Aircraft Foil Strain Sensors: Model DTD2684 Series

Columbia’s Foil Strain Sensors are more accurate than previous, less accurate counting accelerometer systems when measuring the fatigue stress encountered by aircraft under varied circumstances of speed, weightand mission configuration.

These sensors provide more precise monitoring of important undercarriage components and surfaces for possible fatigue damage caused by high-stress maneuvers, thousands of flying hoursand landings. These sensors are also appropriate for normal laboratory applications due to their simplicity and dependability.

These sensors come with a variety of sensitive axis orientations to choose from.

The DTD2684 -1, -2, -3, -4, -5 sensors are flight-qualified and have been the industry standard since their introduction in the early 1980s.Models DTD2684-11, -12, -13, -14 have the same precision, robustnessand convenience of installation but with a different sensitive axis direction.

Models for compensating materials typically utilized in aircraft structural production are available. The Columbia Model 5802 Strain Gage Amplifier is used to boost sensor readings and provide strain and temperature outputs.

Note: Exports from the United States are subjected to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and/or the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) authorization procedures.

Flight Qualified

High Output — Two Active Arms

Ease of Installation

Choice of Sensitive Axis Orientation

Specifications

Operational

Table 1. Source: Columbia Research Laboratories, Inc.

Environmental

Table 2. Source: Columbia Research Laboratories, Inc.

Physical

Table 3. Source: Columbia Research Laboratories, Inc.

¹ @25 °C. ² Installed Gage

Schematic Diagram

Image Credit: Columbia Research Laboratories, Inc.

Typical Installation of Old Style Strain Gages. 1. Bolt or rivet removed from assembly; 2. Dummy gage(s) bonded to “Z Tab” of same material as structure; 3. Active gage bonded to structure under test; 4. “Z Tab” mounted to structure with bond or rivet; 5. Strain gage leads interwired and soldered to junction block; and 6. Entire unit covered with protective material. Image Credit: Columbia Research Laboratories, Inc.

Installation of Columbia Strain Sensor. 1. Strain Sensor bonded to surface under test; 2. Leads connected to wire harness; and 3. Coat sensor and wires with waterproofing material. Image Credit: Columbia Research Laboratories, Inc.

Ordering Information (Note Sensitive Axis)

Table 4. Source: Columbia Research Laboratories, Inc.

Advantages

Twice as much output

A higher level of precision

No compromise on structural integrity

Installation time is reduced

Optimal temperature compensation