OTT MF pro, Operating Instructions Manual

Page: 22 / 40

Operation
Stream profiles
Stations and station spacing
For a well-chosen cross-section, division into 25 to 30 partial sections is typically sufficient. If the
cross-section is very smooth and the velocity distribution very consistent, it is possible to decrease
the number of stations.
Make the distance between the partial stations so that no individual station contains more than 10%
of the discharge. The ideal measurement is one in which each partial station contains 5% or less (≤
5%) of the total discharge, but this is rarely possible when 25 stations are used. Partial stations
should not have equal widths across the entire cross-section unless the discharge is well-distributed.
Distances between stations are generally smaller where water depth and flow velocities change
significantly. Places where depth and velocities frequently change significantly include bank areas,
vertical or steep slopes, ledges in divided cross-sections and transitions from the main stream bed to
the foreland. Stations should also be located at points of significant changes in the stream bed
profile.
The measurement cross-section must be set at right angles to the direction of flow. Cross-sections
must not contain still areas, counter currents or eddies. Do not put the sensor in deep pools, below
large inflows, or near ship moorings, ferries or sluices.
Use
Table 3 as a guide for the number of stations necessary for an acceptable measurement. The
information is based on EN - ISO 748 standards.
Table 3 Number of stations in relation to the waterway width
Feet Meters Number of stations
< 1.6 < 0.5 5 to 6
> 1.6 and < 3.3 > 0.5 and < 1 6 to 7
> 3.3 and < 9.8 > 1 and < 3 7 to 12
> 9.8 and < 16.4 > 3 and < 5 13 to 16
> 16.4 ≥ 5 ≥ 22
Measure velocity
Measurement quality is dependent on the correct selection of a measurement cross-section. Select a
section of stream with the following characteristics:
• The flow directions at each measurement point across the stream are parallel to the bank and
perpendicular to the cross-section.
• The streambed is stable and free of large rocks, weeds and protruding obstructions such as piers
that cause turbulence.
It is often not possible to completely satisfy all of these conditions. Use the criteria to select the best
possible section and then select a cross-section.
The general procedure to take velocity measurements in river and stream profiles is described below.
Make the first measurement in a stream profile at the top or bottom. Make each subsequent
measurement below the last one.
• In fixed mode, divide the channel into stations of equal width.
• Conduct a velocity measurement at each station. The portable meter shows and stores the depth
and measured velocity information.
• When the stream profile is completed, the meter automatically calculates the total flow.
For accurate measurement results, stand to the side of the instrument. Refer to Figure 10 .
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