Strain memory devices

Citation

(1998), "Strain memory devices", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 70 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.1998.12770aad.005

Strain memory devices

Strain memory devices

Graham & White Instruments have been appointed the exclusive distributor within the UK of the patented new IntelliSense™ peak strain memory devices from SMS Inc. based in San Diego.

IntelliSense™ technology is based on a family of peak strain indicating metal alloys. If these alloys are strained (stretched) even slightly, they transform irreversibly from non-magnetic to ferro-magnetic alloys. The amount of metal that transforms is proportional to how much they are stretched. It is very simple to measure the large magnetic signal that results from this transformation and thereby detect the peak strain to which the sensor has been exposed.

Since the transformation is irreversible, the sensing element has an intrinsic memory capability that eliminates the need to continuously monitor the sensor or supply power to it. The user can go back to the sensor at anytime in the fixture and determine the peak strain to which it has been exposed.

The IntelliSense™ alloys are used in basic configurations that satisfy the needs of a number of applications and markets. For most civil, aircraft and engineering applications such as bridge and building monitoring, or engine mountings, the sensing element is mounted inside a low cost, self-contained strain sensing housing. It can also be supplied in traditional bolt form.

A simple hand held device can be scanned over the surface of the sensor at any time to measure the magnetic signature, and thereby determine the maximum stress to which the part has been exposed.

Details from Graham and White Instruments Ltd, 135 Hatfield Road, St. Albans, Herts, AL1 4LZ. Tel: 01727 861110; Fax: 01727 844272.