Which technologies are currently most widely used for sensor-based SHM?

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) is becoming increasingly important in industries such as civil engineering, energy, offshore and infrastructure management. Thanks to technological innovations, organizations can now gain continuous and real-time insight into the condition of structures. But which technologies are most commonly used for sensor-based SHM? Discover the top solutions here and how you can use them strategically for risk management and cost optimization.

Why is sensor-based SHM crucial?

The safety, availability and longevity of bridges, tunnels, wind turbines and buildings increasingly depend on reliable monitoring technology. Traditional inspection methods are often no longer sufficient in an era where predictive maintenance and data-driven decision-making are central.

The most commonly used sensor technologies for SHM

In the Netherlands and worldwide, the following technologies are most commonly used within sensor-based SHM:

1. Accelerometers

Accelerometers detect vibrations and dynamic movements. They are indispensable for monitoring bridges, wind turbines and high-rise structures where vibration analysis is essential.

2. Strain Gauges (Strain Gauges)

These sensors measure the stretch or compression of materials. They provide direct insight into structural load and material behavior, for example in concrete structures or steel structures.

3. Fiber Optic Sensors

Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors are highly sensitive and resistant to extreme conditions. They are widely used in tunnels, dams and rail infrastructure.

4. Inclinometers and Tiltmeters

These sensors measure slope changes and are crucial for ground subsidence, quayside monitoring and geotechnical monitoring.

5. Acoustic emission sensors

For early detection of crack formation and material degradation, especially in composites and metal structures.

6. IoT-based wireless networks

Wireless sensor networks enable rapid installation and real-time data collection. They are increasingly being used for scalable monitoring solutions with low maintenance costs.

The benefits of modern SHM technologies

By using these advanced SHM technologies, organizations benefit from:

• Real-time alerts for structural deviations
• Reduction of inspection and maintenance costs
• Extending the life of assets
• Improved safety and compliance

Especially in regions such as Randstad, North Brabant, Port of Rotterdam and the IJmond area, where infrastructure load is high, SHM is indispensable for asset management.

Discover which SHM solution suits your organization

Are you active in civil engineering, hydraulic engineering, wind energy or asset management? Then contact our specialists in sensor-based SHM. We help you select and implement the right technology, tailored to your specific location and risk profile.

Dexman

We at Dexman know better than anyone that the right information is the most important thing. Because if a measurement is not correct, the solution is of no use to you. This applies not only to the solutions we offer, but also to the way in which we communicate. At Dexman, we stand for quality, service and solution orientation. In this, it is important to provide the right information, offer a good solution and be honest with each other.

Dexman is a supplier with a wide range of load cells, weighing platforms, pallet scales, crane scales,  force sensors, torque meters, measuring amplifiers, pressure sensors en displacement sensors. You can contact us for standard versions, but also for custom-made components and complete weighing solutions. The choice of the right components usually starts with extensive advice.

We are active in the following sectors: offshore, aerospace, logistics, agriculture, food and pharma. Thank you for your interest in Dexman products and services. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you..

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