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This section provides an overview for strain sensors as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 19 strain sensor manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked strain sensor companies as of March, 2025: 1.Bando USA, 2.HITEC Sensor Developments, 3.ZETLAB Company.
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1987~1991: Engaged in research on wire covering materials at Polymer Materials Laboratory.
1991~1997: Worked as a patent Engineer at Koike International Patent Office.
1997~2005 Worked as an intellectual property member at GE Yokogawa Medical System, currently working as a writer.
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A Strain Sensor is a measuring instrument that detects strain in an object to be measured as a change in electrical signals and measure the amount of strain from this change in electrical signals.
They are capable of extremely accurate and fast-response measurements and can be used for both static and dynamic strain measurement.
Strain Sensors are used to check the strength and safety of automobiles, railroads, aircraft transporters, buildings, and other structures. They are also used in clinical medicine, rehabilitation, ergonomics, and other fields, where they are valuable for measuring physical quantities in a wide range of fields.
In addition, sensors based on Strain Sensors include acceleration sensors, load cells, pressure sensors, displacement sensors, and torque sensors.
The general structure of Strain Sensors is a zigzag wiring consisting of a thin metal film on a thin insulating film. The metal film wiring is formed by a photo-etching process, and the Strain Sensor is attached to the sample using a special adhesive.
The Strain Sensor measures the strain on the surface of the sample by converting it into an electrical signal. The sensor changes the resistance of the entire electrical circuit in response to the strain on the sample, so the strain can be quantified by measuring the resistance. When the Strain Sensor is attached to the sample to be measured and the sample is distorted, the zigzag-shaped wiring of the Strain Sensor expands and contracts in accordance with the strain.
When the wiring is stretched, the cross-sectional area of the wiring becomes smaller and the electrical resistance value increases, and when the wiring is shrunk and the cross-sectional area becomes larger, the electrical resistance value decreases. From this change in electrical resistance, the amount of strain can be measured and quantified. A Hoiston bridge circuit is used to detect this minute change in resistance of Strain Sensors.
In the Hoiston bridge circuit, voltage is applied to the input side of the bridge, and the voltage changed by the strain of the object to be measured is measured at the output side. From this difference, the change in electrical resistance of the wiring of the Strain Sensor is detected, from which the strain of the object to be measured can be quantified. The wiring of Strain Sensors is mostly made of metal foil, but some are made of semiconductors. Strain Sensors utilizing the piezoelectric effect of ceramics are also available.
Strain Sensors are available in both uniaxial types, which have only one element with zigzag-shaped wiring, and multiaxial types, which have more than one element with zigzag-shaped wiring. In the multi-axis type, two elements are arranged in such a way that some of them overlap.
Some are suitable for Poisson's ratio measurement, and some are suitable for stress analysis with three elements overlapping each other. The one with multiple elements arranged in parallel is suitable for strain analysis of stress concentrations, etc.
It is important to select the type of Strain Sensor and the length of the wiring section in the direction of strain (gage length) according to the object to be measured, as well as to match the linear expansion coefficient of the Strain Sensor to the linear expansion coefficient of the object to be measured.
In order to make accurate measurements, it is necessary to remove rust, paint, etc. from the object to be measured. It is also important to prepare the surface of the object to be measured with sandpaper, etc., and to degrease the surface to which the Strain Sensor is to be bonded.
To make accurate measurements using Strain Sensors, first determine and mark the exact position of the object to be measured. Then, apply the specified adhesive to the back side of the Strain Sensor, align the mark on the object to be measured with the center mark on the Strain Sensor, and crimp the adhesive.
Even when instant adhesive is used, it is important to allow sufficient drying time.
Strain Sensors measure the amount of strain using the change in electrical resistance of the zigzag-shaped wiring portion, but measurement errors can occur due to errors in resistance values and errors specific to the wiring of Strain Sensors. In addition, the resistance of the lead wire connecting the Strain Sensor and the power supply, as well as the temperature and humidity of the test environment are also factors in measurement error.
Therefore, some devices automatically correct these errors by using a specific combination of Strain Sensors and data loggers.
*Including some distributors, etc.
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Luna Innovations, founded in 1990, is a manufacturer of fiber optic sensing and non-destructive testing products such as high-definition strain & temperature sensors, interrogators, transmitters & receivers, control units, and accessories. Based in Roanoke, Virginia, the company engages in sensing and non-destructive testing, communications testing, and photonic control. They produce products for photonic control and communication testing, including fiber coils, reflectometers, distributed component analyzers, instruments, and meters.The products are used in the communication, aerospace, automotive, and energy industries.
HITEC Sensor Developments is a manufacturer and supplier of precision measurement and control solutions, established in 1971 and headquartered in Littleton, Massachusetts. The company offers a diverse range of products tailored for precision measurement and control, such as custom load cells designed to measure forces in unique applications, force sensors for accurate force measurement, torque sensors for measuring rotational forces, pressure transducers for monitoring fluid pressures, and specialized instrumentation for data acquisition and analysis. These products find wide application in industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and industrial automation.
Bando USA is a power transmission belts (PTBs) manufacturer headquartered in Itasca, Illinois. Established in 1988, the company produces various conveyance solutions for automotive and industrial applications in corporations like Ford, Caterpillar, BHP Billiton, and Nestle. The company produces a wide range of PTBs from its fabrication facilities, including rib-ace belts, variable speed belts, cogged v-belts, and serpentine belts. Bando USA is a subsidiary of Bando Chemical Industries, which has 18 manufacturing plants in 17 countries across Asia, North America, and Europe.
Phase IV Engineering, established in 1992 and headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, United States, is a manufacturer and supplier of wireless sensor solutions. The company's product range includes a wide range of wireless sensors, such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, flow sensors, and level sensors, catering to diverse industries including manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and medical. Their services encompass custom wireless sensor design services. Tasked with delivering wireless sensor solutions, the company has a track record of technical expertise and awards. With decades of experience, it consistently exceeds expectations in quality and service.
ZETLAB Company, founded in 1992, is a Russian-based manufacturer of control and measuring systems used in metallurgy & mechanical engineering, metrological laboratories, and manufacturing enterprises including aviation, automotive, consumer, and food industries. Its portfolio includes sensors, measuring products, turnkey systems, and digital sensors. The ZETSENSOR line digital devices include digital inclinometers, strain gauges, and seismic, temperature & pressure sensors. The company supplies turnkey data measurement, measurement control, and test control systems for seismic & leak detection, and seismic impact control. The company's ANALIZ, TENZO, SEISMO, VIBRO, and ZETVIEW software enable spectral analysis, electrical parameters measurements, & generation, recording, and representation of signals.
Established in 1954, Tokyo Measuring Instruments Laboratory Co., Ltd. (Tokyo Sokki Kenkyujo Co., Ltd.) is a manufacturer headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in stress measurement equipment. The company has developed a wide range of strain gauge transducers, essential components for stress measurement in general and civil engineering. The company also produces other instruments, such as the portable digital strainmeter for automatic multi-point measurements. With overseas representative offices in China, Germany, and 43 other countries, TML serves global customers, providing solutions for the safety and efficiency of structures.
MinebeaMitsumi Inc. was incorporated in 1951in Japan and manufactures and supplies machined components, and electronic devices and components globally. It operates through four segments: machined components, electronic devices and components, MITSUMI Business, and the U-Shin business segment. MinebeaMitsumi specializes in bearing products including spherical, roller, rod end, and ball bearings for aerospace. MinebeaMitsumi also produces products including precision mechanical assemblies, fasteners, other special components including clutches and brakes, motors, blowers, sensors and lighting devices. Additionally, MinebeaMitsumi offers its products for use in PCs and peripheral equipment, information and telecommunications equipment, household electrical appliances, automobiles, and aerospace.
HBK, formerly named HBM, is a global ISO9001 and ISO14001-certified company founded in 1950. It is known for providing the best technology and expertise in test and measurement. With branches in 30 countries, it provides clients with different solutions ranging from sound and vibration to propulsion efficiency and weighing. Examples of product offerings include transducers, amplifiers, sensors, strain gauges, data acquisition systems, etc. Such products are used in different markets, including aerospace, automobiles, telecom audio, and more. Besides supplying products, they also entertain their customers with after-sales services.
ME systeme was founded in 1995 and is a manufacturer of sensors and measurements electronics based in Hennigsdorf, Brandenburg, Germany. The company manufactures various products such as force sensors, strain gauge, and measuring amplifiers. These products are used in various industries including mechanical engineering, agricultural machinery, and medical technology. Various companies such as Bombardier, Daimler, and Invenio have been part of the company's customer base. The company has obtained certificates of standards such as ISO 9001:2015, CE, and RoHS.
Leine & Linde AB is based in Stockholm, Sweden, and is a manufacturer of industrial encoders and sensors that was originally founded in 1967 before becoming a part of the Heidenhain Group in 1995. The company primarily produces linear, rotary and heavy duty encoders for motion control applications, as well as functional safety assessment and condition monitoring. It also offers inclinometers for measuring slope or tilt angles, along with related accessories including connectors and mounting brackets. Aside from its products, the company provides custom design and engineering, repair or replacement, and express manufacturing and delivery services.
Datum Electronics Ltd., established in 1989 and headquartered in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom, is a designer, manufacturer, and supplier of torque and shaft power measurement solutions. The company's products include bolt-on static and rotary torque sensors, torque transducers, and torque meters. These products are used in various applications, including monitoring ship propeller shafts, fuel flow, and measuring and verifying heavy-duty torque for the insertion of helical screw piles. It also produces custom sensors that provide customized and modular solutions. It serves industries that include maritime, oil and gas, and automotive. Its notable clients include General Electric, Caterpillar, and Rolls Royce.
Founded in Switzerland, Kistler serves both public and private customers in the automotive, aerospace, maritime, transportation, medical, semiconductor, energy and life sciences industries. Products include sensors as well as connectivity, signal, and data acquisition devices as well as software solutions. Applications of these solutions include R&D to safety testing, and condition monitoring. Key technologies include dynamic pressure, force, torque and acceleration measurement technologies.
Baumer Electric AG was founded in 1952 and is headquartered in the city of Frauenfeld, Switzerland. The ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified company provides sensor solutions for digitalization, packaging, railway, food and beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. A sample of the company’s sensor product listings includes object detection, distance measurement, force sensors, accessories, and connectivity devices. The company offers product support for setup and installation, product functionality, and optimized product usage.
Unipulus is a manufacturer of sensors and measuring instruments that was established in 1977 in Tokyo, Japan. The company specializes in precision equipment for measuring a wide range of factors such as durability, tension, and rotational force. Its products include force gauges that test material quality, load cells that measure compression, and torque meters. The company also offers customization, repair, and calibration services for customers needing additional support. Some of its notable clients include Komatsu, Olympus, and Kyoto University.
SCAIME S.A.S., founded in 1983 and headquartered in Juvigny, France, is a manufacturer of process weighing, measurement, and control solutions. The company offers comprehensive weighing components and solutions designed for manufacturing scales and the supervision of production processes. Its product line includes solutions for measuring strain, force, torque, and displacement, meeting the demands within the manufacturing sector. Its fiber-optic measurement systems are specifically engineered for monitoring structural integrity in critical environments. Servicing in more than 70 countries, the company collaborates with specialist partners and distributors, and its quality management system is evidenced by ISO 9001:2015 certification.
KYOWA ELECTRONIC INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD., founded in 1949 as Kyowa Radio Laboratory Co., Ltd., is a Japanese manufacturer and distributor based in Chofu, Tokyo, specializing in stress measuring equipment with strain gages. Their product offerings include strain gages, bridge boxes or input adapters, transducers, and related accessories. Additionally, KYOWA operates TAMAYA TECHNICS INC., a subsidiary that manufactures navigation, surveying, and meteorological instruments. KYOWA's stress measuring products find applications in various industries. For example, their measurement instruments are used in riding quality evaluation and safety tests of automobiles and railway roads. These devices are also utilized in construction, civil engineering, and healthcare sectors.
Smartec Inc., established in 1996 and headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, is a manufacturer and supplier of fiber optic sensors and monitoring systems. The company's product portfolio includes an array of fiber optic sensors and monitoring systems utilized for measuring parameters such as deformation, strain, displacement, temperature, and vibration. These sensors find applications across diverse sectors, including structural health monitoring, geotechnical monitoring, pipeline monitoring, oil & gas well monitoring, and civil engineering. Its products are esteemed for quality precision, dependability, and robustness. Besides, the company's sensors are designed with ease of installation and maintenance in mind.
Althen Sensors & Controls, established in 1978 and headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, is a manufacturer and supplier of sensor solutions. The company's product range includes sensors, measurement systems, and instrumentation, catering to diverse industries such as test and measurement, OEM, and IIoT. Its services include customization, turnkey solutions, engineering support, maintenance, and repair. Devoted to delivering precision measurement systems and sensor solutions, the company holds ISO 9001:2015 accreditation. With decades of experience, it consistently exceeds expectations in quality and service.
Ranking as of March 2025
Derivation Method| Rank | Company | Click Share |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bando USA |
14.3%
|
| 2 | ZETLAB Company |
9.2%
|
| 3 | HITEC Sensor Developments |
8.2%
|
| 4 | Phase IV Engineering |
7.1%
|
| 5 | Luna Innovations |
7.1%
|
| 6 | Kistler Instrument Corp. |
7.1%
|
| 7 | Smartec Inc |
5.1%
|
| 8 | Hottinger Brüel & Kjær |
5.1%
|
| 9 | MinebeaMitsumi Inc. |
5.1%
|
| 10 | ME systeme |
4.1%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the strain sensor page as of March 2025. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
*Including some distributors, etc.
| Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
|
United States of America
|
4 | 36.4% |
|
Japan
|
4 | 36.4% |
|
Russia
|
1 | 9.1% |
|
France
|
1 | 9.1% |
|
Switzerland
|
1 | 9.1% |
