Vibrating Wire Load Cell
The VH vibrating wire load cell is a rugged, compact sensor that measures tensile or compressive loads on rock or soil anchors using one to six vibrating wire strain gauges around a heat-treated steel load-sensing cylinder.
- Range
- 500, 1000, 1500, 1800, 2500, 5000, 10 000 kN (nominal; can be modified to suit project)
- Accuracy
- ±0.5% F.S.
- Resolution
- 0.025% F.S. (min.)

Overview
In detail
How it works
The load-sensing element is a cylinder of high-strength, heat-treated steel. Local compressive strains induced by tension in the anchor are measured by one to six vibrating wire sensors; averaging their readings minimizes the effect of eccentric loading. A thermistor built into the gauge provides temperature data to correct for material effects.
Deployment
A steel housing with O-ring seals protects the strain gauges from mechanical damage and water infiltration; the load cell and connector are water-resistant. The cable exit runs parallel to the housing surface for better clearance, and centralizer bushings and load distribution plates are available as accessories. A plain jacketed cable links the cell to a readout or data acquisition system.
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Specifications
Technical specifications
- Range
- 500, 1000, 1500, 1800, 2500, 5000, 10 000 kN (nominal; can be modified to suit project)
- Accuracy
- ±0.5% F.S.
- Resolution
- 0.025% F.S. (min.)
- Overload
- 1.5 × F.S.
- Operating temperature
- −20 to +80°C
- Sensors
- 3 or 6 vibrating wire strain gauges
- Cable
- IRC-82A, IRC-121
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