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In a recent blog post, StrainBlogTM explains that plastics can be tested using the Micro-Measurements® EA series strain gages with an option L or LE and 350-ohm resistance. The EA series gages are designed to be flexible offering a variety of sizes. The L or LE option adds small ribbon lead-wires so that no soldering is required at the gage sites reducing damage to the gage itself or the adhesive or the plastic.
StrainBlogTM recommends the following EA series strain gages as an example:
For poplypropylene (PP) surfaces as with other plastics, StrainBlogTM outlines a procedure to prepare surfaces prior to bonding the gage to the poplypropylene surface:
Step 1: Degrease the plastic with GC-6 Isopropyl Alcohol
Step 2: Abrade the surface with 400-grit SCP-3 Silicon-carbide paper
Step 3: Locate the gage location lines
Step 4: Scrub the surface with M-Prep Conditioner A
Step 5: Scrub the surface with M-Prep Neutralizer 5A
Alternate to Step 2: Scour the surface with a household cleanser and rinse with water
Additionally, StrainBlogTM recommends the M-Bond AE-10 adhesive to bond the strain gage to the poplypropylene. This adhesive is 100% solids such that it doesn’t react with plastics.
StrainBlogTM goes on further to recommend the 3140-RTV as a protective coating or to water proof the strain gages in 75 °C water.
Finally, StrainBlogTM explains that Micro-Measurements® offers a variety of Self Temperature (STC) values such as 30, 40 and 50. However, StrainBlogTM explains that if the temperature is constant for example at 75 °C, there is no need for the STC – simply zeroing the temperature is enough.
To continue reading follow the link to the StrainBlogTM
To view the Micro-Measurements® products, follow the link
For a further discussion contact our Melbourne office by email or phone: +61 3 9874 5777
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