1. Althensensors
  2. Instrumentation
  3. Fiber optic instrumentation

Fiber optic instrumentation

High-precision measurements in interference-prone, demanding applications

The WLPI fiber optic measurement solutions enable precise measurements in particularly demanding applications. They are available for measuring strain, pressure, displacement and temperature. We also offer a selection of special sensors that are already in use by customers. Matching signal evaluation units and OEM boards round off the WLPI Messtechnik range.

  • INDEPENDENT AND FREE CONSULTATION
  • CUSTOMISABLE DESIGN
  • INTEGRABLE INTO YOUR SYSTEMS

Products

Fiber optic OEM boards

  • Gives OEM's the best in design flexibility
  • Many interface options for easy integration

Fiber optical signal conditioners

  • High linearity and precision
  • Multi-channel & purpose signal conditioner
TAILOR-MADE OR COMPLETE CUSTOMIZATIONS

Not exactly what you are looking for?

We can help you with a customized design or a complete measurement solution.

Request an offer

  • Quick reply
  • Cost-efficient
  • Tailored to your needs

What are the advantages of our fiber optic instrumentation?

  • Insensitive to high voltages and electromagnetic interference
  • High long-term stability
  • Intrinsically safe
  • Resistant and robust
  • No drift
  • Maintenance-free after installation "plug & forget"


Possible applications for fiber optic instrumentation (WLPI)

  • General industry
  • Aerospace
  • Defence
  • Geotechnics
  • Civil engineering
  • Structural monitoring
  • Energy / Renewable energies
  • Chemical industry
  • Food industry

Examples of fiber optic measurement instrumentation

Examples of fiber optic measurement solutions that use the WLPI principle include

  • Temperature monitoring in high-voltage systems and transformers: Fiber optic sensors can be embedded in transformers to monitor temperature distribution and detect potential overheating problems at an early stage.
  • Strain and load measurements in structures such as bridges, buildings or tunnels: Fiber optic sensors can be integrated into the structure to monitor deformations and stresses due to loads caused by traffic or environmental factors.
  • Monitoring of pipelines and borehole conditions in the oil and gas industry: fiber optic sensors can be placed in pipelines or boreholes to detect changes in pressure, temperature and flow to optimise operating conditions and prevent leaks.
  • Monitoring biological parameters in medicine: fiber optic sensors can be used in medical devices such as catheters to continuously monitor physiological parameters such as blood pressure, oxygen saturation or temperature and improve patient care.

These examples illustrate the versatile applications of fiber optic measurement instrumentation that use the WLPI principle to monitor and measure various physical parameters in different industries and applications.

  • Restistant
    Our sensors are insensitive to high voltages and electromagnetic interference.
  • Plug & forget
    There is no need for naintenance after the installation of theses sensors.
  • Wide range of applications
    The sensors are available for measuring strain, pressure, displacement and temperature.

Fiber optic measurement solutions for every application: what sets us apart

We have the right fibre optic sensor for every application. We are happy to support you in your selection. At Althen, we draw on more than 45 years of experience to offer you the optimum solution, tailored to your requirements. This also includes customised fibre optic sensors as a complete package. The advantage for you is that we are not tied to one manufacturer and can advise you independently. On request, we can customise the measuring system exactly to your needs. Do you have any questions? We are here to help you!

Fiber optic sensors in action

Would you like to get to know our products in practice? Here you can gain exciting insights into our customers' projects:
Discover more projects & applications

Our services

Feel free to contact our engineers.

How can we help you with your application?

We offer standard fiber optic instrumentation but can also help you with a customized design or a complete measurement solution.

Request an offer

  • Quick reply
  • Cost-efficient
  • Tailored to your needs

What are WLPI fiber optic sensors?

WLPI stands for "White Light Polarisation Interferometry". It is a type of fibre optic sensor that is frequently used in measurement and sensor technology to carry out very precise measurements of surface profiles and properties.

How WLPI fiber optic sensors work

WLPI fiber optic sensors use the properties of optical fiber to measure physical variables such as temperature, strain, pressure or acceleration. These sensors are based on the principle of interference of light waves and work with an optical fibre cable consisting of a core and a surrounding sheath.The core material of the fiber cable has a certain refractive index, which changes when the cable is subjected to an external influence such as strain or pressure. This change in the refractive index leads to a change in the propagation speed of the light in the core, which in turn leads to a change in the phase position or wavelength of the light.

The WLPI sensor measures this change in the wavelength of the light in order to draw conclusions about the physical quantity acting on the fibre cable. To do this, a light signal is sent through the fibre cable and reflected at a reflective end of the cable. The reflected light is then compared interferometrically with the transmitted light in order to determine the change in wavelength. This change is then converted into the corresponding physical quantity and output.

By using fiber optic sensors, physical quantities can be measured in environments where conventional sensors cannot be used due to electromagnetic interference or high temperatures. They are used in various areas such as industrial automation, structural monitoring of buildings and medical diagnostics.

WLPI fiber optic sensors offer a number of advantages, including high sensitivity, fast measurements and non-invasive characteristics. They find applications in areas such as surface inspection, microstructuring, semiconductor manufacturing and medical imaging.