Strain Gauge Solutions
Over 40 Years of Expertise
Sensors UK Ltd supply draw wire sensors from WayCon, a world-leading manufacturer of linear position measurement solutions. WayCon draw wire sensors — sometimes called string potentiometers, cable transducers, or yo-yo sensors — convert the linear travel of a stainless steel cable into a precise electrical output signal.
Available in a wide variety of models, measurement ranges, and output signals, WayCon sensors make it straightforward to match the right device to your specific measuring task. Whether you need millimetre-level accuracy over a short stroke or robust measurement across distances of tens of metres, there is a WayCon solution to suit.
WHY CHOOSE WAYCON
Why Choose WayCon Draw Wire Sensors?
Trusted by engineers across automation, manufacturing, and research, WayCon draw wire sensors combine robust construction with high measurement accuracy and flexible integration.
- Ranges from 50 mm up to 50 m in a single sensor family, covering everything from tight assembly checks to large-scale structural monitoring.
- Available with analogue voltage, analogue current (4–20 mA), potentiometric, SSI, CANopen, and other digital outputs — integrating seamlessly with your existing measurement or control system.
- The spring-loaded retraction mechanism and stainless steel cable are enclosed in a compact body, making installation straightforward even in confined or exposed environments.
- Designed for repeatable, long-life measurement with excellent linearity, ensuring reliable results cycle after cycle.
- Our team can help you select the right model, and we hold a range of standard sensors in stock for fast despatch.
- IP-rated enclosures are available for use in wet, dusty, or demanding industrial conditions.
Understanding Draw Wire Sensors
Draw wire sensors offer a simple and elegant approach to linear position measurement. A thin, flexible stainless steel cable is attached to the moving object. As the object moves, the cable is paid out or retracted, and this motion is converted directly into an electrical signal that represents position or displacement.
Cable Extends
The stainless steel wire is attached to the moving target. As it moves away from the sensor, the cable extends smoothly from the housing.
Drum Rotates
The cable wraps around a precision measuring drum inside the housing. Linear movement is converted to rotational movement of the drum.
Signal Generated
A transducer — potentiometer, encoder, or other type — converts the drum rotation into a precise electrical output proportional to the distance travelled.
Cable Retracts
A built-in spring mechanism keeps the cable taut at all times, automatically retracting it as the target returns, ready for the next measurement cycle.
Strain Gauge Applications
Strain gauges are used in a wide range of testing and monitoring scenarios.
Structural engineering
Monitoring bridges, buildings, dams, and other infrastructure to ensure long-term structural integrity.
Automotive and aerospace testing
Measuring stress on vehicle frames, aircraft components, and critical mechanical parts during development.
Materials testing
Studying how metals, composites, and plastics behave under tension, compression, and repeated loading.
Industrial monitoring
Measuring load, torque, and vibration in machinery and production equipment.
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Strain Gauge Solutions
Trusted Kyowa Strain Gauge Supplier
Sensors UK has been supplying Kyowa strain gauges for over 30 years, supporting engineers, researchers, and industrial teams across the UK with reliable strain measurement solutions.
Kyowa is globally recognised for producing high-quality precision strain gauges trusted in demanding applications such as aerospace testing, automotive development, civil engineering, and materials research.
Our long-standing partnership means we can provide dependable supply, expert advice, and the right strain gauge for your application.
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Contact Our Strain Gauge Specialists
Need help choosing the right strain gauge for your application? Our team can help you select the correct gauge, accessories, and measurement equipment for your testing or monitoring requirements.
Whether you’re working on structural testing, product development, or research projects, we can provide expert guidance and product recommendations.
