Envco – Environmental Equipment

Accuracy in all weather
The VRG101 measurement principle is based upon the latest high-accuracy, temperature-compensated load cell technology. The single point type load cell is designed for direct mounting of the weighing platform. Eliminating levers and flexures, this allows simple, robust and low cost mechanics. The load cell is insensitive to eccentric loading meaning that unsymmetrical distribution of snow in the collecting bucket does not introduce measurement errors. Another error source, the underestimation caused by water and snow sticking on the inner surfaces of the gauge inlet funnel is solved in the VRG101 design using funnel element resting on top of the collector container. Therefore, all water and snow on it’s surface is included in the measured mass. A larger collection area and extended container volume and geometry enhance performance in light rain and snowfall.

Ease of maintenance
In the design special emphasis has been put on easy maintenance and extended service intervals. The hinged upper part and detachable enclosure door allow smooth access for maintenance or adding antifreeze agents, as well as easy removal of the collector container. The electronics unit, including the load cell is field-removable. Data loss is kept to a minimum, as there is no need to transport the whole gauge to the laboratory for a calibration. If needed, a field check can be done using calibration weights. A wide selection of optional features enhance performance and extends service intervals even more.

Algorithms and output options
The gauge software uses advanced algorithms to filter out noise, spurious signals (caused by i.e. vibration, wind, mechanical impacts or objects entering the collecting container), and to compensate evaporation. In addition to cumulative rainfall the gauge outputs also precipitation intensity, temperature, source voltage, gauge status and warning flags. Complete raw data (weight of the container) is also available e.g. for research purposes. The outputs include configurable RS-232 and RS-485 serial lines and a pulse output used for emulating a tipping bucket.

The VRG101 features technical innovations that provide higher quality of measurement combined with lower life-cycle costs in all weather conditions. Added with advanced mechanical design the VRG101 performance remains inaffect in the most adverse weather conditions know to be problematic for conventional rain gauges.

The Finnish Meteorological Institute has been involved in field-testing the VRG101. The test results show the superior performance of the new Vaisala device in measuring both liquid and solid precipitation. The device is presently undergoing international testing and our distinguished pilot clients include the Climate Reference Network (CRN), the National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) and the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR).

Please read specification sheet and order guide prior to placing an order. Vaisala products are professional grade instruments and have options specific to your application. This information needs to be detailed.