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This post advertising an article comparing methods of water level
measurement (not water content content) was distributed on IRL, and I
thought it was relevant enough to forward to sowacs.
Bruce
Electronic water level sensing equipment is becoming increasingly important
for the implementation of water conservation programs in irrigation
districts. A need has risen for information on costs,
advantages/disadvantages, required support equipment, and required
maintenance for the various options. For this reason, the Water
Conservation Office of the Mid-Pacific Region of the US Bureau of
Reclamation contracted with the Cal Poly ITRC to conduct a study on water
level sensors and dataloggers.
The report provides detailed summary tables of sensor and datalogger
specifications as well as ratings for these units resulting from the ITRC
study. Additionally, flowcharts are provided to aid in choosing a
datalogger and sensor type.
The full report explains all the useful information that was gained from the
yearlong study. Sections on power requirements, sensor output signals, data
storage, calibration, low-power applications, batteries, solar power,
relays, lightning protection, stilling wells, and others give
recommendations and hints on setting up sensors and dataloggers. Eighteen
sensors and 14 dataloggers are reviewed in detail, covering power
requirements, options, installation, programming, wiring, maintenance, and
other topics. Additionally, test procedures and specific results for each
unit are supplied.
This report will be a valuable reference for those interested in both
stationary and portable monitoring situations, as well as those who always
wondered why one should choose a transducer vs. an ultrasonic sensor vs.
some type of bubbler vs. some type of float device to measure water levels.
The report shows that not only are there are significant differences between
categories of devices, but that there are also major differences between
models and manufacturers within a single category.
To purchase the report contact ITRC at
e-mail: cburt@calpoly.edu
Charles M. Burt, P.E., Ph.D.
Director, Irrigation Training and Research Center (ITRC)
and Professor, BioResource and Agricultural Engineering Department
California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly)
San Luis Obispo, California 93407
direct phone: (805) 756-2379
sect. phone: (805) 756-2434
FAX: (805) 756-2433
e-mail: cburt@calpoly.edu
web page: www.itrc.org