Effect of vertical motion on current meters
Water Supply Paper
1869-B
By: Nicholas A. Kallio
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Abstract
The effect of vertical motion on the performance of current meters at various stream velocities was evaluated to determine whether accurate discharge measurements can be made from a bobbing boat.
Three types of current meters--Ott, Price, and vane types--were tested under conditions simulating a bobbing boat. A known frequency and amplitude of vertical motion were imparted to the current meter, and the related effect on the measured stream velocity was determined. One test of the Price meter was made under actual conditions, using a boat and standard measuring gear. The results of the test under actual conditions verified those obtained by simulating the vertical movements of a boat.
The tests show that for stream velocities below 2.5 feet per second the accuracy of all three meters is significantly affected when the meters are subjected to certain conditions of vertical motion that can occur during actual field operations. Both the rate of vertical motion and the frequency of vertical oscillation affect the registration of the meter.
The results of these tests, presented in the form of graphs and tables, can be used as a guide to determine whether wind and stream flow are within an acceptable range for a reliable discharge measurement from a boat.
| Publication type | Report |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | USGS Numbered Series |
| Title | Effect of vertical motion on current meters |
| Series title | Water Supply Paper |
| Series number | 1869 |
| Chapter | B |
| DOI | 10.3133/wsp1869B |
| Edition | - |
| Year Published | 1966 |
| Language | ENGLISH |
| Publisher | U.S. G.P.O., |
| Description | iv, 20 p. :ill. ;24 cm. |
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