Is a 0.040V Reading on a Strain Gauge Before Force Applied Acceptable?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the acceptable voltage reading of 0.040V on a strain gauge connected to a cantilever beam before any force is applied. Participants explore the implications of this reading in relation to the expected balance of the bridge circuit and the accuracy of the measurements.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether a reading of 0.040V is acceptable to continue work or if adjustments are needed to achieve a balanced state.
  • Another participant suggests that the system is likely functioning correctly, noting that zero readings may fluctuate and referencing a 1% balance error in accuracy, implying that a 0.040V reading corresponds to a 4V drive.
  • A participant observes that removing the strain gauge and connecting all resistors in the bridge still results in a 0.040V reading, indicating that the issue may not be with the strain gauge itself.
  • Further inquiries are made about the output voltage change when the beam and strain gauge are loaded, as well as requests for circuit details and measurement methods, suggesting that the offset voltage of the amplifier or meter could be a factor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether the 0.040V reading is acceptable or what steps should be taken next. Multiple viewpoints regarding the functioning of the strain gauge and the implications of the voltage reading remain present.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the source of the 0.040V reading, potential fluctuations in zero readings, and the specific setup of the strain gauge circuit, which may affect the interpretation of the measurements.

Micheal_Leo
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i connect strain gauge on cantiliver beam and getting reading 0.040v before force applied , the theory said that bridhe should be balance mean=0

1) does 0.040 acceptable to carry on work

or

2) how can i make it to 0so that it balanced
 
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It is probably working. Zero may wander a bit.
If accuracy is quoted as 1% balance error, then 0.04 V = 4 volt drive.
Load the beam and bridge normally, test it.
 
Baluncore said:
It is probably working. Zero may wander a bit.
If accuracy is quoted as 1% balance error, then 0.04 V = 4 volt drive.
Load the beam and bridge normally, test it.
i just observe that i remove strain gauge from circuit and connect all 4 resistors in bridge , same value i am getting 0.040 , all 4 resistors and strain gauge has 120 ohm value
 
Micheal_Leo said:
, same value i am getting 0.040 ,
Does the beam and strain gauge provide a change of output voltage when loaded?

Please provide the circuit for your strain gauge system.
Maybe 40 mV is the offset voltage of the amplifier, or meter.
How do you measure voltage?
Do you have an amplifier?
 

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