Comparison of velocity and turbulence profiles obtained with a Vectrino Profiler and PIV

Abstract

Laboratory experiments were carried out in a small openchannel hydraulic flume at the Université de Sherbrooke. A PIV and an acoustic Doppler velocity profiler (Vectrino II (VII)) were used to measure high frequency velocities in profiles along the centreline of a small openchannel flume. Two background turbulence levels were tested. Comparisons were made of mean and turbulent statistics obtained with the two measurement techniques. The results show reasonable agreement between mean streamwise and lateral velocities measured with the PIV and VII near the “sweet spot” of the VII. In contrast, mean vertical velocities deviate substantially between the two measurement methods. Turbulence statistics have somewhat similar profile shapes, yet significant bias is observed between the two measurement methods.