Anemometer: Gauging Wind Speed and Force
by Yuvi K - December 17, 2023
Anemometer – An Overview
An anemometer is an instrument for measuring and monitoring wind speed and force directions. It consists of a set of blades or cups, placed together in a cylindrical shape. This is attached to a spindle which is linked to a gauge to measure the speed of the wind. Anemometers are used in various fields such as meteorology, aviation, weather forecasting, and navigation.
Anemometers can be divided into two classes – mechanical and electronic. Mechanical anemometers are the more traditional type and are powered by the wind itself, while electronic anemometers measure air velocity electronically.
History of Anemometers
The first anemometers were developed by the Greeks more than two millennia ago and were very basic in design. These ancient instruments used rotating blades or cups attached to a vertical arm. As the wind moved the blades, they spun around in the wind, providing an indication of wind speed.
The first modern anemometer was designed by the British inventor Prof. Robert Hooke in 1667. His design had four hemispherical cups mounted on an axis at right angles to each other. The axis was then connected to a dial which indicated wind speed.
In the late 19th century, modern anemometers were developed by both French and German scientists. These improved instruments used a variety of mechanisms, including fan-shaped blades and electric coils.
How Anemometer Works?
The two main types of anemometers – mechanical and electronic – measure wind speed and force in different ways.
Mechanical Anemometers
Mechanical anemometers use blades arranged in a cylindrical shape which spin in the wind. These blades are connected to a spindle which is in turn attached to a gauge measuring the speed of the wind.
The force of the wind drives the blades of the anemometer, causing them to turn faster or slower as the wind speed increases or decreases. The gauge reads the speed of the blades and displays a reading on a dial. Mechanical anemometers are also known as rotating vane anemometers.
Electronic Anemometers
Electronic anemometers measure wind speed using electric coils. These coils are arranged in a cylindrical shape and measure the velocity of the wind by measuring the electric currents generated by the coils.
The electric currents generated by each coil are compared and the wind speed is determined from the difference in the measurements. Electronic anemometers are also known as Doppler anemometers, as their working principle is based on the Doppler effect.
Benefits of Using Anemometers
Anemometers are invaluable instruments for a variety of applications. The main benefits of using anemometers include:
- Measurement of wind speed and force
- Monitoring of wind conditions in a given area
- Analysis of wind direction
- Precise estimation of wind speed
- Forecasting of future wind conditions
- Estimation of wind power potential
- Assessment of potential renewable energy production capacity
- Analysis of air pollution levels
- Determination of wind-related risks and hazards
Applications of Anemometer
Anemometers are used in a variety of fields, from meteorology and aviation to weather forecasting and navigation. Some of the specific applications of anemometers include:
- Weather Forecasting: Anemometers are used to measure wind speed and direction, allowing weather forecasters to better predict and forecast future weather conditions.
- Aviation: Anemometers are used in aviation to measure wind speed and to alert pilots to approaching hazardous winds.
- Meteorology: Anemometers allow meteorologists to accurately measure wind speed and direction, enabling them to study the air currents in the atmosphere.
- Offshore Wind Power Production: Anemometers are used to measure wind speed and direction, as well as potential wind power production capacity. This is critical for the development of off-shore wind farms.
- Air Pollution: Anemometers are used to measure the concentration of air pollutants, and to identify sources of air pollution.
Conclusion
Anemometers are essential instruments for measuring and monitoring wind speed and direction. The two main types of anemometers – mechanical and electronic – measure wind speed and force in different ways. They are used in a variety of fields such as meteorology, aviation, weather forecasting, and navigation. Anemometers provide an accurate estimation of wind speed and direction, enabling meteorologists, pilots, and renewable energy companies to more accurately monitor and assess the impact of wind on their operations.
