Abstract

The sonic anemometer is based on the transmission of acoustical waves traveling in opposite direction over a welldefined path, and the determination of the resulting phase between the two waves caused by the wind velocity parallel to the path. The instrument was developed for the purpose of obtainIng very low wind velocities (in the order of 1 em/sec) in an environment of extreme temperature, moisture, and pressure (120°C, saturated steam, and 70 psi). The anemometer has excellent sensitivity and performance over the desired velocity range under normal atmospheric conditions. The instrument, after calibration in the wind tunnel, was subjected to high temperatures, pressures, and steam. The results of the pressure chamber tests on the array indicate that degradation of the received amplitude signal occurs progressively with the increase in temperature, pressure, and moisture. The de resistances across the terminals of the transducers decreased considerably, and indicate that insulation is still a major problem. The effects of temperature on the array show that it is responsible for part of the signal attenuation. The results of these tests indicate the anemometer with the same transducers is capable, under atmospheric conditions, of operating to approximately 100°C. In the pressure chamber and steam environmentmore » with the present transducers, the anemometer is capable of operating to approximately 70°C. More comprehensive environmental tests will have to be performed to evaluate the factors contributing to the degradation of the signal amplitudes of the transducers. Insulation breakdown seems to be the major problem, and if this can be solved, the anemometer should be capable of operation in the extreme environment.« less

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