Rain gauges

Rainfall is the measurement most hydrological and agricultural records start from, and the right gauge depends on how the data will be used. Lakshmi Engineering Works makes the full range, from the simple non-recording gauge read by an observer each day to solar-powered digital recorders that run unattended for months.

Which rain gauge do you need?

• Ordinary (non-recording) rain gauge: the reference instrument at most rainfall stations. An observer measures the collected rain once a day with a graduated cylinder. Built to IS 5225.
• Self recording rain gauge: a float and siphon mechanism draws a continuous trace of rainfall on a chart, so you see when it rained and how hard, not only the daily total.
• Tipping bucket rain gauge: an electrical sensor that gives one pulse for every 0.2 mm of rain. It connects to a data logger, an event logger or a weather station.
• Automatic rain gauge: a tipping bucket sensor with its own data logger, solar charging and display in a weatherproof enclosure, for stations without a daily observer.

Choosing between manual and automatic

A manual gauge costs little, needs no power and is easy to check, which is why it is kept as the reference even where automatic gauges are installed. An automatic gauge records rainfall intensity minute by minute and keeps working on remote sites, which matters for flood warning, urban drainage and research. Many stations use both side by side, so the automatic record can be checked against the manual one.

Siting a rain gauge

Place the gauge on level ground in an open spot, well away from trees, walls and buildings that shelter it from rain or splash water into it. Keep the rim level and the funnel clean. Tell us about your site and the records you need, and we will suggest the gauge and accessories that fit.