Not every project requires a permanent monitoring installation.

Across WA’s construction, infrastructure and mining industries, there are may situations where sensors are only needed for a short period, whether it be during excavation, load testing or high risk phases. In the cases, rental options can be a practical and low cost path to high quality data.

In this article, we run through our tiltmeter rental offerings and how they can prove invaluable to short term and tight budget projects in WA. For more information or to arrange a site visit, get in touch.

Why Rent a Tiltmeter?

Tilt sensors are widely used to detect angular movement in structures and conduct slope stability monitoring. But although they’re required by projects all over WA, purchasing and maintaining them isn’t always efficient.

Renting allows site managers to access the latest monitoring technology without the upfront investment. It’s perfect for short term monitoring programs or works governed by tight budget. Other benefits include the reduced need for long term storage and maintenance as well as the flexibility to scale your monitoring efforts up or down as needed.

Rentals are particularly valuable for consultants or contractors managing multiple projects at a time. If those projects have varying monitoring requirements, you won’t need to bear the costs of purchasing countless units

When Does Renting a Tiltmeter Make Sense?

Renting a tilt sensor is the most effective option for projects with clearly defined timelines or temporary risk periods. This includes:

Excavation and Temporary Works

Retaining walls and other structures can experience brief periods of movement during excavation. Monitoring ground movement with a tiltmeter lets engineers understand the extent of deviation and any associated risks. The sensors can be quickly and easily removed once the rental period ends.

Construction Phase Monitoring

Piling, loading and structural modifications can all introduce temporary instability. Renting a tiltmeter allows engineers to monitor these risks without spending capital on a permanent system.

Proof Testing

Tilt sensors are ideal for ground movement monitoring during load testing and commissioning phases. Rentals are a great option if structural performance verification is your only use for a sensor.

Emergency or Reactive Monitoring

Unexpected movement could occur at any time and your project might not be able to afford the upfront costs of purchasing a monitoring system. Tiltmeter rentals can be rapidly deployed to provide immediate data and support critical decisions.

Our Consultants Work to Maintain the Highest Standards of Data Quality

“Rental equipment compromises on quality”. This is one of the biggest misconceptions in structural and geotechnical monitoring.

It’s easy to understand why – accurate data is the key in making the right decision around safety, compliance and project goals. Poor or misinterpreted data could be disastrous.

But, with expert configuration and calibration, a rented tiltmeter delivers the same level of accuracy and reliability as any permanent installation. Monitel consultants are trained in ensuring sensors are:

• Correctly installed and aligned
• Calibrated before deployment
• Integrated into a suitable data acquisition system
• Checked on and maintained throughout the monitoring periods

That training is completed right here in WA so our entire team understands of how sensors must adapt to the state’s harsh and varying environments.

Monitel’s Flexible Approach to Monitoring

Every project is different. Different environments, different goals, different regulatory boundaries. We believe every monitoring solution should reflect that.

Renting a tilt sensor provides flexibility for projects where:

• Monitoring is only required for a specific phase
• Budgets need to be carefully managed
• Rapid deployment is critical
• Equipment requirements may change over time

Flexibility also comes in our brand and technology agnostic approach. Although we partner with Viotel, Osprey Measurements and Wisen to supply market leading tiltmeters, we never put brand allegiance above the needs of your project. All sensors are chosen to suit the environmental and regulatory realities of your site, not what’s best for our bottom line.

That allows us to maintain the highest standard of safety, compliance and monitoring.

Get in Touch to Arrange Ground Movement Monitoring

Whether you need monitoring for a few weeks or several months, we can deliver a solution that fits your timeline, budget and risk profile.

A project may be temporary, but it still demands accurate and reliable data. Whether you need monitoring for a few weeks or several months, Monitel can deliver a solution that fits your timeline, budget and risk profile.

All solutions are supported with full system design, installation assistance, data integration and ongoing maintenance. Our consultants are also available to assist with your reporting and liaison with regulatory bodies.

To arrange ground movement monitoring on your site or discuss our sensor range, get in touch.

 

Strain gauge load cells provide data on force distribution, load shifts and structural performance. For major civil engineering projects in Western Australia, they’re an essential element of an accurate and compliant monitoring system.

Monitel tailors load cell monitoring systems to each and every project, enabling site managers and engineers to make informed, confident decisions.

This article explores 5 core benefits of strain gauge load cell monitoring and how a tailored system from Monitel ensures they deliver maximum value to your project. For more information, get in touch with one of our consultants.

1. Precise Force Measurement

Large structures are subject to changing load conditions. Strain gauge load cells offer the chance to monitor those variations at frequent intervals and with great accuracy. By monitoring props, anchors and struts, engineers can assess whether loads remain within design parameters and make an informed, evidence supported response should shifts occur.

2. Simple, Low Disruption Installation

Strain gauge load cells are a compact sensor and can be integrated into most structures without delaying works. Our installation experience includes within concrete pours, bolted onto steel members and incorporated into jacking systems.

Our consultants work closely with site managers to time installations to suit staging requirements.

3. Remote Monitoring Capabilities

Monitel sensors are compatible with most typically data loggers and telemetry systems to provide real time access to force measurements. They are also capable of remote monitoring, meaning you can access strain gauge load cell data whether you are based off or on site. This is particularly valuable in high risk or space constrained projects.

Our data dashboards also have alert functions, reducing the need for manual checks and ensuring site managers stay up to date and informed.

4. Long Term Durability and Stability

Long term monitoring is only successful when your sensors remain accurate and reliable over the whole monitoring period. Strain gauge load cells are renowned for their long term stability and built in protections against moisture and corrosion.

Monitel consultants have a deep understanding of Western Australian conditions and will select a sensor with proven success on sites like yours. All cabling and protective enclosures are also selected to suit project conditions.

5. Custom System Design for Complex Structures

Large civil projects are rarely simple. Engineers often have to work around curved tunnel segments, dynamic soil conditions and other factors. Strain gauge load cells can be customised in their form and data output to suit your monitoring needs.

Rather than relying on an off the shelf system, Monitel customises signal amplification, multiplexers and sensor selection to match your projects load type and regulatory requirements.

How We Use Strain Gauge Load Cells on Civil Projects

Monitel has helped clients across Western Australia secure safety and compliance with strain gauge load cells. Our deployment history includes:

• Bridge Bearing Monitoring: Measuring live and dead loads across supports to detect differential movement or overload

• Retaining Wall Projects: Monitoring soil structure interaction through loads on ground anchors or structural props

• Tunnel Lining Support: Evaluating stress distribution across tunnel segments or linings under live load conditions

• Temporary Works: Tracking load changes on struts, jacks and formwork in shoring systems to manage risk during staging

• Deep Excavations: Observing axial force in multi level bracing to ensure ground movement remains within design tolerance

Why Partner With Monitel?

Our consultants don’t just supply and install load cells, they designed tailored monitoring systems that integrate seamlessly into your site’s structures and compliance frameworks. Monitel has supported major projects across WA and understands the environmental realities of our state.

We offer:

• Tailored system design using strain gauge, vibrating wire or hydraulic load cell technologies, as well as other sensors

• Product agnostic sensor selection – ensuring your system works for you

• Data integration with most standard loggers supported by cloud dashboards and threshold alerts

• Maintenance and remote support

Enquire About Strain Gauge Load Cells and Other Sensors

Whether you’re managing temporary works in a tight residential area or planning a new bridge, the Monitel team will help you monitor what matters with market leading instrumentation.

For more information about the price, availability and application of strain gauge load cells, contact our team today.

Selecting the right type of load cell boils down to 4 key factors:

• The site’s environment

• Performance requirements for the project

• Your data handling preferences

• The length of the monitoring period

Both strain gauge and hydraulic load cells offer reliable and accurate measurements, but they fit differently into the above criteria. This comparison unpacks the differences in these two technologies to assist you in making an informed monitoring decision.

For more information or to enquire about sensor installation, contact Monitel today.

What Are Strain Gauge Load Cells?

Strain gauge load cells measure force with electrical resistance. As a load is applied to the cell, an internal steel or aluminium element will deform, changing the resistance in the attached strain gauge(s). Wheatstone bridge circuits convert these changes into electrical signals that are representative of the applied load.

Strain gauge load cells are a sensor known for their high sensitivity, compact design and compatibility with most typical data logging systems.

What Are Hydraulic Load Cells?

Hydraulic load cells have a different working mechanism, using fluid pressure to measure the force of an applied load. An internal diaphragm compresses, moving fluid into a pressure transducer. The resulting pressure change corresponds to the force applied the load. Because there are no electrical components at the sensing point, hydraulic load cells are ideal for:

• Remote environments

• Sites in harsh or dangerous climates

• Long term deployments on powerless sites

• Areas with significant EMI

How They’re Different

Installation

Strain Gauge:

• Requires wiring, connectors and robust shielding

• Must be carefully installed to avoid moisture damage

• The precision required can make installation a lengthy process

Hydraulic:

• No electrical components at the sensing point

• Simple installation, often quicker on site

• Tubing to the transducer must be protected

Our thoughts: Whilst strain gauge systems might offer greater flexibility and precision, hydraulic solutions are faster and cheaper to install on remote or inaccessible sites.

Measurement Precision

Strain Gauge:

• Extremely sensitive with high resolution

• Well suited to dynamic measurements and short term tests

• When properly installed, can be accurate down to millivolt range

Hydraulic:

• Incredibly stable under static conditions

• Can experience minor hysteresis depending on fluid type

• Precision can vary in dynamic conditions

Our thoughts: For a fast, high resolution response, a strain gauge load cell is the best choice.

Electrical Interference and Harsh Environments

Strain Gauge:

• Can be vulnerable to EMI, especially near manufacturing areas

• Requires shielding and careful grounding to negate excessive interference

Hydraulic:

• Immune to EMI as it utilises a mechanical sensing mechanism

• Ideal for high voltage zones or electrically noisy environments

Our thoughts: If your site is in a harsh or electrically active area, a hydraulic load cell is the safest choice.

Long-Term Stability and Maintenance

Strain Gauge:

• Typically stable but can be affected by corrosion, cable damage and signal drift as the monitoring period progresses

• Requires regular inspection of connectors and seals to ensure accuracy

Hydraulic:

• Very stable in static load measurement

• Fewer electronic parts reduce the risk of long term failure

• Must be regularly monitored for fluid leaks or temperature effects, which can impact accuracy

Our thoughts: If you are designing a long term monitoring system, a hydraulic sensor’s accuracy and minimal maintenance requirements make it a suitable choice.

A Quick Guide for Common WA Scenarios

Our consultants have a deep knowledge of Western Australia’s regulatory and environmental conditions and use that understanding to create effective, efficient monitoring solutions.

Tailoring Systems Based on Site Requirements

When selecting a load cell type, we consider:

• Data Frequency – Strain gauges are best when forces are changing rapidly

• Environment – If the site is remote or EMI prone, a hydraulic cell is best

• Power Access – No power? Hydraulic is your only option

• Longevity vs Agility – Strain gauges might be more agile, but they’ll need more maintenance over time

Monitel will assess site conditions to determine which technology is most suitable and advise you of an appropriate monitoring plan.

Product Agnostic Approach

At Monitel, we pride ourselves on taking a product and brand agnostic approach. We are not tied to any one supplier and instead work with a range of load cell models and attachments to create the most compatible and lasting solution for each site.

Our focus is on accurate data and practical installation, not margins and markups. You’ll never be sold equipment you don’t need and will always be able to upgrade or scale in time.

Get in Touch and Reap the Rewards of a Tailored Monitoring System

If you’re unsure as to whether a hydraulic, strain gauge or other load cell sensor best suits your project, Monitel is here to help.

For more information about the application and price of a hydraulic or strain gauge load cell, contact the Monitel office.

Hydraulic load cells are a popular choice for monitoring programs on harsh or hard to access sites.

But like any other instrument, they need correct and scheduled calibration to provide meaningful data. Monitel’s consultants are experienced in calibrating hydraulic load cells and delivering the reports required by WA’s regulatory bodies.

This article explains what calibration is, why it matters and how our process ensures each hydraulic load cell performs reliably throughout its entire deployment. For more information or to discuss your site, contact Monitel.

What Is Calibration and Why Does It Matter?

Calibration is the process of verifying that a load cell is producing accurate force measurements within its working range. For a hydraulic load cell, this means ensuring internal fluid pressure corresponds precisely with the applied load.

Calibration is essential for any type of sensor, because with out it:

• Site managers may receive incorrect readings that either underestimate or overestimate force

• Data may not be an accurate reflection of field conditions

But most importantly, sensor data informs critical decisions. Should units be poorly calibrated, even a 5-10% deviation can cause misinterpretations that lead to structural failures, safety risks and regulatory violations.

How Monitel Consultants Perform Hydraulic Load Cell Calibration

At Monitel, our consultants calibrate hydraulic load cells in controlled environments, using widely accepted methods and traceable standards.

Our process looks like this:

1. Bench Setup: The load cell is installed in a test rig, where a known load is incrementally applied

2. Fluid Pressurisation: As each increment is applied, our consultants record rises in fluid pressure

3. Verification Against Standards: We compare the recorded levels against known force values to assess repeatability and accuracy

4. Curve Creation: We create a calibration curve that maps pressure to actual force, assisting them in assessing the sensor’s performance

5. Certificate Issued: Site managers are provided a full calibration report, detailing traceable references, performance metrics and recommendations for further action

What to Consider When Recalibrating in the Field

When recalibrating a hydraulic load cell that has already been deployed, Monitel consultants account for:

• Zeroing after installation, especially if the sensor is connected via long tubing runs or if fluid levels shift

• Any damage to surface indicators or abnormal readings, which could require gauge replacements

• Fluid chamber integrity checks, ensuring readings aren’t affected by air ingress or evaporation

Our team can also assist with calibrating vibrating wire and strain gauge load cells during staged loading or excavation phases.

Monitel’s Hydraulic Load Cell Services

Monitel designs monitoring solutions that address the operational realities of Western Australian projects. Our consultants provide end to end support that ensures accurate, reliable data throughout the length of the monitoring program.

Our services include:

• System design and sensor selection

• Installation, including on site verification

• Integration with data loggers and transducers

• Custom calibration for non-standard systems

• Ongoing support for maintenance, quality assurance and recalibration during multi-year projects

All sensors are calibrated prior to dispatch and delivered with compliance certificates.

To Discuss Your Project’s Requirements, Contact Monitel

Whether you’re designing a new monitoring program or verifying the stability of a decades old dam, Monitel consultants can assist with calibrating your load cells and gathering accurate data.

For more information about the price and availability of hydraulic load cells, contact Monitel today.

FAQs

Hydraulic load cells are a hardy instrument for monitoring force in remote and unforgiving environments. Their rugged build makes them a popular choice where other sensors will almost certainly fail.

But their accuracy and effectiveness hinges on more than just the sensor – how readings are captured, logged and interpreted is just as important to the quality of your data. Monitel systems are designed to maximise sensor performance and ensure data makes sense. Our consultants provide end to end support, assisting from sensor selection through to regulatory reporting.

In this article, we break down how hydraulic load cells output data and how you can ensure it’s accurate. For more information or to discuss your site’s requirements, contact Monitel.

Understanding Hydraulic Load Cell Outputs

Hydraulic load cells operate on a simple working principle: fluid pressure.

As pressure is applied to the cell body, a sealed fluid is compressed, which in turn exerts pressure on a measuring device. This pressure is proportional to the applied load.

Monitel’s load cell systems are compatible with two ways of reading data:

• Bourdon Gauges: Data is read manually on this mechanical gauge, ideal for quick checks or sites with no power access

• Pressure Transducer: Pressure is converted into an electrical signal, which is then sent to a data logger for automated monitoring

Each method offers its own benefits. The right fit for your site will be determined by your required accuracy, frequency of monitoring and how the sensor integrates with other instruments.

Using a Bourdon Gauge

A Bourdon gauge’s manual readings are often chosen for low risk projects or when resources are limited.

To ensure reliable data, Monitel installs gauges inside weatherproof enclosures and:

• Records readings at consistent intervals (whether that be daily or weekly)

• Logs external factors like temperature, weather and site conditions alongside readings

• Uses calibrated gauges and routinely checks for mechanical drift

Used for short term projects or visual verification, Bourdon gauges work fine on their own. But should you need long term monitoring or threshold alerts, they will need to be paired with data loggers.

Using Pressure Transducers

Pressure transducers allow site managers to track real time data with minimal manual inputs. By converting pressure measurements into a standardised electrical signal, they enable:

• Continuous data capture over extended periods

• Integration with remote data loggers, telemetry systems or SCADA

• Automated threshold notifications and reporting

Monitel consultants will typically install pressure transducers as part of an integrated system. Load cells, power supply and data loggers are combined in weatherproof enclosures to transmit measurements to your central database via cellular or satellite networks.

4 Tips for Accurate and Reliable Data Logging with Hydraulic Load Cells

• Protect Tubing and Connections: Use reinforced lines and secure fittings to prevent any damage or leakage to your equipment.

• Ventilation: Ensure the fluid system is properly vented to avoid trapped air, which can skew results.

• Temperature Compensation: Where possible, choose sensors or loggers with built in temperature adjustment. This is especially important for climate volatile sites.

• Routine Verification: Schedule periodic checks with Monitel consultants to validate logger accuracy against manual readings.

Monitel’s Complete Hydraulic Load Cell Monitoring Services

At Monitel, we understand Australian sites require robust monitoring systems designed for maximum performance in unforgiving conditions. Our services include:

• Assistance designing systems and selecting appropriate equipment

• Installation, including precise calibration and secure mounting

• Data logging and integration, including connection of pressure transducers and alert set up

• Training, calibration, maintenance and more ongoing support to ensure your system delivers long term

• Reporting assistance

We’re proud of our brand and technology agnostic approach. Monitel has no allegiance to any one company or sensor and will always opt for the product that best serves your site. To view our full range, click here.

Contact Monitel to Arrange a Hydraulic Load Cell Monitoring System

Monitel consultants work closely with site managers and engineers to tailor monitoring systems to Western Australian conditions. Hydraulic load cells form crucial parts of those systems, offering a reliable monitoring solution in unforgiving conditions.

For more information on the price and availability of hydraulic load cells, contact Monitel today.