an extremely wide range of forces, ranging from low to very high pressure.
Methods
Extensometers measures forces in three main ways. These include compression, tension, and shear methods.
The compression method is used to measure the force applied to a material when it is being compressed. Compression force gauges have a mechanical or pneumatic device that presses the material and measures the amount of deformation or displacement, relative to the original position.
Tension testing is used to measure the force applied to a material when it is stretched, such as during metal folding or metal tubing. In tension testing, a mechanical or pneumatic load cell is connected to the material to measure the force applied to it during the test.
The shear method is used to measure forces applied when the material is being sheared or cut. Shear force gauges measure the specific angle at which the material is being cut, thus providing an accurate measurement of the force being applied.
Applications
Extensometers have a variety of applications in the industry, ranging from structural engineering to production testing.
Extensometers are used in structural engineering to measure the forces applied to buildings, bridges, tunnels, and other structures. This is important as it allows engineers to more accurately design and build structures that can withstand the load and remain intact.
Extensometers are also used in the production and testing of materials, such as rubber or plastic. This ensures that the material meets the necessary quality and safety standards, before mass-production begins.
Conclusion
Extensometers are a vital tool for evaluating the forces applied to a material. There are three types of extensometers - mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical - which are used in a variety of applications including structural engineering and production testing. With the use of extensometers, engineers and production personnel can ensure that the materials they are using meet the necessary safety and quality standards.
