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Title: Gage for measuring displacements in rock samples

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5387073

A gage for measuring diametral displacement within a rock sample for use in a rock mechanics laboratory and in the field, comprises a support ring housing a linear variable differential transformer (LVDT), a mounting screw, and a leaf spring. The mounting screw is adjustable and defines a first point of contact with the rock sample. The leaf spring has opposite ends fixed to the inner periphery of the mounting ring. An intermediate portion of the leaf spring projecting radially inward from the ring is formed with a dimple defining a second point of contact with the sample. The first and second points of contact are diametrically opposed to each other. The LVDT is mounted in the ring with its axis parallel to the line of measurement and its core rod received in the dimple of the leaf spring. Any change in the length of the line between the first and second support points is directly communicated to the LVDT. The leaf spring is rigid to completely support lateral forces so that the LVDT is free of all load for improved precision.

Research Organization:
Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC04-76DP00789
Assignee:
Dept. of Energy
Application Number:
ON: DE86013694
OSTI ID:
5387073
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English