Multi-channel measuring amplifier

Multi-channel measuring amplifier

Multi-channel measuring amplifiers for strain gauge full/half/quarter bridges (force, torque, strain) are used when multiple measuring points need to be acquired simultaneously.

The individual channels of some measuring amplifier models can be configured for various measured variables and sensors, such as temperature, voltage, current, and IEPE accelerometers (GSV-8, GSV-6T3).

The SubD15 and SubD15HD connectors and the 5-pin M12 circular connectors are optimized for connecting single (1D) sensors, while the SubD44HD connectors are designed for connecting 3D or 6D sensors. The pinout of the SubD44HD connectors in the 3-channel devices (GSV-6T3) differs from that of the 6-channel measuring amplifiers (GSV-61T6): The 3-channel measuring amplifiers have additional inputs for voltage or temperature sensors (PT1000).

Applications

• Test benches & quality control
• Multi-channel force measurement in presses/assembly stations: Distribution of the joining force across multiple punches/segments, detection of misalignment, tilting, and "soft/hard" defect patterns.
• Multi-spindle screw systems: Simultaneous acquisition of torque (and, if applicable, angle/strain on the tool holder) for process windows and traceability.
• End-of-line (EOL) test benches: Multiple force/torque transducers in parallel (e.g., steering gears, actuators, seat mechanisms) → reduced cycle time, increased comparability.
• Calibration benches: Parallel reading of many bridges (e.g., serial calibration of force sensors), including adjustment/linearization/temperature compensation.

Mechanical engineering & plant monitoring (condition monitoring)

• Load distribution on machine frames/bearing blocks: Multi-point strain → uneven loads, settlements, foundation problems.
• Overload protection/process control: Multi-channel force in, for example, B. Rolling mills, conveyor technology, winding machines (rail trains), extruders (tensile/compressive forces).
• Tool and clamping systems: Strain gauges on clamping jaws/frames → uniform clamping, automatic readjustment.

Vehicle technology (automotive, rail, off-highway)

• Axle load and wheel force measurement (test bench or field): multiple strain gauge channels for forces/moments in different directions; left/right comparison.
• Chassis/body structure tests: Strain gauge rosettes at critical points → stress analysis under load cases (curb, braking, crash-like load paths).
• Powertrain: Multi-channel torque (shaft) + strain on bearing/gearbox supports → efficiency, resonances, overload situations.
• Rail: Forces in couplings, bogies, brake components; strain on car body for structural monitoring.

Civil Engineering & Structural Health Monitoring (SHM)

• Bridges, Halls, Masts: Strain gauges on girders/gusset plates → stress distribution, fatigue monitoring, load collectives.
• Prestressing / Tensioning Technology: Multi-channel force measurement on multiple strands/anchors (load uniformity, relaxation, retensioning).
• Pile & Anchorage Tests: Parallel measurement of multiple load cells + strain gauge measuring points for interpreting load transfer.

Aerospace / Wind Tunnel / Lightweight Construction

• Structural tests on wings/fuselages: multiple strain gauge channels, often synchronized with hydraulic actuators; detection of local hotspots.
• Wind Tunnel Models: Multi-component force/moment (6-axis) plus strain on model images for corrections.
• Fiber Composites: Strain gauge meshes for validating FEM models, delamination/damage detection via strain changes.

Energy & Process Industry

• Wind Power: Strain at the tower/blade root/bearings; load collectives and pitch/yaw effects.
• Crane/Lifting Technology: Multi-point strain on booms, cables, winches → load moment, skew, safety monitoring.
• Piping/Pressure Vessels: Strain gauges for stress analysis under temperature/pressure changes, vibrations, support design.

Research & Development (FEM validation, material testing)

• Multi-channel material testing: Strain gauge rosettes and multi-point strain for determining local stress components.
• Modal Analysis & Fatigue Strength: Strains at multiple points synchronized with acceleration/load → fatigue strength verification.
• Prototype Instrumentation: Strain gauge mapping on a component to understand load paths and optimize design.

Robotics & Automation

• Gripper/End Effector Forces: Multi-channel strain gauges on grippers (e.g., 3-finger grippers) → force distribution, slip detection.
• Collision/Contact Force Measurement: Strain on robot components → indirect force estimation, safety functions.