SmartTape

SmartTape is a lightweight and highly flexible FBG strain and temperature sensor, constructed by integrating the sensing fibre within an unimpregnated glass fibre mat (veil cloth). The sensor is embedded or attached by simply brushing on with a suitable resin. The result is a sensor that is convenient for composite manufacturers to handle and embed, or suitable for surface mount attachment to irregular shaped structures, or in installations where a very low sensor profile is desired.

Installations to date include wind turbine, yacht masts, civil structures and riser pipes.

Features:

FBG strain and/or temperature sensor
Flexible, unobtrusive veil cloth construction
Zero power, electrically immune
Intrinsically safe
Developed by Smart Fibres for composite embedment
Available singly or in multiple arrays
Highly stable
Multiple km signal integrity
Suitable for long-term SHM

Downloads:

Datasheet (272.89K)

FAQ. What is the warranty period for Smart Fibres' interrogators?

All of our fibre optic interrogators come with a standard one year warranty. This warranty can be increased on a year by year basis. Extended warranty is available at the time of initial purchase on request.

FAQ. How do I compensate for the thermal effect on the strain measuring FBG?

We recommend that a second FBG, which is completely isolated from strain, is fitted close to the strain measuring FBG. Temperature compensation can be achieved in 2 methods, loose FBG or a strain isolated coupon with a known CTE. Our SmartSoft software includes a utility to automate this temperature compensation process.

FAQ. How do I calculate which wavelength to use for my FBGs to maximise the number of sensors on a particular channel?

Smart Fibres has created a wavelength budget calculation tool for FBG wavelength selection.

Please Email Us or call +44 1344 484111 with details of your application and we can help you create a wavelength budget.

FAQ. What fibre type is used in your systems?

Single mode fibre with a 9 µm core, 125 µm cladding, and a 155 µm Polyimide or 245 µm Acrylate coating. Optical Fibers with pure silica core, bend tolerant and small core e.g. 6/125 or 4/125, can also be used but with some optical power losses. Multi mode fibre cannot be used.

FAQ. Can we put different sensor types on the same fibre?

Yes, Smart Fibres’ WDM products allow the user to combine different sensors types, e.g. temperature, strain and vibration all on a single fibre.

FAQ. Do you have a procedure for mounting FBG sensors onto a substrate?

Yes, please send your request to [email protected].