Vibrating Wire Stress Meters for Internal Force Monitoring
Precision-embedded stress meters designed for long-term measurement of tensile and compressive stress in structural systems
Overview
Vibrating Wire Stress Meters are embedded sensing instruments engineered to provide real-time insights into internal stress conditions within concrete, rock, or other structural materials. These devices detect changes in stress by measuring frequency variations in a tensioned wire, offering unmatched long-term stability and high data accuracy in even the harshest environments. Used in geotechnical, civil, and infrastructure projects, they are ideal for monitoring stress concentrations, validating structural designs, and ensuring safety over the lifecycle of a project. Pressure Stress Measure, a Vancouver-based company with a strong B2B presence across North America, provides complete support for implementing vibrating wire technologies. With a focus on innovation, quality assurance, and expert support, we empower engineers and project teams to deploy scalable, dependable monitoring systems. Through collaborations with global technology leaders and ongoing product development, we deliver integrated solutions that meet evolving industry demands.
Instruments and Technologies We Provide
In addition to offering products and systems developed by our team and trusted partners for Vibrating Wire Stress Meters, we are proud to carry top-tier technologies from Global Advanced Operations Tek Inc. (GAO Tek Inc.) and Global Advanced Operations RFID Inc. (GAO RFID Inc.). These reliable, high-quality products and systems enhance our ability to deliver comprehensive technologies, integrations, and services you can trust. Where relevant, we have provided direct links to select products and systems from GAO Tek Inc. and GAO RFID Inc.
Core Components
Hardware
- Embedded Sensor Units – Industrial & Asset Monitoring Sensors capture structural integrity data in high-risk insured assets like tunnels, dams, or bank vault foundations.
- Protective Cables & Connectors – Wi-Fi HaLow Accessories maintain stable signal connectivity in remote monitoring of buried infrastructure insured by finance institutions.
- Multiplexers & Data Loggers – Device Edge aggregate high-frequency stress data from embedded sensors for localized analysis in finance-backed infrastructure.
- Mounting and Grouting Accessories – Zigbee Accessories enable secure sensor installation and integrity checks in insured underground or structural sites.
Software
- Real-Time Stress Analysis Tools – Desktop and cloud-based platforms for visualization and interpretation of frequency data.
- Alert & Reporting Systems – Automated alerts for stress threshold breaches, historical comparisons, and compliance reporting.
- Sensor Calibration Utilities – Built-in tools to convert frequency data into engineering stress values.
Cloud Services
- Remote Monitoring Dashboards – Access stress data 24/7 from any connected device.
- Data Backup & Analytics – Secure cloud storage and long-term trend analysis to support asset lifecycle management.
- Integration APIs – Seamless interfacing with SCADA, BIM, or facility monitoring platforms.
Key Features & Functionalities
- Long-term accuracy and stability for continuous stress monitoring
- Resistant to electromagnetic interference, temperature variations, and moisture
- Suitable for high-load and dynamic environments
- High-resolution frequency-to-stress data conversion
- Real-time data capture with programmable logging intervals
- Modular deployment in single or multi-point stress arrays
Integrations & Compatibility
SCADA & infrastructure control systems
Multi-sensor networks (strain, displacement, and pore pressure sensors)
Our vibrating wire systems can be integrated with:
Wireless telemetry modules and gateways
GIS or digital twin infrastructure platforms
Geotechnical monitoring platforms
Benefits
Precision Engineering
Reliable results for design validation, safety checks, and forensic analysis
Scalability
Suitable for localized or large-scale sensor networks
Non-Destructive
Embedded during construction or retrofit phases without altering structure integrity
Long-Term Monitoring
Ideal for projects requiring years of data without recalibration
Data-Driven Decisions
Supports predictive maintenance, regulatory compliance, and structural optimization
Applications
- Monitoring tunnels, dams, bridges, and underground structures
- Stress mapping in retaining walls, shafts, and diaphragm walls
- Verifying stress redistribution during excavation and load transfer
- Structural health monitoring of critical infrastructure
- Safety verification during seismic retrofitting or slope stabilization
Industries We Serve
- Civil & Structural Engineering
- Geotechnical & Mining
- Transportation Infrastructure
- Dams & Hydropower Projects
- Oil & Gas
- Environmental Monitoring
- Urban Development & Smart Infrastructure
Relevant U.S. & Canadian Standards
- ASTM D6026
- AASHTO R18
- FHWA Geotechnical Instrumentation Standards
- CSA S6-19 (Canada)
- CAN/CSA-S413 (Canada)
Case Studies
Case Study 1 – U.S. | Hoover Dam Auxiliary Spillway Monitoring
Vibrating wire stress meters were installed within the auxiliary spillway structure to monitor internal concrete stress under fluctuating water loads. Pressure Stress Measure provided custom calibration, installation guidance, and cloud-based monitoring tools. The system enabled real-time alerts during high-flow events, improving safety oversight and extending infrastructure life.
Case Study 2 – U.S. | San Francisco Bay Area BART Tunnel Retrofits
To assess long-term tunnel lining stability during seismic retrofitting, embedded stress meters were deployed across multiple tunnel segments. The solution enabled continuous monitoring without disrupting operations. The client praised our responsive technical support and seamless integration with their geotechnical systems.
Case Study 3 – Canada | Rocky Mountain Dam Stabilization Project
In Alberta, vibrating wire meters were embedded in dam cores and abutments to monitor stress behavior through seasonal loading. Our team collaborated with local engineers to tailor data logging intervals and provided custom dashboard access for regulatory reporting.
For Tailored Recommendations, Technical Documentation, or Integration Support, Contact Pressure Stress Measure.
Our experienced team is ready to assist with your next structural monitoring project. Let us help you choose the right vibrating wire solution for your application.