Strain gauge sensors are well known and widely used in the market, but BoltSafe sensors use a different technology. They use magnetoelastic technology and therefore measure change in the magnetic field. This makes the BoltSafe sensors more compact (low clearance) and less expensive than strain gauge sensors. Our load sensors are designed to measure and monitor the bolt load in various bolted joints. Knowing the bolt load enhances safety, makes the joints more dependable and gives better control over the bolted construction.
Our sensors are used as washers, so they are placed on the non-driven side of a bolted connection, preferably under a nut. While tightening the bolt, the BoltSafe washer deforms minorly because of the applied force. The sensor measures the changes in the electrical resistance caused by these deformations, which is the main difference with strain gauge sensors. This is the data we use to determine the bolt load at any given moment.