Rain Gauges & Pluviometers

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Pluviometers

ICT International's pluviometers consists of a tipping-bucket rain gauge with a data logger. These precision systems offer standalone measurement suitable for any short-term or long-term remote data logging application. They are especially suitable for research and measuring rainfall. Rainfall events from the rain gauge are stored in memory, which can be downloaded to a laptop or desktop computer.

Applications:

  • Catchment measurement
  • Flood studies / alerts
  • Rainfall intensity
  • Meteorological rainfall monitoring
  • Agriculture and horticulture
  • Hydrology
  • Runoff monitoring
  • Soil erosion

Pluviometer Product Range
Commercial Grade
(Regular interval logging)
PLVEM5-50

The PLEM5-50 Pluviometer consists of a EM5B data logger with the ECRN-50 tipping-bucket rain gauge. The ECRN-50 has a 1mm tip. This low-cost system offers standalone measurement suitable for any short-term or long-term application. The EM5B data logger features very low current consumption, requiring only 4 x AAA batteries for up to 6 months use. Rainfall events from the rain gauge are stored in memory, which can be downloaded to a laptop or desktop computer in Excel format.
PLVEM5-100

The PLEM5-100 Pluviometer consists of a EM5B data logger with the ECRN-100 tipping-bucket rain gauge. The ECRN-100 has a 0.2mm tip. This low-cost system offers standalone measurement suitable for any short-term or long-term application. The EM5B data logger features very low current consumption, requiring only 4 x AAA batteries for up to 6 months use. Rainfall events from the rain gauge are stored in memory, which can be downloaded to a laptop or desktop computer in Excel format.
PLVEM50-100

The PLEM50-100 Pluviometer consists of a tipping-bucket rain gauge with 0.2 mm tip and EM50 data logger. This system offers standalone measurement suitable for any short-term or long-term application. It features very low current consumption, requiring only 5 x AA batteries for up to 12 months use. Rainfall events from the rain gauge are stored in memory, which can be downloaded to a laptop or desktop computer in Excel format.

Research Grade
(Event logging)

The ML1 Event logger features:
   Low Cost
   Small and Compact
   Low power consumption
   Records events
   Memory Wrap
   Download to computer


PLVML1-100

The PLVML1-100 Pluviometer consists of a tipping-bucket rain gauge with 0.2 mm tip and ML1 event data logger. This system offers standalone measurement suitable for any short-term or long-term application. It features very low current consumption, providing 2 to 3 years of normal use. Rainfall events from the rain gauge are stored in memory, which can be downloaded to a laptop or desktop computer.
PLV6

The PLV6 Pluviometer consists of the TB6 tipping bucket rain gauge with 0.2 mm tip and ML1 event data logger, offering a stand-alone measurement system suitable for any short or long term application. The receiver is powder coated machined aluminium casing and the base is ABS plastic. The TB6 is expected to function for 5 years without service or calibration. Rainfall events from the rain gauge are stored in memory, which can be downloaded to a laptop or desktop computer.
PLV4

The PLV4 Pluviometer consists of the TB4 tipping bucket rain gauge with 0.2 mm tip and ML1 event data logger, offering a stand-alone measurement system suitable for any short or long term application. The receiver is powder coated machined aluminium casing and the base is ABS plastic. The TB4 is expected to function for 5 years without service or calibration. Rainfall events from the rain gauge are stored in memory, which can be downloaded to a laptop or desktop computer.
PLV3

The PLV3 Pluviometer consists of the TB3 tipping bucket rain gauge with 0.2 mm tip and ML1 event data logger, offering a stand-alone measurement system suitable for any short or long term application. The TB3 has the highest specification of materials, construction and calibration. It is expected to function for 10 to 20 years without service or calibration. Rainfall events from the rain gauge are stored in memory, which can be downloaded to a laptop or desktop computer.

 

Request Quote | Download brochure


Rain Gauges


TB6, TB4 and TB3 Raingauges


The design of these rain gauges includes several features to maintain accuracy of measurement. The TB4 and TB3 rain gauges include a syphoning device which "smooths" the flow of water through the system, which minimises errors associated with varying intensity of rainfall. Rainfall is captured in the 200 mm diameter collector funnel and is directed through a syphon (TB4 & TB3) to fill a divided tipping bucket device. The bucket is pivoted through its centre and has a preset calibration to tip for 0.2 mm of rainfall. When full, the bucket pivots and empties. This action magnetically closes and opens a reed switch, sending a pulse signal to the data logger or electronic counter. Through this tipping "seesaw" action, the other side of the bucket is aligned to receive the flow from the delivery pipe. The recording and tipping cycle continues with rainfall while fine stainless-steel mesh prevents debris such as dirt and insects from entering the workings of the rain gauge. Other features to ensure maintained accuracy include a level bubble adhered to the base.

View research grade pluviometers instead


TB6 TB4 TB3
TB6 Diagram TB4 Diagram TB3 Diagram


Feature Comparisons
Rain Gauge TB6 TB4 TB3
Download Brochure
(Includes Rain gauge and event logger)
PLV6 Brochure PLV4 Brochure PLV3 Brochure
Suitable for: Low rainfall intensities High rainfall intensities High rainfall intensities
Factory Calibration: Standard Standard Extensive
Tipping bucket: Double-spoon
Chrome plated ABS
Double-spoon
Chrome plated ABS
Double-spoon
Choice of synthetic ceramic coated brass bucket balanced to ±0.05 gms (TB3 M) or chrome plated ABS (TB3 P)
Base: ABS ABS Diecast aluminium
Catch / Enclosure: Powercoated aluminium Powercoated aluminium Powercoated aluminium
Mounting: Three 10 mm diameter mounting holes at 117 mm p.c.d. in feet moulded to outside diameter of base
Bucket pivot system: Two stainless steel rolling bearings, mounted at 90 degrees to bucket axle Ground sapphire pivots with hard stainless steel shaft
Tip Size: 0.2 mm Standard and 0.5 mm Optional 0.2 mm Standard or 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm Optional
Resolution: 0. 2 mm / 0.5 mm 0. 2 mm / 0.5 mm / 1.0 mm
Range: 0 to 500 mm rainfall/hr 0 to 500 mm rainfall/hr 0 to 700 mm rainfall/hr
Overall Height: 342 mm 342 mm 342 mm
Level: Bullseye level at base
Accuracy: ±2% from 0 to 100 mm/hr.
±3% from 100 to 300 mm/hr
±2% from 25 to 300 mm/hr
±3% from 300 to 500 mm/hr
Syphon: No syphon, funnel only
Suitable for low rainfall intensities
Syphon system made from brass with a non-hygroscopic* outer case
Long term calibration and accuracy ensures stability at high rainfall intensities
(* Non-hygroscopic materials do not absorb moisture)
Collector Diameter: 200 mm
Measurement Units: Millimetres
Humidity Range: 0 to 100%
Switch Closure: Dual reed switches potted in soft silicon rubber with varistor protection
Packed Dimensions: 3.2 Kg, 0.03 m3

Decagon's Tipping Bucket Rain Gauges


The ECRN-100 and ECRN-50 are simple self-emptying electronic rain gauges. They are made of durable plastic that is UV and water-resistant. Configured as volume gauges, they are useful for measuring the output of irrigation systems in terms of liters per hour.

ECRN-100 Rain Gauge

The ECRN-100 is suitable for use with the ML1, Em50 and Em5b dataloggers.

ECRN-50 Rain Gauge

The ECRN-50 is suitable for use with the Em5b datalogger.

Feature Comparisons
ECRN-100 ECRN-50
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Related
Pluviometers
Applications
  • Catchment measurement
  • Flood studies / alerts
  • Rainfall intensity
  • Meteorological rainfall monitoring
  • Agriculture and horticulture
  • Hydrology
  • Runoff monitoring
Features
  • Best for research applications and measuring rainfall
  • Double-spoon tipping bucket
  • Robust design
  • Best for measuring irrigation events
  • Single-spoon tipping bucket
  • Robust design
Specifications
Tipping bucket: Double-spoon Single-spoon
Tip: 0.2 mm tip 1 mm
Resolution 0.25 mm 1 mm
Measurement units: Millimetres Millimetres
Sensor type: Tipping bucket Tipping bucket
Humidity range: 0 to 100% 0 to 100%
Reliability 10+ years (With proper maintenance & cleaning) 10+ years (With proper maintenance & cleaning)
Dimensions 170 mm x 142 mm 100mm x 50mm
Material: High-impact ABS Construction High-impact ABS Construction
Connector type: 3.5 mm plug 3.5 mm plug

Smart Logger Tipping Bucket Rain Gauge


The 'smart' digital tipping bucket rain gauge by ICT International provides reliable measurement of rainfall and intensity. The design includes several features to maintain accuracy of measurement, including a siphoning device which 'smooths' the flow of water through the system, minimising errors associated with varying intensity of rainfall.

Rainfall is captured in the 203 mm diameter collector funnel and is directed through a delivery pipe to fill a divided tipping bucket device. The bucket is pivoted through its centre and has a preset calibration to tip for 0.2, or 0.5 or 1.0mm of rainfall. When full, the bucket pivots and empties. This action magnetically closes and opens a reed switch, sending a pulse signal to the data logger or electronic counter. Through this tipping 'seesaw' action, the other side of the bucket is aligned to receive the flow from the delivery pipe.

The recording and tipping cycle continues with rainfall while fine stainless-steel mesh prevents debris such as dirt and insects from entering the workings of the rain gauge.

Multi-use flexibility

ICT's 'smart' tipping bucket rain gauge can be used as an integral component of the EnviroStation ™ weather station; a stand-alone 'plug and play' rain gauge used with an ICT Smart Logger; a standard tipping bucket rain gauge for integration with an existing weather station or data logger.

The smart rain gauge can calculate maximum rain rate, daily total from 9am to 9am as well as the 24-hour total. When connected to a Smart Logger the rain gauge can be used to calculate total rainfall in any logging period that is set in the logger.

 

Applications Features
Catchment measurement Corrosion-resistant materials
Flood studies/alerts Robust design
Rainfall intensity Options for 0.2, 0.5 or 1mm per tip
Meteorological rainfall monitoring Can be upgraded to pluviometer
Automatic weather stations Simple re-calibration procedure
Agriculture and horticulture Low power consumption
Hydrology  
Runoff monitoring  

Links and Brochures
Download a printer-friendly version of Tipping bucket rain-gauge (205K PDF)
Interpreting Smart Logger Rain Gauge Readings page
Download a printer-friendly version of Interpreting Smart Logger Rain Gauge Readings (205K PDF)
Meteorology Instrumentation page

 

Request Quote | Download brochure


ML1 Event Logger


The ML1 is a one channel data logger specifically designed for recording rain fall events, both amount and intensity, from tipping bucket rain gauges. As only events are recorded, battery life is extended and data storage is minimised. Very low power consumption and a robust aluminium waterproof housing allow this logger to be deployed in the field for up to five years in remote locations.

Events are stored in the memory, which can then be downloaded to a computer, using WinComLog to download and graph data which can be used in Excel. An RS-232 serial port allows the direct connection of the ML1 to a computer on site. WinComLog can be set up to record specific minimum event amounts, for example, if the tipping bucket is 0.2mm and the required recorded event must be in increments of 1mm then set the INC field to be 0.2 multiplied by 5.

Advantages of event loggers over timed interval loggers:

  • Rainfall intensity can be determined because the time of every tip is recorded. This is, for example, especially useful for studying soil erosion.
  • Each event is time stamped allowing graphic visualisation of rainfall and rainfall intensity over time. (Sample graph)
  • Minimises power usage.
  • The event logger data set does not contain any nulls (Sample file). Timed interval data sets can contain many rows of non-data (Sample file) and depending on the interval may fill memory more quickly.

Features:

  • Small and Compact
  • Low power consumption
  • Records events rather than time intervals
  • Memory Wrap for continuous logging

 


ML1 Event Logging Pluviometers
PLVML1-100    PLV4 
PLV6    PLV3 





Specifications
Events Recorded: 100,000 events
Communications: RS232 Port, (Tx, Rx)
Dimensions: 65x 60x 40 mm
Weight: 200 Grams

 

Commercial Grade Pluviometers


Feature Comparisons
PLVEM5-50 PLVEM5-100 PLVEM50-100
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thumbnail for full size
Specifications PLVEM5-50 PLVEM5-100 PLVEM50-100
Tipping bucket: Single-spoon Double-spoon ABS
   Material: High-impact ABS Construction
Mounting: Attach to post or pole Attach to post or pole
Tip Size: 1.0 mm 0.2 mm
Resolution: 1.0 mm 0.2 mm
Range: 0 to 300 mm rainfall/hr
Overall Height: 100 mm 140 mm
Level: Level bubble in enclosure
Accuracy: ±5%
Dimensions: 100 mm x 50 mm 170 mm x 142 mm
Measurement Units: Millimetres
Humidity Range: 0 to 100%
Connector type: 3.5 mm plug
PLVEM5-50 PLVEM5-100 PLVEM50-100
Data Logger EM5 EM50
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thumbnail for full size
Enclosure: Weatherproof, impact and UV-resistant polymer
Good for normal conditions
Weatherproof, impact and UV-resistant polymer
Excellent in any condition
Power Consumption: Batteries last up to 6 months Batteries last up to 12 months
Battery: 4 AA Alkaline or Lithium batteries 5 AA Alkaline or Lithium batteries
Data Memory: 49 Kb (3,400 scans on all 5 ports) 1MB (36,800 scans on all 5 ports)
Communications: 3.5 mm plug 3.5 mm plug
Dimensions: 95 mm x 75 mm x 35 mm 120 mm x 200 mm x 50 mm
Weight: 150 gms 450 gms

 

Research Grade Pluviometers


Feature Comparisons
PLVML1-100 PLV6 PLV4 PLV3
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thumbnail for full size
Print Brochure   PLV6 Brochure PLV4 Brochure PLV3 Brochure
Rain Gauge ECRN100 TB6 TB4 TB3
Suitable for: Low rainfall intensities Low rainfall intensities High rainfall intensities High rainfall intensities
Factory Calibration: Standard Standard Extensive
Tipping bucket: Double-spoon ABS Double-spoon
Chrome plated ABS
Double-spoon
Chrome plated ABS
Double-spoon
Choice of synthetic ceramic coated brass bucket balanced to ±0.05 gms (TB3 M) or chrome plated ABS (TB3 P)
Base: n/a ABS ABS Diecast aluminium
Catch / Enclosure: ABS Powercoated aluminium Powercoated aluminium Powercoated aluminium
Mounting: Attach to post or pole Three 10 mm diameter mounting holes at 117 mm p.c.d. in feet moulded to outside diameter of base
Bucket pivot system: ABS moulded with metal axel Two stainless steel rolling bearings, mounted at 90 degrees to bucket axle Ground sapphire pivots with hard stainless steel shaft
Tip Size: 0.2 mm 0.2 mm Standard and 0.5 mm Optional 0.2 mm Standard or 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm Optional
Resolution: 0.2 mm 0. 2 mm / 0.5 mm 0. 2 mm / 0.5 mm / 1.0 mm
Range: 0 to 300 mm rainfall/hr 0 to 500 mm rainfall/hr 0 to 500 mm rainfall/hr 0 to 700 mm rainfall/hr
Overall Height: 140 mm 342 mm 342 mm 342 mm
Level: Level bubble in enclosure Bullseye level at base
Accuracy: ±5% ±2% from 0 to 100 mm/hr.
±3% from 100 to 300 mm/hr
±2% from 25 to 300 mm/hr
±3% from 300 to 500 mm/hr
Syphon: No syphon No syphon, funnel only
Suitable for low rainfall intensities
Syphon system made from brass with a non-hygroscopic* outer case
Long term calibration and accuracy ensures stability at high rainfall intensities
(* Non-hygroscopic materials do not absorb moisture)
Collector Diameter: 165 mm 200 mm
Measurement Units: Millimetres Millimetres
Humidity Range: 0 to 100% 0 to 100%
Switch Closure: Dual reed switches potted in soft silicon rubber with varistor protection
Packed Dimensions: 1.5 Kg, 0.022 m3 3.2 Kg, 0.03 m3
ML1 Event Logger

PLVML1-100 PLV6 PLV1 PLV2
Features: Only records tipping events, saving data memory and battery. Very low current consumption.
Power Consumption: Closed switch with expected life of 2 to 3 years Open switch with expected life of 2 to 5 years depending on rainfall environment
Battery: Single 3.6V Lithium battery
Data Memory: 512KB Serial Flash EPROM records up to 100,000 events with 1 second resolution
Communications: RS232 Port, (Tx, Rx)
Dimensions: 65 mm x 60 mm x 40 mm
Weight: 200 gms

 

Request Quote | Specification Sheet




FCD Field Calibration Unit


The FCD is a light, portable device that allows field calibration tests. Using this instrument will save time in the field. The advantage of using a Field Calibration Device is that the Tipping Bucket Raingauges can remain fixed in their location and are therefore only out of service for a very short period of time.

The Field Calibration Device nozzle is unscrewed from the cylinder, which is in turn filled with water to the very top. The nozzle is then screwed back on the cylinder and placed through the holding plate which sits on the catch of any Tipping Bucket Raingauge. When the cap on the Field Calibration Device is closed, the air is entrapped in the cylinder. When the cap is removed a vacuum is created and the water is released down through the nozzle and into the Tipping Bucket Raingauge.

A preset volume (653ml) water will discharge through the Tipping Bucket Raingauge. This process is to be repeated a second time for an accurate calibration check. The number of tips can be manually counted or stored on the data logger for calibration check evidence and then checked with "Calibration Specifications" to confirm that the results come within the acceptable range.

 

Download a print version of PLV6 Brochure
Download a print version of PLV4 Brochure
Download a print version of PLV3 Brochure
Download a print version of Rain Gauges Brochure
Download a print version of ML1 Event Logger Brochure
Meteorology Instrumentation page

 

 



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