Instruction Manual

Model 1300
A-9 Retrievable Extensometer

No part of this instruction manual may be reproduced, by any means, without the written consent of Geokon, Inc.
The information contained herein is believed to be accurate and reliable. However, Geokon, Inc. assumes no responsibility for
errors, omissions, or misinterpretation. The information herein is subject to change without notification.

Copyright © 1995-2020 by Geokon, Inc.

(Doc. Rev M 04/20/20)
Warranty Statement

Geokon, Inc. warrants its products to be free of defects in materials and workmanship, under
normal use and service for a period of 13 months from date of purchase. If the unit should
malfunction, it must be returned to the factory for evaluation, freight prepaid. Upon examination
by Geokon, if the unit is found to be defective, it will be repaired or replaced at no charge.
However, the WARRANTY is VOID if the unit shows evidence of having been tampered with
or shows evidence of being damaged as a result of excessive corrosion or current, heat, moisture
or vibration, improper specification, misapplication, misuse or other operating conditions outside
of Geokon's control. Components which wear or which are damaged by misuse are not
warranted. This includes fuses and batteries.

Geokon manufactures scientific instruments whose misuse is potentially dangerous. The

instruments are intended to be installed and used only by qualified personnel. There are no
warranties except as stated herein. There are no other warranties, expressed or implied, including
but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability and of fitness for a particular
purpose. Geokon, Inc. is not responsible for any damages or losses caused to other equipment,
whether direct, indirect, incidental, special or consequential which the purchaser may experience
as a result of the installation or use of the product. The buyer's sole remedy for any breach of this
agreement by Geokon, Inc. or any breach of any warranty by Geokon, Inc. shall not exceed the
purchase price paid by the purchaser to Geokon, Inc. for the unit or units, or equipment directly
affected by such breach. Under no circumstances will Geokon reimburse the claimant for loss
incurred in removing and/or reinstalling equipment.

Every precaution for accuracy has been taken in the preparation of manuals and/or software,
however, Geokon, Inc. neither assumes responsibility for any omissions or errors that may
appear nor assumes liability for any damages or losses that result from the use of the products in
accordance with the information contained in the manual or software.
 TABLE of CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 THEORY OF OPERATION ....................................................................................................................................... 1
2. INSTALLATION .................................................................................................................................................... 2
2.1 PRELIMINARY TESTS............................................................................................................................................ 2
2.2 EXTENSOMETER INSTALLATION .......................................................................................................................... 2
2.3 CABLE INSTALLATION AND SPLICING .................................................................................................................. 4
2.4 INITIAL READINGS ............................................................................................................................................... 5
2.5 ELECTRICAL NOISE .............................................................................................................................................. 5
2.6 LIGHTNING PROTECTION ..................................................................................................................................... 5
3. TAKING READINGS ............................................................................................................................................. 6
3.1 GK-404 READOUT BOX ....................................................................................................................................... 6
3.1.1 Operating the GK-404 ................................................................................................................................ 6
3.2 GK-405 READOUT BOX ....................................................................................................................................... 7
3.2.1 Connecting Sensors with a 10-pin Bulkhead............................................................................................... 7
3.2.2 Sensors with Bare Leads ............................................................................................................................. 7
3.2.3 Operating the GK-405 ................................................................................................................................ 7
3.3 GK-403 READOUT BOX (OBSOLETE MODEL) ...................................................................................................... 8
3.3.1 Connecting Sensors with a 10-pin Bulkhead............................................................................................... 8
3.3.2 Connecting Sensors with Bare Leads .......................................................................................................... 8
3.3.3 Operating the GK-403 ................................................................................................................................ 8
3.4 MEASURING TEMPERATURES............................................................................................................................... 8
4. DATA REDUCTION .............................................................................................................................................. 9
4.1 DIGITS ................................................................................................................................................................. 9
4.2 TEMPERATURE CORRECTION ............................................................................................................................. 11
5. TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................................................................................................................ 13
APPENDIX A. SPECIFICATIONS ......................................................................................................................... 15
A.1 MODEL A-9 RETRIEVABLE EXTENSOMETER TRANSDUCER............................................................................... 15
A.2 THERMISTOR (SEE APPENDIX B. ALSO)............................................................................................................. 15
APPENDIX B. THERMISTOR TEMPERATURE DERIVATION ..................................................................... 16
APPENDIX C. ANCHOR PULLOUT TEST RESULTS ...................................................................................... 17
APPENDIX D. SWAGELOK TUBE FITTING INSTRUCTIONS ...................................................................... 18
D.1 INSTALLATION .................................................................................................................................................. 18
D.2 REASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................................................................................ 19
 FIGURES

FIGURE 1 - MODEL A-9 RETRIEVABLE EXTENSOMETER ANCHOR ................................................................................. 1

FIGURE 2 - MODEL A-9 INSTALLATION ......................................................................................................................... 3
FIGURE 3 - LEMO CONNECTOR TO GK-404 ................................................................................................................... 6
FIGURE 4 - LIVE READINGS – RAW READINGS............................................................................................................... 7
FIGURE 5 - TYPICAL CALIBRATION REPORT .................................................................................................................10
FIGURE 6 - ANCHOR PULLOUT TEST RESULTS ..............................................................................................................17
FIGURE 7 - TUBE INSERTION .........................................................................................................................................18
FIGURE 8 - MAKE A MARK AT SIX O’CLOCK ................................................................................................................18
FIGURE 9 - TIGHTEN ONE AND ONE-QUARTER TURNS .................................................................................................18
FIGURE 10 - MARKS FOR REASSEMBLY ........................................................................................................................19
FIGURE 11 - FERRULES SEATED AGAINST FITTING BODY .............................................................................................19
FIGURE 12 - TIGHTEN NUT SLIGHTLY...........................................................................................................................19

TABLES

TABLE 1 - ENGINEERING UNITS CONVERSION MULTIPLIERS ......................................................................................... 9

TABLE 2 - THERMAL COEFFICIENT CALCULATION CONSTANTS ...................................................................................11
TABLE 3 - THERMAL COEFFICIENTS OF EXPANSION FOR ROD MATERIALS ...................................................................12
TABLE 4 - SAMPLE RESISTANCE ...................................................................................................................................14
TABLE 5 - RESISTANCE WORK SHEET...........................................................................................................................14
TABLE 6 - 1300 SPECIFICATIONS ..................................................................................................................................15
TABLE 7 - THERMISTOR RESISTANCE VERSUS TEMPERATURE ......................................................................................16

EQUATIONS

EQUATION 1 - DIGITS CALCULATION ............................................................................................................................. 9

EQUATION 2 - DEFORMATION CALCULATION ................................................................................................................ 9
EQUATION 3 - THERMALLY CORRECTED DEFORMATION CALCULATION ......................................................................11
EQUATION 4 - THERMAL COEFFICIENT CALCULATION .................................................................................................11
EQUATION 5 - DEFORMATION METER LENGTH CORRECTION .......................................................................................12
EQUATION 6 - ROD LENGTH TEMPERATURE CORRECTION ...........................................................................................12
EQUATION 7 - RESISTANCE TO TEMPERATURE .............................................................................................................16
 1

1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Theory of Operation

The Geokon Model A-9 Retrievable Extensometer is designed primarily for short-term
measurements of deformation in boreholes in concrete, rock, etc. The system is used in both
precast and cast-in-place concrete piles in plate load tests in rock and anywhere deformations
need to be measured in boreholes, either drilled or cast in to the structure being analyzed.

The system consists of pneumatically actuated anchors with spring-loaded transducers that are
connected to one another in series by a single connecting rod. When installed, the anchors are
fixed in place and the transducers measure the deformation between the anchor positions. The
connecting rods are held in tension to eliminate errors due to bowing and friction. Connecting
rods of fiberglass, graphite epoxy, and stainless steel are available.

The standard system is designed to be used in a pipe crafted of either plastic or steel, with an I.D.
of 1.811 to 2.086 inches (46 to 53 millimeter).

Anchor Swagelok for Connecting Ro

Transducer Cable Pistons (8 places)
Transducer

51 mm 429 mm
2.0" 16.875"

Transducer Shaft
Connecting Rod

Nylon Inflation Line

Cable & Tube Slot (4 places)

Top View
Figure 1 - Model A-9 Retrievable Extensometer Anchor
2

2. INSTALLATION
2.1 Preliminary Tests
Before assembly and installation of the extensometer, the transducers should be checked for
proper operation. See Section 3 for readout instructions. In position “B” of the GK-404 and GK-
405 Readouts the gage will read between 2000 and 2500. The transducer may need to be slightly
extended to get a reading. Pull on the Swagelok affixed to the transducer shaft to do this (see
Figure 1).

Checks of electrical continuity can also be made using an ohmmeter. Resistance between the
gage leads should be approximately 180Ω, ±10Ω. Remember to add the cable resistance, which
is approximately 14.7Ω per 1000 ft. (48.5Ω per km) of 22 AWG stranded copper leads at 20 °C.
Multiply this factor by two to account for both directions. Resistance between the green and
white conductors will vary based on temperature; see Table 7 in Appendix B. Resistance
between any conductor and the shield or the case of the sensor should exceed two megohms.

Checks on the actuation of the anchor pistons must be done with care. The anchor must first be
positioned inside a piece of pipe or tubing with an inside diameter of approximately 50 mm (two
inch), before the pistons are actuated by pneumatic pressure. If the pneumatic pressure is applied
to the pistons while the anchor is not inside a tube, the pistons will overrange and in the process
the o-ring seals will be damaged and the pistons will then be unable to hold pneumatic pressure
without leaking

Should any of these preliminary tests fail, see Section 5 for troubleshooting.

2.2 Extensometer Installation

An adequate area must be located for the assembly of the extensometer. Preferably it should be
as long as the extensometer, clear of debris and obstructions. When assembling the extensometer
in the field be especially careful to keep dirt out of the Swagelok fittings for the inflation lines.

1) Determine the anchor positions, i.e., the depth or position in the borehole for each anchor.
Starting with the bottom (deepest) anchor, calculate the distance between it and the second
anchor — this is the increment over which the measurement will be made.

2) The connecting rod must be cut to the proper length to make up this increment. For the
standard 25 mm (one inch) transducer positioned at midrange, the length of the transducer
assembly is 492 mm (19.375"). This length must be deducted from the increment length in
order to make the correct rod length. For example, if the increment length is three meters, the
rod length is 2.508 meters (3.0 - 0.492 = 2.508).

3) Calculate the rod lengths for all anchor positions and cut rods to length. Be careful when
cutting the fiberglass rod that it does not splinter. Use a file to deburr the edges.

4) Connect the rod to the Swagelok fitting on the bottom anchor, pushing it in until it hits the
shoulder. Tighten the Swagelok per instructions in Appendix D.
 3
Manifold
5) Connect the other end of the rod to the Pressure Supply
Regulator
Swagelok fitting on the first transducer
assembly. Repeat this for all the rods and
sensors, leaving the instrument cables rolled
geo kon
Transducer Cables

up.
Position #5
6) Attach an appropriate length of rod to the top
anchor, this will allow for installation and
removal of the system.
Well Casing
30'
7) Cut nylon inflation tubing for each anchor
PVC Pipe
position. Allow enough tubing to connect to
the pressure manifold.
Anchor
Position #4
8) Attach to the Swagelok fitting for the
inflation line and tighten per the instructions Transducer

in Appendix D.
Inflation Lines

9) Lay out all the transducer cables and inflation 10'

lines next to the anchors and attached rods. Connecting Rod

10) Position the lines and cables in the slots of

the anchors and tape on either side of the Position #3

anchors, i.e., tape above the anchor around

the connecting rod and below the anchor
around the transducer body. Continue this
procedure at each anchor position from the 5'

deepest up to the top. Be sure the inflation

lines and transducer cables are clearly
labeled. Allow enough slack, at least the
range of the instrument, (≈25 mm/1") Position #2

between anchor positions for the movement

of the anchors.

11) The assembly is now ready for installation in 5'

the borehole. Lower the assembly into the
borehole with the bottom anchor first. Bend
the connecting rod through a large arc, as
needed to lower the extensometer. Be careful Position #1
not to permanently bend the rods.

12) Once the assembly is installed, attach the

inflation lines to the pressure manifold.
5'
Attach the transducer cables to the terminal
box or multiplexer.

13) Make sure all the valves of the pressure

Bottom Anchor
manifold are in the off position.

Figure 2 - Model A-9 Installation

4

14) Attach the air supply to the pressure manifold. Carbon dioxide, compressed air, or nitrogen
may be used for the pressure supply. The recommended pressure for setting the extensometer
is 300 psi (20 bar). Appendix C illustrates the relationship between applied pressure and
pullout of the anchor. The maximum recommended applied pressure is 750 psi (50 bar).

15) Turn on the air for the deepest position of the extensometer.

16) Attach the readout to the instrument cable from the first transducer position.

17) To set the transducer anchor pull on the extension rod coming out of the borehole until the
desired reading is obtained and then turn on the valve for that position. To set the instrument
at midrange the reading should be around 5000 digits. To measure mostly tensile strains the
reading should be around 3000. To measure mostly compressive strains the reading should be
around 7000. Repeat this procedure for each transducer position of the extensometer.

The installation is now complete.

2.3 Cable Installation and Splicing

The cable should be routed to minimize the possibility of damage due to moving equipment,
debris or other causes. The cable can be protected by the use of flexible conduit, which can be
supplied by Geokon.

Terminal boxes with sealed cable entries are available from Geokon for all types of applications.
These allow many gages to be terminated at one location with complete protection of the lead
wires. The interior panel of the terminal box can have built-in jacks or a single connection with a
rotary position selector switch. Contact Geokon for specific application information.

Because the vibrating wire output signal is a frequency rather than a current or voltage,
variations in cable resistance have little effect on gage readings; therefore, splicing of cables has
no ill effects, and in some cases may in fact be beneficial. The cable used for making splices
should be a high quality twisted pair type, with 100% shielding and an integral shield drain wire.
When splicing, it is very important that the shield drain wires be spliced together. Always
maintain polarity by connecting color to color.

Splice kits recommended by Geokon incorporate casts, which are placed around the splice and
are then filled with epoxy to waterproof the connections. When properly made, this type of splice
is equal or superior to the cable in strength and electrical properties. Contact Geokon for splicing
materials and additional cable splicing instructions.

Cables may be terminated by stripping and tinning the individual conductors and then connecting
them to the patch cord of a readout box. Alternatively, a connector may be used which will plug
directly into the readout box or to a receptacle on a special patch cord.
 5

2.4 Initial Readings

All readings are referred to the initial reading; it is very important that this initial reading
be carefully taken. Conditions should be noted at the time of all readings, especially during
curing, e.g., temperature, time after placement, local conditions, etc.

2.5 Electrical Noise

Care should be exercised when installing instrument cables to keep them as far away as possible
from sources of electrical interference such as power lines, generators, motors, transformers, arc
welders, etc. Cables should never be buried or run with AC power lines! The instrument
cables will pick up the 50 or 60 Hz (or other frequency) noise from the power cable and this will
likely cause a problem obtaining a stable reading.

2.6 Lightning Protection

The Model 1300 Retrievable Extensometer, unlike numerous other types of instrumentation
available from Geokon, does not have any integral lightning protection components, i.e.,
transzorbs or plasma surge arrestors. Usually this is not a problem however, if the instrument
cable is exposed, it may be appropriate to install lightning protection components, as the
transient could travel down the cable to the gage and possibly destroy it.

Note the following suggestions:

• If the gage is connected to a terminal box or multiplexer components such as plasma surge
arrestors (spark gaps) may be installed in the terminal box/multiplexer to provide a measure
of transient protection. Terminal boxes and multiplexers available from Geokon provide
locations for installation of these components.

• Lighting arrestor boards and enclosures are available from Geokon that install near the
instrument. The enclosure has a removable top, allowing access to the protection board. In
the event that the (LAB-3) is damaged, the user may service the components or replace the
board. A connection is made between this enclosure and earth ground to facilitate the passing
of transients away from the gage. Consult the factory for additional information on these or
alternate lightning protection schemes.

• Plasma surge arrestors can be epoxy potted into the gage cable close to the sensor. A ground
strap would connect the surge arrestor to earth ground, either a grounding stake or other
suitable earth ground.
6

3. TAKING READINGS
3.1 GK-404 Readout Box

The Model GK-404 Vibrating Wire Readout is a portable, low-power, handheld unit that is
capable of running for more than 20 hours continuously on two AA batteries. It is designed for
the readout of all Geokon vibrating wire gages and transducers, and is capable of displaying the
reading in either digits, frequency (Hz), period (µs), or microstrain (µε). The GK-404 also
displays the temperature of the transducer (embedded thermistor) with a resolution of 0.1 °C.

3.1.1 Operating the GK-404

Before use, attach the flying leads to the GK-404 by aligning the red circle on the silver
“Lemo” connector of the flying leads with the red line on the top of the GK-404 (Figure
3). Insert the Lemo connector into the GK-404 until it locks into place.

Figure 3 - Lemo Connector to GK-404

Connect each of the clips on the leads to the matching colors of the sensor conductors,
with blue representing the shield (bare).
To turn the GK-404 on, press the “ON/OFF” button on the front panel of the unit. The
initial startup screen will be displayed. After approximately one second, the GK-404 will
start taking readings and display them based on the settings of the POS and MODE
buttons.

The unit display (from left to right) is as follows:

• The current Position: Set by the POS button, displayed as a letter A through F.
• The current Reading: Set by the MODE button, displayed as a numeric value
followed by the unit of measure.
• Temperature reading of the attached gage in degrees Celsius.

Use the POS button to select position B and the MODE button to select Dg (digits).
(Other functions can be selected as described in the GK-404 Manual.)

The GK-404 will continue to take measurements and display readings until the unit is
turned off, either manually, or if enabled, by the Auto-Off timer. If no reading displays or
the reading is unstable, consult Section 5 for troubleshooting suggestions.

For further information, please see the GK-404 manual.

 7

3.2 GK-405 Readout Box

The GK-405 Vibrating Wire Readout is made up of two components: The Readout Unit,
consisting of a Windows Mobile handheld PC running the GK-405 Vibrating Wire Readout
Application; and the GK-405 Remote Module, which is housed in a weatherproof enclosure and
connects via a cable to the vibrating wire gage to be measured. The two components
communicate wirelessly using Bluetooth®, a reliable digital communications protocol. The
Readout Unit can operate from the cradle of the Remote Module, or, if more convenient, can be
removed and operated up to 20 meters from the Remote Module.

3.2.1 Connecting Sensors with a 10-pin Bulkhead

Align the grooves on the sensor connector (male), with the appropriate connector on the
readout (female connector labeled senor or load cell). Push the connector into place, and
then twist the outer ring of the male connector until it locks into place.

3.2.2 Sensors with Bare Leads

Attach the GK-403-2 flying leads to the bare leads of a Geokon vibrating wire sensor by
connecting each of the clips on the leads to the matching colors of the sensor conductors,
with blue representing the shield (bare).

3.2.3 Operating the GK-405

Press the button labeled “POWER ON (BLUETOOTH)”. A blue light will begin
blinking, signifying that the Remote Module is waiting to connect to the handheld unit.
Launch the GK-405 VWRA program by tapping on “Start” from the handheld PC’s main
window, then “Programs” then the GK-405 VWRA icon. After a few seconds, the blue
light on the Remote Module should stop flashing and remain lit. The Live Readings
Window will be displayed on the handheld PC. Choose display mode “B”. Figure 4
shows a typical vibrating wire output in digits and thermistor output in degrees Celsius. If
no reading displays or the reading is unstable, see Section 5 for troubleshooting
suggestions. For further information, consult the GK-405 Instruction Manual.

Figure 4 - Live Readings – Raw Readings

8

3.3 GK-403 Readout Box (Obsolete Model)

The GK-403 can store gage readings and apply calibration factors to convert readings to
engineering units. The following instructions explain taking gage measurements using Mode
“B”. Consult the GK-403 Instruction Manual for additional information.

3.3.1 Connecting Sensors with a 10-pin Bulkhead

Align the grooves on the sensor connector (male), with the appropriate connector on the
readout (female connector labeled senor or load cell). Push the connector into place, and
then twist the outer ring of the male connector until it locks into place.

3.3.2 Connecting Sensors with Bare Leads

Attach the GK-403-2 flying leads to the bare leads of a Geokon vibrating wire sensor by
connecting each of the clips on the leads to the matching colors of the sensor conductors,
with blue representing the shield (bare).

3.3.3 Operating the GK-403

1) Turn the display selector to position “B”.

2) Turn the unit on.
3) The readout will display the vibrating wire output in digits. The last digit may change
one or two digits while reading.
4) The thermistor reading will be displayed above the gage reading in degrees
centigrade.
5) Press the “Store” button to record the value displayed.

If the no reading displays or the reading is unstable, see Section 5 for troubleshooting
suggestions.

The unit will automatically turn off after approximately two minutes to conserve power.

3.4 Measuring Temperatures

All liquid level sensors are equipped with a thermistor that gives a varying resistance output as
the temperature changes. The white and green leads of the instrument cable are normally
connected to the internal thermistor.

Geokon readout boxes will read the thermistor and display the temperature in degrees C.

To read temperatures using an ohmmeter:

1) Connect an ohmmeter to the green and white thermistor leads coming from the strain
gage. Since the resistance changes with temperature are large, the effect of cable
resistance is usually insignificant. For long cables a correction can be applied, equal to
approximately 14.7Ω/1000' or 48.5Ω/km. Multiply this factor by two to account for both
directions.
2) Look up the temperature for the measured resistance in Appendix B, Table 7.
 9

4. DATA REDUCTION
4.1 Digits

The basic units utilized by Geokon for measurement and reduction of data from the vibrating
wire displacement transducers used in the Model A-9 are “digits”. The units displayed by the
GK-403, GK-404, and GK-405 in position “B” are digits. Calculation of digits is based on the
following equation:

1 2 Hz2
Digits = �
Period
� x 10-3 or Digits= 1000

Equation 1 - Digits Calculation

To convert digits to deformation the following equation applies:

D = (R1 - R0) × G × F
Equation 2 - Deformation Calculation

Where;
D is the calculated deformation.
R1 is the current reading.
R0 is the initial reading usually obtained at installation (see Section 2.4).
G is the calibration factor, usually in terms of millimeters or inches per digit taken from the
calibration report, an example of which is shown in Figure 5.
F is an optional engineering units conversion factor, see Table 1.

From→
To↓ Inches Feet Millimeters Centimeters Meters
Inches 1 12 0.03937 0.3937 39.37
Feet 0.0833 1 0.003281 0.03281 3.281
Millimeters 25.4 304.8 1 10 1000
Centimeters 2.54 30.48 0.10 1 100
Meters 0.0254 0.3048 0.001 0.01 1
Table 1 - Engineering Units Conversion Multipliers

For example, the initial reading (R0) with no load on the pile of a Model A-9 transducer is 5102
digits. The reading with a 100 ton load on the pile, the current reading (R1), is 4523. The
calibration factor, G, is 0.0001755 inches/digit. The deformation change is:

D = (4523 − 5102) × 0.0001755 = − 0.1016 inches

Note that decreasing readings (digits) indicate compression.

To calculate strain, divide the deformation by the distance between the anchors. For example, if
the deformation change between two anchors spaced 12 feet apart was -0.1016 inches. The strain
change for that segment of the pile, uncorrected for temperature, would be -0.1016/144 x 10^6 =
-706 µstrain (compression).
10

Figure 5 - Typical Calibration Report

 11

4.2 Temperature Correction

The Model 4430 Deformation Meter used in the Model A-9 Extensometer has a vibrating wire
transducer with a small coefficient of thermal expansion and the body of the transducer contracts
and expands slightly with changes in temperature. The interconnecting rods also expand and
contract; therefore, in most cases a correction is advisable. Note also that in situations where
temperature changes are large (more than 10 degrees C) it may be prudent to use carbon graphite
rods that have very low coefficients of expansion. The following equation applies:

Dcorrected = (R1 - R0) × G + (T1 - T0) × K + LC + LR)

Equation 3 - Thermally Corrected Deformation Calculation

Where;
R1 is the Current Reading.
R0 is the Initial Reading.
G is the Calibration Factor.
T1 is the Current Temperature.
T0 is the Initial Temperature.
K is the calculated Thermal Coefficient.
LC is the correction for the change in gage length.
LR is the correction for the change in rod length.

Tests have determined that the Thermal Coefficient (K) of the transducer changes with the
position of the transducer shaft. The first step in the temperature correction process is
determination of the proper Thermal Coefficient based on the following equation:

Thermal Coefficient = ((Reading in Digits × Multiplier) + Constant) × Calibration Factor

Or

K = ((R1 × M) + B) × G

Equation 4 - Thermal Coefficient Calculation

See Table 2 for the Multiplier and Constant values used in Equation 4. The Multiplier (M) and
Constant (B) values vary for the stroke of the transducer used in the Deformation Meter.

Model: 4450- 4450- 4450- 4450- 4450- 4450- 4450-

3 mm 12 mm 25 mm 50 mm 100 mm 150 mm 300 mm
4450- 4450-0.5" 4450-1" 4450-2" 4450-4" 4450-6" 4450-12"
0.125"
Multiplier 0.000520 0.000375 0.000369 0.000376 0.000398 0.000384 0.000424
(M):
Constant (B): 3.567 1.08 0.572 0.328 0.0864 -0.3482 -0.6778
Def, Meter 267 mm 267 mm 267 mm 292 mm 393 mm 510.5 mm 715.2 mm
Length (L): 10.5" 10.5" 10.5" 11.5" 15.49" 20.1" 28.2"
Table 2 - Thermal Coefficient Calculation Constants
12

The Model 4430 deformation meter length temperature correction (LC) is calculated using
Equation 5.

LC = 17.3 × 10-6 × L × (T1 - T0)

Equation 5 - Deformation Meter Length Correction

Where L is the length of deformation meter in millimeters or inches, (see Table 2).

The rod length correction (LR) is calculated from the Equation 6:

LR= KR × S × (T1 - T0)

Equation 6 - Rod Length Temperature Correction

Where;
S is the distance between anchor points minus the length of the transducer in mm or inches.
KR is the coefficient of expansion of the rod material from Table 3.

KR Thermal
Rod Material
Coefficient Per º C
Stainless Steel 17.3 x 10-6
Graphite 0.2 x 10-6
Fiberglass 6.0 x 10-6
Table 3 - Thermal Coefficients of Expansion for Rod Materials

Example:

For the same 25 mm range transducer as before where the anchor spacing is 144 inches and the
rods are fiberglass:

R1 = 4523
To= 15 degrees C
T1 = 30 degrees C
S= 144-10.5 = 133.5 inches

Then K = [4523 x 0.000369 +0.572] x 0.0001755 = 0.00039

The total temperature correction is:

(T1 - T0) [K + LC + LR ] = (30 – 15) x [0.00039 + 10.5 x 17.3 x 10-6 + 133.5 x 6.0 x 10-6] =
+0.0206 inches

The total deformation, temperature corrected, is -0.1016 + 0.0206 = -0.081 inches, and the
measured strain is -0.081/144 x 10^6 = - 562 microstrain in compression.
 13

5. TROUBLESHOOTING
Consult the following list of problems and possible solutions should difficulties arise. Consult
the factory for additional troubleshooting help.

Symptom: Thermistor resistance is too high

 Likely, there is an open circuit. Check all connections, terminals, and plugs. If a cut is
located in the cable, splice according to recommended procedures.

Symptom: Thermistor resistance is too low

 A short is likely. Check all connections, terminals, and plugs. If a short is located in the
cable, splice according to recommended procedures.
 Water may have penetrated the interior of the transducer. There is no remedial action.

Symptom: Transducer Readings are Unstable

 Is the readout box position set correctly? If using a datalogger to record readings
automatically, are the swept frequency excitation settings correct? Try reading the transducer
on a different readout position. For instance, channel A of the readout might be able to read
the transducer. To convert the Channel A period display to digits use Equation 1.
 Is there a source of electrical noise nearby? Most probable sources of electrical noise are
motors, generators, transformers, arc welders, and antennas.
 Make sure the shield drain wire is connected to ground whether using a portable readout or
datalogger. Connect the shield drain wire to the readout using the blue clip. (Green for the
GK-401.)
 Has the transducer gone outside its range? This may happen in either compression or
extension. Check the previous readings for any trends. The extensometer may need to be
reinstalled in the borehole.
 Does the readout work with another transducer? If not, the readout may have a low battery or
be malfunctioning. Consult the appropriate readout manual for charging or troubleshooting
directions.

Symptom: Transducer will not hold pressure

 Check all the fittings on the pneumatic lines using a soap solution and observe for bubbles. If
no leaks are found then the o-ring on the anchor piston may be cut or nicked. Replace the o-
ring using one of the spares from the accessories supplied with the equipment. The piston is
held inside the anchor by a small “ding” made by a prick punch. This has to be filed off with
a round file so that the piston can be pushed out. Replace the o-ring and push the piston back
into place. Once again, “ding” the end of the hole with a hammer and screwdriver so that the
piston is once again held in place

.
14

Symptom: Transducer Fails to Read

 Is the cable cut or crushed? This can be checked with an ohmmeter. Check the coil resistance
by connecting an ohmmeter to the sensor leads. Table 4 shows the expected resistance for the
various wire combinations; Table 5 is provided for the customer to fill in the actual resistance
found. Cable resistance is approximately 14.7Ω/1000' or 48.5Ω/km of 22 AWG wire.
Multiply this factor by two to account for both directions.
If the resistance is high or infinite, a cut cable must be suspected. If the resistance is low or
near zero, a short must be suspected. If cuts or shorts are located, the cable may be splices in
accordance with recommended procedures.
 Does the readout or datalogger work with another transducer? If not, the readout or
datalogger may be malfunctioning. Consult the readout or datalogger manual for further
direction.

Vibrating Wire Sensor Lead Grid - SAMPLE VALUES

Red Black White Green Shield

Red N/A ≅180Ω infinite infinite infinite

Black ≅180Ω N/A infinite infinite infinite

White infinite infinite N/A 3000Ω at 25°C infinite

Green infinite infinite 3000Ω at 25°C N/A infinite

Shield infinite infinite infinite infinite N/A

Table 4 - Sample Resistance

Vibrating Wire Sensor Lead Grid - SENSOR NAME/## :

Red Black White Green Shield

Red

Black

White

Green

Shield
Table 5 - Resistance Work Sheet
 15

APPENDIX A. SPECIFICATIONS
A.1 Model A-9 Retrievable Extensometer Transducer

12.5, 25, 50, 100, 150, 200 mm

Ranges Available:1
0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8"
Accuracy: ±0.1%
Resolution: 0.025% FS
Linearity: < 0.5% FS
Thermal Zero Shift: < 0.05% FS/°C
Stability: < 0.2%/yr (under static conditions)
Temperature Range: +10 to +60 °C
Frequency Range: 1200 - 2800 Hz
Coil Resistance: 180 Ω, ±10 Ω
Two twisted pair (four conductor)
Cable Type:2 22 AWG, Foil shield, PVC jacket,
nominal OD=4.8 mm (0.1875")
Rod Types: Stainless steel, fiberglass, graphite
Required Pipe I.D.: 1.811" to 2.086"(46 mm to 53 mm)
Table 6 - 1300 Specifications
Notes:
1 Consult the factory for other ranges available.
2 Consult the factory for alternate cable types.

A.2 Thermistor (See Appendix B. also)

Range: -80 to +150 °C

Accuracy: ±0.5 °C
16

APPENDIX B. THERMISTOR TEMPERATURE DERIVATION

Thermistor Type: YSI 44005, Dale #1C3001-B3, Alpha #13A3001-B3
Resistance to Temperature Equation:

1
T= -273.2
A+B(LnR)+C(LnR)3
Equation 7 - Resistance to Temperature
Where;
T = Temperature in °C.
LnR = Natural Log of Thermistor Resistance.
A = 1.4051 × 10-3
B = 2.369 × 10-4
C = 1.019 × 10-7
Note: Coefficients calculated over the −50 to +150° C. span.
Ohms Temp Ohms Temp Ohms Temp Ohms Temp Ohms Temp
201.1K -50 16.60K -10 2417 +30 525.4 +70 153.2 +110
187.3K -49 15.72K -9 2317 31 507.8 71 149.0 111
174.5K -48 14.90K -8 2221 32 490.9 72 145.0 112
162.7K -47 14.12K -7 2130 33 474.7 73 141.1 113
151.7K -46 13.39K -6 2042 34 459.0 74 137.2 114
141.6K -45 12.70K -5 1959 35 444.0 75 133.6 115
132.2K -44 12.05K -4 1880 36 429.5 76 130.0 116
123.5K -43 11.44K -3 1805 37 415.6 77 126.5 117
115.4K -42 10.86K -2 1733 38 402.2 78 123.2 118
107.9K -41 10.31K -1 1664 39 389.3 79 119.9 119
101.0K -40 9796 0 1598 40 376.9 80 116.8 120
94.48K -39 9310 +1 1535 41 364.9 81 113.8 121
88.46K -38 8851 2 1475 42 353.4 82 110.8 122
82.87K -37 8417 3 1418 43 342.2 83 107.9 123
77.66K -36 8006 4 1363 44 331.5 84 105.2 124
72.81K -35 7618 5 1310 45 321.2 85 102.5 125
68.30K -34 7252 6 1260 46 311.3 86 99.9 126
64.09K -33 6905 7 1212 47 301.7 87 97.3 127
60.17K -32 6576 8 1167 48 292.4 88 94.9 128
56.51K -31 6265 9 1123 49 283.5 89 92.5 129
53.10K -30 5971 10 1081 50 274.9 90 90.2 130
49.91K -29 5692 11 1040 51 266.6 91 87.9 131
46.94K -28 5427 12 1002 52 258.6 92 85.7 132
44.16K -27 5177 13 965.0 53 250.9 93 83.6 133
41.56K -26 4939 14 929.6 54 243.4 94 81.6 134
39.13K -25 4714 15 895.8 55 236.2 95 79.6 135
36.86K -24 4500 16 863.3 56 229.3 96 77.6 136
34.73K -23 4297 17 832.2 57 222.6 97 75.8 137
32.74K -22 4105 18 802.3 58 216.1 98 73.9 138
30.87K -21 3922 19 773.7 59 209.8 99 72.2 139
29.13K -20 3748 20 746.3 60 203.8 100 70.4 140
27.49K -19 3583 21 719.9 61 197.9 101 68.8 141
25.95K -18 3426 22 694.7 62 192.2 102 67.1 142
24.51K -17 3277 23 670.4 63 186.8 103 65.5 143
23.16K -16 3135 24 647.1 64 181.5 104 64.0 144
21.89K -15 3000 25 624.7 65 176.4 105 62.5 145
20.70K -14 2872 26 603.3 66 171.4 106 61.1 146
19.58K -13 2750 27 582.6 67 166.7 107 59.6 147
18.52K -12 2633 28 562.8 68 162.0 108 58.3 148
17.53K -11 2523 29 543.7 69 157.6 109 56.8 149
Table 7 - Thermistor Resistance versus Temperature 55.6 150
 17

APPENDIX C. ANCHOR PULLOUT TEST RESULTS

Pullout tests were conducted with the Model A-9 anchors installed in stainless steel and PVC
pipes to determine the force necessary to fail the anchors.

The results are presented in the following chart.

Retrievable Extensometer (Model A-9) Anchor Pull Out Tests

300 4 Piston Anchor
Stainless Steel Pipe
PVC Pipe
250

200
Pull Out in Lbs.

150

100

50

0
150 200 300 440
Applied Pressure in Psi

Figure 6 - Anchor Pullout Test Results

18

APPENDIX D. SWAGELOK TUBE FITTING INSTRUCTIONS

These instructions apply to one inch (25 mm) and smaller fittings.

D.1 Installation

1) Fully insert the tube into the fitting until it bumps against the shoulder.

Figure 7 - Tube Insertion

2) Rotate the nut until it is finger-tight. (For high-pressure applications as well as high-safety-
factor systems, further tighten the nut until the tube will not turn by hand or move axially in
the fitting.)

3) Mark the nut at the six o’clock position.

Figure 8 - Make a Mark at Six O’clock

4) While holding the fitting body steady, tighten the nut one and one quarter turns, until the
mark is at the nine o’clock position. (Note: For 1/16", 1/8", 3/16", and 2, 3, and 4 mm
fittings, tighten the nut three-quarters of a turn until the mark is at the three o’clock position.)

Figure 9 - Tighten One and One-Quarter Turns

 19

D.2 Reassembly Instructions

Swagelok tube fittings may be disassembled and reassembled many times.

Warning! Always depressurize the system before disassembling a Swagelok tube fitting.

1) Prior to disassembly, mark the tube at the back of the nut, then make a line along the nut and
fitting body flats. These marks will be used during reassembly to ensure the nut is returned to
its current position.

Figure 10 - Marks for Reassembly

2) Disassemble the fitting.

3) Inspect the ferrules for damage and replace if necessary. If the ferrules are replaced the
connector should be treated as a new assembly. Refer to the section above for
installation instructions.

4) Reassemble the fitting by inserting the tube with preswaged ferrules into the fitting until the
front ferrule seats against the fitting body.

Figure 11 - Ferrules Seated Against Fitting Body

5) While holding the fitting body steady, rotate the nut with a wrench to the previous position as
indicated by the marks on the tube and the connector. At this point, there will be a significant
increase in resistance.

6) Tighten the nut slightly.

Figure 12 - Tighten Nut Slightly