Temperature-Compensation Method for High-Temperature Strain Gauges

A relatively simple and inexpensive method of fabricating a temperature-compensation element for high- temperature strain gauges has been devised. This element, connected in the adjacent arm of a Wheatstone bridge, provides temperature compensation for an active strain gauge attached to the substrate. A method for accurately measuring structural static strains in harsh environments is an important requirement for future flight research of hypersonic vehicles and ground test articles. Sturdy, flight-worthy strain sensors must be developed for attachment to super-alloys, new composite materials, and thermal-protection systems. With little deviation from standard Rokide flame-spray installation procedures, preliminary tests indicate viable data can be produced to operating temperatures of at least 1,700 °F (927 °C).