Measurement using strain gauges is the most important method of measuring mechanical strain. In this measuring method mechanical quantities are measured electrically.

Strain gauge measurement is a relatively simple technique in practice, as it offers a high resolution and can be employed directly at the point of interest. A strain gauge is not a complete measuring instrument however. It is only rendered usable by the user, after being installed. The quality of measurement depends not only on the strain gauge itself, but also essentially on the application method and how it is executed. Strain gauges are highly reliable provided users have the skills and theoretical knowledge enabling them to use such highly sensitive sensor elements correctly.

The application set FL 101 provides all the necessary tools and aids to learn the fundamentals of strain gauges installation.

For the measurements to work without error, components are first subjected to thorough preparation before the strain gauges are attached. Special adhesives ensure total transfer of component deformations to the strain gauge. The strain gauge is also protected by suitable coverings against external influences, such as damp and mechanical damage, by suitable coverings.
The supplied package includes wiring to connect the strain gauges in bridge configurations. The wires are attached to the strain gauges using a supplied soldering bit and soldering terminals.

The instructional material (text book, exercise script and video) provides a multimedia introduction to the installation and configuration of strain gauges and on interpretation of measured values.