Young Tipping Bucket Rain Gauge Model 52203 - Manual

R. M. YOUNG COMPANY 2801 Aero Park Drive , Traverse City, Michigan 49686 USA
TEL (231) 946-3980 FAX (231) 946-4772
MODEL 52202 / 52202H / 52203
TIPPING BUCKET RAIN GAUGE
INSTRUCTION SHEET 52202-90
REV H041411
INTRODUCTION
The YOUNG Model 52202 / 52203 Tipping Bucket Rain Gauge meets the
specifications of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Extensive
use of molded thermoplastic components gives maximum performance and
resistance to corrosion. Model 52202 is heated for year-round use, Model 52203
is unheated for use in temperate climates.
LOCATION OF RAIN GAUGE
Precipitation measurement is greatly affected by location of the rain gauge.
Select a location that is naturally protected from gusts and crosswinds. Avoid a
site prone to contamination from debris such as falling leaves, dirt, etc...
INSTALLATION
The Model 52202 / 52203 is fully calibrated at the factory. The movable bucket
is retained to prevent damage during shipment. On installation, the following
procedure should be followed.
1. Loosen 3 screws that retain housing to base assembly. Carefully lift housing
free of base.
2. Remove shipping retainer from bucket. Verify that bucket tips freely.
3. Attach sensor wires and heater wires (when used) to terminals as shown in
wiring diagram.
4. Adjust leveling screws until bulls eye level is centered.
5. Replace housing. If heated, heater wires (gray) must be attached to
terminals C & D before housing is fully engaged. Retighten screws.
MAINTENANCE
The rain gauge should be inspected periodically. Accumulated dirt and
debris should be cleaned from funnel, screen and bucket assembly. Electrical
connections should be inspected and cleaned. Leveling screws may be
readjusted at this time. Periodic recalibration may be desirable to ensure
measurement accuracy.
CALIBRATION
To check or recalibrate the rain gauge, Model 52260 Rain Gauge Calibrator will
simplify the process. If a calibration device is not available, the following steps
will yield satisfactory results:
1. With the rain gauge properly leveled, slowly pour a measured volume
of water into the collection funnel. The rate should not exceed 10 ml per
minute which is approximately 1 inch per hour. The bucket should tip 5 times
for each 10 ml of water. For example, 100 ml should give a count of 50 ±1.
Bucket tips may be counted manually or with a counter connected to the
rain gauge terminals.
2. If the count shows an error of more than 2%, adjust the calibrating screws to
correct the error. Raise the screws if the count is low, lower the screws if the
count is high. Always adjust both screws equally.
SPECIFICATIONS
CATCHMENT AREA: 200 cm 2
RESOLUTION: 0.1 mm per tip
ACCURACY: 2 % up to 25 mm / hr, 3% up to 50 mm/hr
OUTPUT: Magnetic reed switch, normally open
CONTACT RATING: 24V AC / DC 500 mA MAX
OPER. TEMP: -20°C to + 50°C (heated)
POWER: 18 Watts @ 24 VAC for heater only
MOUNTING: Standard 1 Inch Pipe Size, 34mm (1.34") Dia.
16 cm
6.3 in
18.5 cm
7.3 in
30 cm
12 in
9 cm
3.5 in
SIZE 34mm (1.34") DIAMETER
MOUNTING:
STANDARD 1 INCH IRON PIPE
CALIBRATING
SCREW
Power Supplies for
Heated Models