TML strain gauges are used not only for strain measurement but also as sensors for strain gauge-type transducers. Strain gauge-type transducers converts various physical quantities into mechanical strains of spring element (elastic element), and the mechanical strains are electrically outputted using strain gauges. Strain gauge-type transducers include:

By selecting an appropriate structure for the spring element (elastic element) and maximizing the features of TML strain gauges, various types of superb strain gauge-type transducers can be designed and manufactured for use in a wide range of measurement and control applications. Designing a spring element (elastic element) is the first step in the production of a transducer, followed by the selection of the strain gauge, adhesive and coating material based on the operational environment (temperature and other environmental conditions) and required accuracy, which are also important factors to be considered in ordinary stress measurement. Strain gauge-type transducers generally have the full bridge configuration.

 Features of TML transducer-specific strain gauges

Grid pattern

Various patterns are available to meet the shape of spring element and bridge configuration.

• Single element:	Tension/compression, Bending, Shearing
• 2-element:	90° cross, Torque
• Full bridge:	Bending, Shearing, Diaphragm

Resistance

Resistance values of 120Ω, 175Ω, 350Ω and 1000Ω are available. The 350Ω resistance is the most commonly used in general purpose transducers.

Sensing element material

Similarly as that of stress measurement gauges, Cu-Ni alloy is generally used for the sensing element of transducer-specific strain gauges. In the meanwhile, gauges made of Ni-Cr alloy is suited for the transducers used in high temperature.

Gauge backing material

Unlike stress measurement gauges, the backing material of transducer-specific gauge cannot be determined solely by the operational temperature and bonding method. To ensure maximum transducer performance, select the optimum backing material through the combination test of spring element and backing material. Following materials are available as backing of TML transducer-specific strain gauge.

As the operating temperature and the heat resistive temperature are different, F series gauges(epoxy resin backing) also can be bonded with heat curing adhesive as TML type C-1.

Creep compensation

The creep characteristics are very important for strain gauge-type transducers. In general, the creep is compensated by the combination of material creep and gauge creep, which cancels with each other. Strain gauges having the different creep characteristics are prepared for respective TML transducer-specific strain gauge.