Strain gauge is an indispensable tool in engineering and material science, used to measure the deformation of materials under stress. Whether you’re monitoring the structural integrity of a bridge or testing the performance of a new aircraft component, strain gauges provide critical data that helps ensure safety, reliability, and efficiency. With various types available, each suited to specific applications and environments, understanding their differences is key to selecting the right one.
- Wire Strain Gauges
Wire strain gauges are among the earliest forms of strain measurement technology. They consist of a fine wire arranged in a grid pattern and bonded to a backing material. As the material deforms, the wire stretches or compresses, causing a change in its electrical resistance. Though largely replaced by more advanced designs, wire strain gauges are still used in basic applications and educational settings due to their simplicity.
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- Foil Strain Gauges
Foil strain gauges are the most widely used type today. They feature a thin metal foil etched into a precise pattern and mounted on a flexible backing. When bonded to a surface, the foil deforms with the material, allowing for accurate strain measurement. Their versatility and reliability make them suitable for physical strain, stress, torque and force measurement in marine, aircraft, civil and mechanical applications as well as in architecture, automotive testing and medical science.
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- Semiconductor Strain Gauges
Semiconductor strain gauges use silicon or other semiconductor materials, which exhibit a much greater change in resistance under strain than metallic gauges. This makes them highly sensitive and ideal for detecting minute deformations. However, their non-linear response and sensitivity to temperature changes mean they require more careful handling and calibration.
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- Photoelectric Strain Gauges
Photoelectric strain gauges operate using light rather than electrical resistance. They detect strain by measuring changes in the path or intensity of a light beam. These gauges are non-contact and immune to electromagnetic interference, making them ideal for environments where traditional gauges may not function effectively.
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- Capacitive Strain Gauges
Capacitive strain gauges measure strain by detecting changes in capacitance between two plates as the material deforms. They are particularly useful in dynamic applications where rapid changes in strain occur. While they offer excellent sensitivity, they can be affected by environmental conditions and require precise calibration.
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- Fibre Optic Strain Gauges
Fibre optic strain gauges are one of the most advanced technologies in strain measurement. They use changes in light transmission through optical fibres to detect strain. These gauges are highly accurate, immune to electromagnetic interference, and capable of transmitting data over long distances, making them ideal for large-scale structural monitoring.
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Choosing the Right Strain Gauge
Strain gauges play a vital role in modern engineering, enabling accurate measurement of stress and deformation across a wide range of materials and structures. From simple wire designs to sophisticated fibre optic systems, each type offers unique advantages tailored to specific needs.
Selecting the appropriate strain gauge depends on several factors, including the expected strain range, environmental conditions, required sensitivity, and budget. For general-purpose applications, foil strain gauges offer a reliable and cost-effective solution. For high-precision or harsh environments, fibre optic or semiconductor gauges may be more suitable. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each type is essential for making an informed decision.
At Bestech, we supply a wide range of strain gauges such as foil strain gauges, waterproof strain gauges, weldable strain transducers, mold strain gauges, magnetic strain gauges, bolt strain gauges and crack detection gauges for industrial test and measurement as well as research applications. Our strain gauges are suitable for wide range of applications including measurement in extreme temperature conditions such as cryogenic or high temperature, measurement on special surfaces such as concrete, mortar, composite and asphalt, crack propagation measurement and general strain measurement in research and industry.
Need help on choosing the right strain gauges?
Contact Bestech Australia to speak with one of our specialists, and we’ll help you to choose the right one for your application or join our one-day intensive strain gauge workshop to learn the fundamentals of strain gauges, including wiring and measurement techniques for precise data collection.
Join Our Strain Gauging Workshop
To help engineers, researchers, and technicians master the art of strain gauge installation, Bestech Australia is running an intensive full-day, hands-on Strain Gauging Workshop on Tuesday, 16th September 2025. Led by industry experts with years of practical experience in both industrial and academic applications, this training covers everything from surface preparation to advanced troubleshooting.
Whether you’re new to strain gauging or looking to sharpen your technique, this course offers real-world skills and knowledge that you can immediately apply in the field or lab.
Register now to secure your place and take the first step towards more accurate and reliable strain measurements.
For enquiries or to reserve your spot, contact us at straingaugetraining@bestech.com.au or visit Strain Gauge Training Course for more information.
