R. M. YOUNG COMPANY
2801 Aero Park Drive , Traverse City, Michigan 49686 USA
TEL (231) 946-3980 FAX (231) 946-4772
MODEL 52202 / 52202H / 52203
TIPPING BUCKET RAIN GAUGE
INSTRUCTION SHEET 52202-90
REV K042417
INTRODUCTION
The YOUNG Model 52202 / 52203 Tipping Bucket Rain Gauge meets
the specifications of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
Extensive use of molded thermoplastic components gives maximum
performance and resistance to corrosion. Model 52202 is heated for
year-round use, Model 52203 is unheated for use in temperate climates.
LOCATION OF RAIN GAUGE
Precipitation measurement is greatly affected by location of the rain
gauge. Select a location that is naturally protected from gusts and
crosswinds. Avoid a site prone to contamination from debris such as
falling leaves, dirt, etc...
INSTALLATION
The Model 52202 / 52203 is fully calibrated at the factory. The movable
bucket is retained to prevent damage during shipment. On installation,
the following procedure should be followed.
1. Loosen 3 screws that retain housing to base assembly.
Carefully lift housing free of base.
2. Remove shipping retainer from bucket. Verify that bucket tips
freely. Care should be taken not to move the calibrating thumb
wheels.
3. Attach sensor wires and heater wires (when used) to terminals as
shown in wiring diagram.
4. Adjust leveling screws until bulls eye level is centered.
5. Replace housing. If heated, heater wires (gray) must be attached to
terminals C & D before housing is fully engaged. Retighten screws.
MAINTENANCE
The rain gauge should be inspected periodically. Accumulated dirt and
debris should be cleaned from funnel, screen and bucket assembly.
Electrical connections should be inspected and cleaned. Leveling screws
may be readjusted at this time. Periodic recalibration may be desirable
to ensure measurement accuracy.
CALIBRATION
To check or recalibrate the rain gauge, Model 52260 Rain Gauge
Calibrator will simplify the process. If a calibration device is not available,
the following steps will yield satisfactory results:
1. With the rain gauge properly leveled, slowly pour a measured
volume of water into the collection funnel. The rate should
not exceed 10 ml per minute which is approximately 1 inch per
hour. The bucket should tip 5 times for each 10 ml of water. For
example, 100 ml should give a count of 50 ±1. Bucket tips may be
counted manually or with a counter connected to the rain gauge
terminals.
2. If the count shows an error of more than 2%, adjust the
calibrating screws to correct the error. Raise the screws
if the count is low, lower the screws if the count is high.
Always adjust both thumb wheels equally
.
SPECIFICATIONS
Catchment Area:
200
Resolution:
0.1 mm per tip
Accuracy:
2 % up to 25 mm / hr,
3% up to 50 mm/hr
Output:
Magnetic reed switch,
normally open
Contact Rating:
24V AC / DC 400 mA MAX
Operating Temp:
-20°C to + 50°C (heated)
Power:
18 Watts @ 24 VAC for heater only
Heater Thermostat Set Point:
10°C ± 3°C
Mounting:
Standard 1 Inch Pipe Size,
Ø 34mm (1.34")
Power Supplies for
Heated Models
16 cm
6.3 in
18.5 cm
7.3 in
30 cm
12 in
9 cm
3.5 in
SIZE 34mm (1.34") DIAMETER
MOUNTING:
STANDARD 1 INCH IRON PIPE
CALIBRATING
THUMB WHEEL