Precision Draw Wire Sensors for Accurate Displacement Monitoring

Compact and rugged string pot sensors for linear position tracking in industrial and structural environments.

Overview

Draw wire sensors, also known as string potentiometers or string pots, are highly effective devices for linear displacement measurement. This webpage details the technical capabilities, use cases, and industry relevance of draw wire sensors. These sensors are ideal for monitoring real-time movement in machinery, structures, and automated systems where compact installation and robust performance are essential.

Offering precision, versatility, and cost-effectiveness, draw wire sensors are widely used in industrial automation, civil infrastructure, and test environments. As a leading B2B provider across North America, Displacement Deformation supports clients with dependable linear measurement solutions built for durability, accuracy, and ease of integration. Our sensors simplify distance measurement across extended ranges while minimizing wear and maintenance. By combining technology innovation, strict QA processes, and tailored support, we help organizations deploy reliable, scalable solutions that elevate operational intelligence and control.

Comprehensive Sensor Offerings from GAO Tek and GAO RFID

In addition to offering products and systems developed by our team and trusted partners for Draw Wire (String Pot) Sensors, 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.

Core Components

Hardware Components

Offers high-resolution measurement with a rugged cable retraction mechanism, suitable for distances up to 3 meters.

Converts voltage or current signals from the sensor to industrial PLC-compatible output levels.

Enables long-term logging and wireless transmission of displacement data to cloud or local systems.

Software Components

Configures sensor output ranges, tracks calibration data, and enables real-time visualization of displacement trends.

Key Features and Functionalities

High linear accuracy over short and long ranges
Compact sensor housings for easy installation in tight spaces
Flexible mounting with adjustable cable exit options
Long-life spring mechanisms for continuous duty cycles
Analog or digital output options (voltage, current, or encoder-based)
Rugged IP-rated enclosures for outdoor or harsh industrial use

Our draw wire sensors easily integrate with:

PLCs and data acquisition systems
Structural health monitoring (SHM) platforms
Motion control systems in automation equipment
Testing rigs and laboratory instrumentation
SCADA and remote monitoring interfaces

Monitoring displacement in bridges, tunnels, and large structures
Actuator position feedback in heavy equipment
Machine component movement in manufacturing lines
Lift and crane height tracking
Load frame and material testing displacement tracking

Case Studies

1. U.S. Department of Transportation – Bridge Monitoring, Pennsylvania

Displacement Deformation deployed weather-resistant draw wire sensors to monitor bridge expansion joints over seasonal cycles. The sensors provided real-time feedback to the control system, helping engineers identify early signs of structural fatigue and reduce inspection intervals by 30%.Our capacitive sensors were deployed in an advanced photolithography system to achieve sub-micron stage control. The sensor’s high-speed feedback loop enabled better alignment precision, reducing defects by over 18% and increasing overall system throughput.

2. U.S. Aerospace Component Manufacturer – California

Our sensors were used to track linear motion of aircraft control surfaces during mechanical fatigue testing. With a ±0.1% full-scale accuracy and rugged enclosures, the sensors enabled precise data collection under high dynamic load conditions.

3. Canadian Mining Operations – British Columbia

In a large-scale open-pit mining operation, draw wire sensors from Displacement Deformation were installed to monitor equipment boom extension in hydraulic excavators. The reliable measurement helped operators automate load balancing and improve safety on steep grades.

Contact Us

Looking for precision linear displacement monitoring solutions? Displacement Deformation can help.