The pin is internally strain-gauged to measure shear strain at the maximuim shear plains.
Because it is measuring the shear stress, it is less affected by bending and torque, thus making it very resilient to other external effects. This approach makes the shackle more robust than using load measuring links that are susceptible to bending and torsion.
Because strain gauges are fitted along the centre line of the pin, a good level of protection is achieved and are on the nutreal axis to nulify other effects.
By using finite element analysis, pins can be designed for optium performance and will highlight problem areas. Element analysis also shows how strain pattern changes as different features are modified or removed.
The only areas reqiring sealing when internal gauging is implemented are the ends. These ends need to multipool barriers to prevent ingress of moisture. We have found that occasionaly, if the pin is welded, it is a hindrence if issues occur and is therefore not welded when internal amplifers are fitted.
These pins can be fitted with internal amplfiers and also have telemetry signal transmission in addition to cable transfer with or without marine connectors.
As strain gauge transducers are classified as simple apparatus, they can be deployed in hazardous areas with suitable barriers.
For more information, please contact Active Load.