Description

The TR-525 rain gauge is a freestanding tipping rain bucket style sensor for measuring precipitation totals. It contains an open top, which allows rainfall to fall into the upper portion, which is called the collector. This functions both as a barrier to wind and as a means of regulating the flows into the tipping mechanism to allow for accurate readings. The collected water is funnelled to a mechanical device which incrementally measures the rainfall accumulation and causes a momentary closure of a switch for each unit of rainfall. As water is collected, the tipping bucket fills to the point where it tips over. This action empties the bucket in preparation for additional measurement. Water discharged by the tipping bucket passes out of the rain gauge with no need for emptying. Rain gauges are available for both metric and imperial measures with resolutions starting from 0.01" or 0.2mm. Heated versions are also available on request.

The TR-525MET was designed to meet the need for a rugged and reliable rain gauge tipping bucket with high accuracy and low cost. Resolution on this unit is 0.2mm per pulse and we can provide these units with an internal logger to record rainfall totals, or with any desired cable length to connect to your own monitoring equipment.

Features

• Interfaces to virtually all data acquisition systems
• Knife-edge collector optimizes rainfall catch
• Exceptional splash-out protection to compensate for wind errors
• Easy installation and maintenance
• Over 30 years in production
• Lightweight spun Aluminum Exterior
• Anodized aluminum collector for superior weather resistance
• Integral Bubble Level

Installation & Maintenance

Installation consists of attaching the three sensor support legs to a firm platform (such as the MB-525 Mounting Base). Pole mounting on the mast of a weather station can also be achieved using the included side bracket.

The sensor is dynamically calibrated at the factory and due to the nature of its operation should not require field calibration. Field maintenance should include occasional cleaning of the collector screen and inspection of the internal mechanism to make sure it is free from insects and debris. In some applications users may need to occasionally verify and document sensor accuracy using the FC-525 Field Calibration Kit. A kit is available from stock to test existing units, please contact us for further information.

Field Data Logger Options

LogBox-DA is a small standard alone battery powered data logger with two inputs. The digital input can be used to totalise the pulses generated by the TR-525 rain bucket and provide a detailed recording of the rain fall totals in a specified time frame. The internal memory can retain up to 64,000 readings, which can provide over one years logging with a 10 minute logging period. Readings will need to be collected from site using the IRLink and suitable PC or laptop. The LogBox can be fitted inside the TR-525 to provide a single, easy to install rainfall logging system. The analogue input can also allow for a second input, which could be used for monitoring a temperature probe, or other sensor.