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Stationary Electro magnetic Current Meter
Stationary Electro magnetic Current Meter

Stationary Electro magnetic Current Meter

Manufacturer
Date1984
Object number00056052
NameMeter
MediumMetal
DimensionsEstimated acquisition size: 165 × 1051 mm
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection Gift from University of Sydney
Collections
DescriptionCurrent meters (or flowmeters) are a type of sensor that can use different mechanisms to measure the flow of seawater passing by it. This current meter uses electromagnetism to measure the flow of seawater as stated by Faraday’s Law of Induction. Inside the meter, a magnetic field is produced about the electromagnetic coil. Since seawater is ionised, electric potential is generated as currents pass through the magnetic field. The voltage of this electric potential (the current) is captured by the electrodes. This measurement becomes usable data about the currents occurring in the area where the meter has been positioned.SignificanceThe original current meter equivalent started as throwing a buoyant object overboard and timing how long it takes to drift back to the side of a ship. Today there are different versions of mechanisms that power meters including electromagnetic, acoustic and optical sensors. Current meters create quanitifiable data to observe and measure the ocean that can be used in a multitude of applications.

Measuring ocean currents allows predictions to be made of sediment transport which heavily affects the composition of coastlines. Current velocity can be used to estimate how far onshore and offshore contaminants can travel. This is useful to understand the potential lifecycle of runoff pollutants from coastal developments or in cases of offshore contamination like an oil spill. Ocean current transport and mixing processes occur across the globe affecting the temperature and salinity of travelling waters. Wave conditions can also be reported by having a current meter in place.