Precision Crack Width Gauges for Structural Monitoring
Reliable, field-tested gauges engineered to detect, monitor, and record surface-level cracks across diverse environments.
Innovative Crack Monitoring for Safer Structures
This webpage explores a diverse range of crack width gauges, highlighting their critical role in structural integrity monitoring across civil, industrial, and commercial applications. From basic visual tools to high-precision mechanical and digital devices, crack width gauges offer reliable, cost-effective ways to assess the movement, formation, and progression of cracks over time. Whether integrated into safety programs, maintenance protocols, or regulatory compliance efforts, these gauges support proactive decision-making. Their compatibility with multiple surfaces and environments makes them ideal for new construction, historic preservation, and infrastructure rehabilitation projects.
Damage Detection Tech, based in Toledo,OH, is a trusted B2B leader in North America. Through innovation, expert guidance, and strict quality assurance, we provide high-performing crack width gauges that meet rigorous demands. Our curated offerings, including collaborations with GAO Tek Inc. and GAO RFID Inc., ensure clients have access to dependable technologies tailored to their needs.
Global Technology Partnerships
In addition to offering products and systems developed by our team and trusted partners for Crack Width Gauges, 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.
System Components
Crack Measurement Hardware
- Offers high-precision crack width measurement with digital readout.
- Features a resolution of up to 0.01 mm for accurate detection.
- Designed for use on concrete, masonry, and metal surfaces.
- Portable and rugged for field deployment in harsh environments.
Wireless Data Transmission
- Enables wireless data capture from sensor nodes or digital gauges equipped with compatible RFID tags.
- Long read range (up to 100 meters) ensures accessibility in large or difficult-to-reach structures.
- Can be integrated into monitoring hubs for centralized data processing.
- Attached near crack locations to detect sudden shifts or structural vibrations.
- Communicates status to the active RFID reader to supplement width readings with stress event data.
- Battery-powered with multi-year lifespan for long-term deployment.
Central Monitoring Software
- Collects real-time data from digital gauges and RFID sensors.
- Visual dashboard displays trends, alert thresholds, and geolocation of cracks.
- Allows remote access via secure cloud interface.
- Customizable alert system sends notifications via SMS/email when cracks exceed safety limits.
Key Features and Functionalities
- Frequency-Based Sensing : Converts mechanical displacement into electrical signals via changes in tensioned wire frequency.
- Temperature Compensation : Built-in thermistors adjust readings to account for environmental temperature changes.
- Long-Term Durability : Designed for decades-long deployment in harsh environments such as submerged foundations or exposed concrete.
- High Precision and Stability : Measurement range typically spans ±10 mm or greater, with high repeatability and low drift.
- Manual or Automated Readout : Compatible with portable VW readouts or integrated with automated data loggers.
Compatibility
- Material Compatibility : Concrete, steel, masonry, composite surfaces.
- Monitoring Systems : Seamlessly integrates with structural health monitoring (SHM) platforms and data acquisition systems.
- Wireless Add-ons : Can be paired with GAO RFID wireless data loggers and gateways for remote reporting.
Applications
- Bridge expansion joint and deck monitoring
- Dam crack movement tracking
- Underground tunnel deformation detection
- Retaining wall and embankment integrity checks
- Post-seismic activity structural assessments
- Long-span roof deflection monitoring
Industries Served
- Civil Infrastructure
- Transportation and Highways
- Energy and Utilities
- Mining and Geotechnical Engineering
- Water and Wastewater
- Construction and Engineering Consultancy
Relevant U.S. & Canadian Industry Standards
- ASTM D6817 – Standard for Monitoring Subsurface Movement
- ASTM D6026 – Standard for Monitoring Soil and Rock Displacement
- ACI 228.2R – Nondestructive Test Methods for Evaluation of Concrete
- CSA S6 – Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code
Case Study
Crack Monitoring on a U.S. Interstate Bridge (Ohio)
In a large-scale rehabilitation project, Damage Detection Tech supplied vibrating wire crack monitors across multiple expansion joints of an interstate bridge in northern Ohio. Over a 12-month monitoring period, our system detected significant seasonal displacement, enabling engineers to time repairs and reinforcement during low-load seasons, reducing costs and minimizing disruption.
Case Study
Tunnel Integrity Assessment in New York
A metropolitan transit authority deployed our VW crack monitors to monitor water ingress cracks in an underground tunnel. The data loggers, synced with GAO RFID wireless transmission units, allowed maintenance teams to monitor crack progression without entering the tunnel regularly—improving safety and reducing labor costs.
Case Study
Canadian Hydroelectric Dam Monitoring (British Columbia)
Damage Detection Tech partnered with a hydroelectric utility to install vibrating wire crack monitors on the spillway and downstream face of a dam. Monitoring over several freeze-thaw cycles helped confirm that micro-movements were within safe thresholds. This avoided premature capital expenditures and reinforced trust in legacy infrastructure.
Our experts at Damage Detection Tech are ready to assist you with personalized recommendations.
To learn more about Vibrating Wire Crack Monitors or to find the right monitoring solution for your infrastructure project, Contact Us today.