ASTM D4409-95 (2014) PDF

Full title and description

ASTM D4409-95 (Reapproved 2014) — Standard Test Method for Velocity Measurements of Water in Open Channels with Rotating Element Current Meters. The document describes the design, calibration considerations, and field use of rotating-element current meters (cup-type, vane-type, and propeller-type) for determination of point velocities as part of velocity–area discharge measurements in open channels.

Abstract

This short test method provides procedures and guidance for selecting and using rotating-element current meters to measure water velocity at points within open-channel cross sections. It covers instrument types (vertical-axis cup or vane meters and horizontal-axis propeller meters), typical mounting and traverse techniques, and the intended application together with related measurement practices (for example, use in velocity–area traverses). The standard was reapproved in 2014 and later withdrawn in 2023.

General information

• Status: Withdrawn (withdrawal recorded January 2023).
• Publication date: Designation D4409 − 95; reapproved 2014 (printed/issued 2014 edition).
• Publisher: ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials).
• ICS / categories: 17.120.10 — Flow in closed conduits / open-channel flow measurement.
• Edition / version: D4409-95 (Reapproved 2014).
• Number of pages: Approximately 5 pages (short test method).

Scope

This test method describes the design and use of cup-type or vane-type vertical-axis current meters and propeller-type horizontal-axis current meters for measuring water velocities in open channels. It is intended primarily for open-channel hydraulic applications with an operator in attendance and for current meters that measure one component or filament of flow. The method provides guidance for using these meters as part of velocity–area traverses to determine discharge.

Key topics and requirements

• Types of rotating-element current meters covered: cup-type, vane-type (vertical axis), and propeller-type (horizontal axis).
• Use of point-velocity measurements in velocity–area traverses for open-channel discharge computations.
• Guidance on meter deployment, positioning, and operator-attended measurement techniques.
• Reference to related test methods and practices (to be used in conjunction with complementary standards for full discharge measurement procedures).
• Units: primary values given in inch–pound units with SI conversions for information only.

Typical use and users

Practitioners who commonly used this standard included hydrologists, river and stream gauging technicians, water-resource engineers, environmental consultants, and researchers performing open-channel discharge measurements. Typical applications were gauging flow in rivers, natural streams, irrigation channels, flumes and man-made open conduits where rotating-element current meters are appropriate. The method was used in the field as part of velocity–area discharge determinations and for training/standardizing operator procedures.

Related standards

Commonly referenced or related standards/guides include Test Method D3858 (velocity–area flow measurement practice), other D19 committee standards on open-channel flow (including standards for electromagnetic current meters and indirect methods). Several of these D19 open-channel standards were reviewed and withdrawn at the same time in the committee maintenance action in 2023. Users should consult current ASTM committee listings for active replacements or updated guidance.

Keywords

open-channel flow, current meter, rotating-element, propeller meter, cup meter, vane meter, velocity–area traverse, discharge measurement, hydrometry, gauging

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D4409-95 (Reapproved 2014) is a short ASTM test method that defined procedures for velocity measurements of water in open channels using rotating-element current meters (cup, vane, and propeller types).

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers meter types, basic deployment and measurement techniques for obtaining point velocities in open-channel cross sections, and guidance for use of these point velocities within velocity–area traverses to compute discharge. It is not a full hydraulic textbook but a field-oriented test method.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Hydrologists, field gauging technicians, water-resource engineers, environmental consultants, and researchers measuring flow in rivers, streams, canals, and flumes.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: This designation (D4409-95(2014)) was withdrawn in January 2023; the ASTM record lists it as withdrawn and indicates it had no direct replacement at the time of withdrawal. Users should consult ASTM or relevant national/regional authorities for current recommended practices or replacement standards.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It belonged to the ASTM D19 committee portfolio of open-channel and water-flow measurement standards and was intended to be used in conjunction with other D19 test methods (for example, velocity–area methods and electromagnetic current meter methods). Several related D19 standards were subject to coordinated review/withdrawal actions.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Open-channel flow, rotating-element current meter, velocity measurement, velocity–area, discharge measurement, hydrometry, propeller meter, cup meter, vane meter.