Description: The Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler, known as the ADCP is a discharge measurement device that does not require a stage discharge curve. The ADCP relies on SONAR which uses sound waves to determine the distance to targets. The Doppler Effect is used to resolve the speed of targets. There a several systems that use ADCP technology and careful attention must be made in selection of the system that is best for the application. Some of the applications include the up looking ADCP, side looking ADCP and down looking ADCP.
The up looking ADCP is mounted to the bottom of a stream or canal where debris is very minimal. Channel dimensions must be programmed into the sensor. The sensor than measures the velocity and depth of water and assumes discharge.
The up looking ADCP is effective in tidal areas or ocean to measure current, where current changes even though the water level may remain the same. The ADCP is optimally suited for canals, estuaries, river deltas, and river reaches that experience backwater and is protected from debris in the current. ADCP's are expensive piece of equipment and careful location consideration is important to prevent the chance of damage from debris and shifting rocks
Costs USD Lower: $6,000
Costs USD Upper: $18,000
Accessories: ACCESSORIES
Advantages: Calculates discharge without the need for a stage discharge relationship. Well suited in tidal areas where there are changes in flow direction
Disadvantages: Is subjected to damage if located in water with debris . Not suitibale in areas with channel morphology or where there is significant change to the channel cross section.
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