How can you optimize wind measurement performances?
Obtaining highly reliable and accurate wind data requires a great understanding of the project requirements.
This will dictate the best installation location, the types of instruments, their position and even their orientation.
This chapter will guide you through the basics of performing an accurate wind measurement.
What is a wind measurement?
Wind observations, also called measurements are used for a variety of applications including weather monitoring and forecasting, wind-load climatology, probability of wind damage and estimation of wind energy. This section will provide key definitions commonly used in the wind measurement industry.
What are the usual Wind Velocity & Wind Direction measurement techniques?
The most difficult aspect of wind measurement is the exposure of the anemometer. There are several methods and instruments used to perform wind measurement and observations. Since it is nearly impossible to find a location where the wind speed is representative of a large area, it is recommended that estimates of exposure errors be made.
Which weather parameter may be relevant to your application?
Besides wind measurement, there are many other parameters which may be relevant to your meteorological weather observations. Observator Instruments provides a range of meteorological sensors which are adapted to all types of weather monitoring applications. Typical weather sensors include wind, rain, solar, temperature, humidity and barometric pressure parameters.
How do you determine the true North?
The determination of true north, and thus the site bearings, is essential for proper wind sensor orientation. It is also useful during the tower layout phase of the installation process.
Which location should be avoided when deploying a wind instrument?
Wind measurement should be always being taken from a point well exposed to the wind. It should not be in the lee of obstructions such as buildings, trees and hillocks. If this is not possible, the measurement point should be a good distance from obstructions, namely at least 10 times the obstruction height and upwind or sideways by at least twice the obstruction height.
