Seismic Sensors for Infrastructure Testing and Monitoring

Why use seismic sensors?

Earthquakes and tremors. Foot, automobile and train traffic over roads and bridges. These daily vibratory loads impart low-frequency vibrations on the foundations intended to support them that, if left unmonitored, accumulate as stress and compromise safety. Seismic vibration sensors work to translate ground and infrastructure vibrations into critical information for applications such as:

• Smart Infrastructure: foundation integrity, floor vibration, and security monitoring
• Earthquake detection and sway fatigue analysis
• Structural testing on bridges, building foundations, and pre-stressed concrete assemblies
• Geological formation studies

Smart infrastructure sensors

Smart infrastructure involves active measurement with real-time data logging to inform operators on structural integrity. Immediate results are especially critical during unforeseen loading scenarios. Cities of the future will manage not only new structures, but also those with critical or historical value, reducing potential for catastrophic loss.

With ICP® accelerometers for earthquake monitoring and load impact, structural integrity data can be obtained on a routine, real-time basis. Permanently installed, high-output accelerometers are mounted to bridges, walkways, highways, buildings, and other large structures to capture important trending data. This type of preventive maintenance can warn engineers that structural repair is necessary and alert communities when safety thresholds are approaching.

The PCB® difference

PCB®’s advanced sensor technology takes low-frequency measurements to micro-g levels. Our high sensitivity ICP® accelerometers are specifically designed to enable the detection of ultra-low-level vibrations associated with very large structures, foundations, and earthquakes and tremors. These sensors typically possess exceptional measurement resolution as the result of their comparatively large size, which furnishes a strong output signal and a lower noise floor. All units are hermetically sealed in a titanium or stainless steel housing. Models that include a 2-pin, military style connector provide the added benefit of being electrically case-isolated for superior RF and EMI protection.

Choose PCB® seismic sensors to measure confidently

PCB® sensors for infrastructure testing and monitoring are used by design engineers worldwide. We have thousands of seismic vibration sensors in stock, ready to ship, with lifetime warranty. Find, compare, and shop sensors and accessories online. Call 800.828.8840 24/7 or request a quote.