Praktische Anwendung von Wärme als Tracer zur Abflussmessung in kleinen Oberflächengewässern

Thermal methods can be used for discharge measurements in open channels. Heat is used as tracer input in the flowing water either as a pulse or by continuous injection. This method minimizes the impact of measurements on the water body. A thermographic camera allows the use of pictures as well as videos for an analysis of flow velocity and transverse dispersion in the open channel. Discharge is calculated by multiplication of flow velocity with the flow cross-section area. The theoretical background as well as the practical setup for small runoff measurements are explained using examples. Information is provided about the equipment which can be useful for specific field tests.