Fibre-optic strain sensors are making the leap from lab to industrial use—reliability and validation as a precondition for standards

Abstract

Currently, fibre-optic sensors (FOSs) are commonly used if special requirements make the application of electrical sensors impossible, or economic benefit is promised. The scientific background of FOS technology is well developed; however, there are still some restrictions with respect to long-term reliable use. For widespread practical use, sensor products must be manufactured, characterized and validated according to standards. Guidelines on how to apply sensors and evaluate their operation on-site including special facilities to evaluate applied sensors are needed. This paper will focus on important aspects, such as when FOSs may be used under real practical conditions, and will present validation methodologies to evaluate the overall quality of the sensor system's function. It will also indicate the lack of knowledge and methods to be elaborated to promote the use of FOS.