An overview of the main types of measurements that we can perform follows. Depending on the project requirements and in consultation with the customer, we determine the most appropriate combination of measurement techniques, frequency, duration and sensors. Flanders Hydraulics is not committed to a specific manufacturer or supplier for the purchase of measuring instruments. Furthermore, we personally develop specific instruments that are not available on the market.
Measurements in situ
Flanders Hydraulics has the expertise and equipment to carry out in situ measurement campaigns. The purpose of these measurements is to measure and analyze the hydrodynamicaland physical properties of Flemish waterways and coastal areas.
Description
Flanders Hydraulics offers a complete service package for in situ measurements. This includes the entire process of exploring the measurement locations, organizing and preparing the measurement campaign, mobilizing, executing and demobilizing, and delivering the data, including a factual data report. Flanders Hydraulics uses high-tech measurement equipment to perform the measurements. If necessary, hydrographic vessels from DAB Fleet can be deployed formobile measurements on waterways and coastal areas. In consultation with the client, the most suitable combination of measurement techniques, frequency, duration, and sensors for the project needs is determined. Flanders Hydraulics is not bound to a producer or supplier for the purchase of measurement instruments.
Types of measurements
Flanders Hydraulics can perform the following types of measurements:
I. Measurement of flow velocity and direction:
- Looking in a horizontal or vertical direction
- Profilers or point meters
- Stationary or mobile use
- Acoustic instruments:
- Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCP)
- Acoustic Doppler Velocimeters (ADV)
- Ultrasonic speed meters
- Electromagnetic point meters
II. Measurement of water level/reference level and wave run-up:
- Acoustic, radar, and pressure sensors
- RTK-GPS for height measurements and positioning
III. Measurement and sampling of physical and chemical parameters:
- Multiparameter devices with sensors for turbidity, pressure, conductivity, oxygen content, pH, and temperature
- Sampling equipment for water and soil
IV. Measurement peripherals/platforms for the above mentioned sensors:
- Towed platforms
- Radiographically controlled platforms for measuring the seabed profile and flow profile
- Measurement frames to be placed on the seabedand on beach/mudflat/marsh
- Floating buoys for flow measurements at various adjustable depths, with handheld Garmin-GPS
- Retrievable sleds with rails for mounting measuring instruments on shores/dikes/quays
Measurements on physical models
To perform measurements on scale models and other equipment at Flanders Hydraulics, we determine the most appropriate instrument choice and method. This is based on the parameters to be measured and the available measurement space on the model. The possible measuring instruments include:
- electromagnetic and acoustic velocimeters and discharge meters;
- pressure sensors for static or dynamic pressure;
- wave gauges;
- laser position meters;
- total station and electronic levelling equipment;
- angle sensors and rotational speed indicators;
- force sensors;
- water level gauges;
- calibration devices for control and measurement signals and strain gauges;
- vision systems including Particle Tracking Velocimetry measurements;
- custom-made measuring instruments for specific applications.
Laboratory analyses
We most frequently perform the following analyses in our sedimentological laboratory:
- Grain size distribution;
- Rheological characterisation;
- Density measurements;
- Determination of calcium carbonate and organic matter content;
- Suspended sediment concentration;
- Calibration of measuring devices used in the field.