NIOSH Mining Laboratory

Data gathering instruments being designed and constructed

Click photo for larger image.

The Instrumentation Laboratory is used for the application of strain gauge technology to a variety of surfaces in order to determine the amount of force being exerted on that material during field testing and experimentation. This is essential for determining both static and dynamic loads being applied to rock structures and prototype equipment. The laboratory has the capability to apply strain gauges, either by spot welding or by gluing, to a variety of surfaces to include steel, aluminum, rock samples, etc. The laboratory also has the capability to wire the gauges to electronic connectors that are compatible with various data-loggers that capture strain data over extended periods of time. The equipment in the laboratory includes various types of soldering tools, small tweezers and probes to apply and wire strain gauges and ovens to cure the special epoxy cement used in applying the strain gauges.

Site:  Spokane Research Laboratory