Snow scale
The Snow Scale PCTSL025 is a device designed to measure the equivalent water volume present within the snowpack.
The device, which is characterised by a quick and easy installation and implementation in the field, is made of aluminium plates which guarantee accurate measuring values. A broad frame of panel minimises the effects of ice bridging. The use of lightweight aluminium materials minimize thermal resistance improving heat flow throughout the device for better emulation of natural conditions.
The Snow Scale has an analogue 4 - 20 mA output, therefore integration and connection to weather stations or other signal processing systems are kept easy and simple.
The working principle of the SSG is based on the measuring principle of load cells. The sensor consists of seven perforated panels of a size of 80 x 120 cm each. The center panel and six surrounding panels allow water to percolate through the sensor. The perforated panels minimizes thermal differences between the sensor and the ground. The surrounding panels act to buffer the center panel, where the Snow-Water-Equivalent is measured, from stress concentrations which are developed along the perimeter of the sensor. This system allows accurate measurements even during periods of rapid snow settlement followed by large snow accumulations.
Properties and benefits:
- Continuous measurements of the Snow-Water-Equivalent.
- Reduces effects of ice bridging to a minimum
- Optimises thermal flow between sensor and ground for high accuracy during the melting process
- Robust and long lasting aluminium construction
- Different operating ranges: 1.000, 2.000, 3.000mm of Snow-Water-Equivalent
- No antifreeze liquid required
- Simple system integration
- No special preparation of the measuring site is required.
