Rugged Vibrating Wire Strain Gauges for Long-Term Structural Monitoring
Overview
Vibrating wire strain gauges are trusted sensing tools designed for long-term strain monitoring in geotechnical, structural, and civil engineering projects. These sensors operate on the principle of frequency shift in a tensioned wire, providing highly stable and accurate readings over time—even in extreme environmental conditions. This webpage presents a detailed overview of the working principles, core features, and practical applications of vibrating wire strain gauges across infrastructure, tunnelling, mining, and dam monitoring projects. Strain and Stress Measurement Devices supports B2B customers across North America by offering reliable vibrating wire technology backed by years of industry expertise, rigorous product testing, and unmatched support. Based in Tulsa, OK, we help businesses improve asset longevity, safety, and performance through field-proven sensor solutions.
Advanced Technologies from Trusted Partners
In addition to offering products and systems developed by our team and trusted partners for Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) Strain Sensors, we are proud to carry top-tier technologies from Global Advanced Operations Tek Inc. (GAO Tek Inc.) and Global Advanced Operations RFID Inc. (GAO RFID Inc.). These reliable, high-quality products and systems enhance our ability to deliver comprehensive technologies, integrations, and services you can trust. Where relevant, we have provided direct links to select products and systems from GAO Tek Inc. and GAO RFID Inc.
Core Components
Hardware Products
(from GAO Tek & GAO RFID)
Vibrating Wire Embedment Strain Gauge – GAO Tek
Designed for embedding in concrete and other structural materials for long-term internal strain monitoring.
Surface-Mounted Vibrating Wire Strain Gauge – GAO Tek
Ideal for installation on steel or concrete surfaces where retrofitting is required.
Vibrating Wire Sister Bar Strain Gauge – GAO Tek
Commonly used in reinforced concrete applications for precise rebar strain measurement.
Thermally Compensated VW Strain Gauge – GAO Tek
Integrates temperature correction to ensure accurate readings in fluctuating climates.
Wireless VW Data Logger Node – GAO RFID
Supports remote monitoring and data transmission via IoT for difficult-to-access sites.
Software and Systems
GAO Tek VW Data Acquisition Software
Collects, visualizes, and manages data from multiple vibrating wire gauges.
GAO RFID Wireless Gateway & Analytics Platform
Integrates field data with centralized cloud systems for real-time reporting and alerts.
Key Features and Functionalities
- High stability and long-term measurement accuracy
- Immune to signal degradation over long cable runs
- Resistant to water, dust, temperature extremes, and corrosive environments
- Thermally compensated models available for precise performance in variable climates
- Suitable for both embedment and surface-mount configurations
System
Compatibility
- Compatible with industry-standard VW readout units and dataloggers
- Interfaces with wireless telemetry systems and SCADA platforms
- Integrates easily with long-term geotechnical and structural monitoring networks
- Works with USB, RS-232, and wireless output modules
- Durable design supports rugged field installations and long cable extensions
Applications
- Monitoring internal strain in concrete dams, tunnels, and retaining walls
- Structural health tracking in bridges, high-rises, and historical buildings
- Mining shaft and slope stability monitoring
- Geotechnical monitoring in embankments and foundations
- Long-term research in environmental and material behavior studies
Industries We Serve
Civil & Structural Engineering
Mining & Geotechnical Engineering
Transportation Infrastructure
Dams & Hydroelectric Power
Environmental Monitoring
Research and Academia
Relevant U.S. & Canadian Industry Standards
- ASTM D7200
- AASHTO T277
- CSA A23.3
- MIL-STD-810G
- IEEE 1451
Case Studies
Bridge Abutment Monitoring – Illinois, USA
Strain and Stress Measurement Devices provided vibrating wire strain gauges for installation in concrete abutments during bridge expansion. The gauges delivered long-term, stable data that informed structural safety assessments over multiple seasons.
Tunnel Construction Strain Analysis – Ontario, Canada
A tunneling contractor deployed our surface-mounted VW strain gauges on shotcrete linings to monitor early-age strain development. Data helped optimize reinforcement strategies during excavation.
Dam Structural Assessment – Montana, USA
During a retrofit of a large concrete dam, embedded VW strain gauges from our inventory were installed to track stress redistribution. Integration with wireless dataloggers allowed remote monitoring and improved safety oversight.
Interested in dependable vibrating wire strain gauges for your next geotechnical or structural monitoring project?
Contact Us today to request a quote, schedule a consultation, or speak with an expert about your sensing requirements. We’re ready to deliver trusted technologies for your toughest challenges.