Experimental mass-flux measurements: a comparison of different gauges with estimated theoretical data

Abstract

In experimental snowdrifting mass-flux measurements many different instruments have been tested (Takeuchi, CEMAGREE Mases, etc.). Very often the results obtained are a function of the gauge used. However, in order to compare data from different instruments, orders of magnitude have to be similar.Since 1992, snowdrifting has been studied at an experimental plot at La Molina ski resort (eastern Spanish Pyrenees). The alpine site, characterized by a plateau topography, is located at 2250 m.In this paper, different gauges used to measure snowdrifting mass flux at this site are presented: one snow-collector column and two types of snow traps. Snow-collector columns (prismatic boxes) are permanent installations and are used to measure the mass-flux episode. Snow traps (Takeuchi, 1980: modified) are lighter and more mobile, and they are used for short experiments during a wind episode during which mass-flux data are obtained.The three different gauges are compared and the rate of trapping efficiency is suggested from a comparison of the field data with estimated mass-flux data deduced from empirical formulae (Mellor and Fellers, 1986; Naaim-Bouvet and others, 1996). The mass-flux values obtained at the experimental site are lower than the estimated values.