Techniques and Methods 3-A22
ABSTRACTThe use of acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCPs) from a moving boat is now a commonly used method for measuring streamflow. The technology and methods for making ADCP-based discharge measurements are different from the technology and methods used to make traditional discharge measurements with mechanical meters. Although the ADCP is a valuable tool for measuring streamflow, it is only accurate when used with appropriate techniques. This report presents guidance on the use of ADCPs for measuring streamflow; this guidance is based on the experience of U.S. Geological Survey employees and published reports, papers, and memorandums of the U.S. Geological Survey. The guidance is presented in a logical progression, from predeployment planning, to field-data collection, and finally to post-processing of the collected data. Acoustic Doppler technology and the instruments currently (2008) available also are discussed to highlight the advantages and limitations of the technology. More in-depth, technical explanations of how an ADCP measures streamflow and what to do when measuring in moving-bed conditions are presented in the appendixes. ADCP users need to know the proper procedures for measuring discharge from a moving boat and why those procedures are required, so that when the user encounters unusual field conditions, the procedures can be adapted without sacrificing the accuracy of the streamflow-measurement data. |
First posted January 22, 2009
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Mueller, D.S., and Wagner, C.R., 2009, Measuring discharge with acoustic Doppler current profilers from a moving boat: U.S. Geological Survey Techniques and Methods 3A-22, 72 p. (available online at http://pubs.water.usgs.gov/tm3a22)
Abstract
Introduction
Predeployment Preparation
Field Procedures
Office Procedures
Selected References
Appendix A - Basic ADCP Operational Concepts
Appendix B - Collecting Data in Moving-Bed Conditions
Appendix C - Description of Water Modes
Appendix D - Beam-Alignment Test
Appendix E - Forms and Quick-Reference Guides
Appendix F - Measurement Review Procedures