1、 Installation and Debugging

1. Strain gauge pasting
   • surface treatmentEnsure that the surface being tested is clean, smooth, and free of oil stains. Use sandpaper to polish and wipe with alcohol to improve the quality of adhesion.
   • Pasting processUse specialized glue (such as 502 glue or epoxy resin), apply evenly and avoid bubbles, and the curing time should meet the requirements of the glue.
   • Lead protectionThe leads should be fixed and avoided from pulling to prevent breakage during the testing process.
2. Instrument connection
   • Wiring correctnessStrictly follow the instructions to connect the strain gauge to the instrument channel, avoiding reverse connection or short circuit.
   • Half bridge/full bridge configurationSelect the bridge type (such as 1/4 bridge, half bridge, full bridge) according to the testing requirements to ensure that the compensating plate matches the working plate.
   • temperature compensationIf the ambient temperature changes significantly, temperature compensation chips or software compensation functions need to be used.
3. instrument calibration
   • zero point calibrationPerform zero calibration under no-load conditions to eliminate initial errors.
   • Sensitivity calibrationUse standard strain gauges or known loads for sensitivity calibration to ensure accurate readings.

2、 Operating standards

1. loading and unloading
   • Slow loadingTo avoid damage to strain gauges or the tested structure caused by impact loads.
   • Uniform loadingEnsure even load distribution and avoid local stress concentration.
   • Multiple measurementsMultiple measurements of key data points are taken and averaged to reduce random errors.
2. environmental control
   • temperature effectAvoid high or low temperature environments (such as>80 ℃ or<-20 ℃), and use insulation or heating devices if necessary.
   • humidity controlHigh humidity may cause a decrease in insulation resistance, and moisture-proof measures (such as sealant or desiccant) should be taken.
   • electromagnetic interferenceStay away from strong electromagnetic fields (such as motors and transformers) and use shielded wires or filters to reduce interference.
3. data recording
   • Real time recordingContinuously record strain data using a data acquisition system to avoid manual recording errors.
   • exception handlingWhen abnormal data is detected (such as sudden changes or fluctuations), immediately shut down for inspection.

3、 Maintenance and upkeep

1. routine inspection
   • Visual inspectionRegularly inspect strain gauges, leads, and connectors for damage.
   • insulation testUse a megohmmeter to test the insulation resistance between the strain gauge and the tested structure (should be>100M Ω).
   • Bridge road balanceBefore each test, check the balance status of the bridge to ensure that the output is zero.
2. Long-term storage
   • Clean and storeThe instrument should be stored in a dry and dust-free environment, avoiding moisture or corrosive gases.
   • battery maintenanceIf using battery power, regularly charge or replace the battery to prevent leakage and damage to the instrument.
3. periodic calibration
   • calibration cycleIt is recommended to conduct a comprehensive calibration every 6 months or 1 year to ensure the accuracy of the instrument.
   • calibration institutionChoose a qualified metrology institution or use standard equipment for calibration.

4、 Safety precautions

1. Electrical safety
   • grounding protectionEnsure that the instrument casing is grounded to prevent electric shock.
   • Insulation operationIn high voltage or high current environments, it is necessary to use insulated tools and wear protective equipment.
2. Mechanical safety
   • Load limitAvoid exceeding the load-bearing capacity of the tested structure to prevent breakage or splashing.
   • protective deviceSet up protective barriers or warning signs at the testing site to prevent personnel from approaching hazardous areas.
3. emergency response
   • Power-off operationImmediately cut off the power when an abnormality occurs to avoid equipment damage.
   • data backupRegularly backup test data to prevent loss.

5、 Common Problems and Solutions

1. data drift
   • reasonTemperature changes, strain gauge aging, or bridge imbalance.
   • solveRecalibrate, replace strain gauges, or adjust bridge circuits.
2. noise interference
   • reasonElectromagnetic interference, excessively long leads, or poor grounding.
   • solveUse shielded wires, shorten leads, or improve grounding.
3. Strain gauge failure
   • reasonPoor adhesion, overload, or environmental corrosion.
   • solveRe paste, replace strain gauges or strengthen protection.