Campbell Scientific's fully integrated Open Path Eddy Covariance System (OPEC) measures CO2, water vapour, and sensible heat fluxes using the eddy covariance technique.

Measurements for CO2 flux, latent heat flux, sonic sensible heat, momentum flux, computed sensible heat flux, temperature, humidity, horizontal wind speed and direction are all possible using this system.

A standard system would typically include:

• Campbell Scientific Irgason (integrated IR open path gas analyser and 3D sonic anemometer)....more

• CSAT3A Sonic Anemometer for wind speed and direction in 3 dimensions and sonic temperature*....more
• EC150 Open Path Gas Analyser, streamlined design to minimise disruption to air flow*.....more

Plus:

• Campbell Scientific Data logger, the CR3000 is the recommended logger in most situations....more
• KH20 Krypton Hygrometer (optional) for measuring fluctuations in atmospheric water vapour.... more
• FW05 Fine Wire Thermocouple (optional), for highly accurate and fast temperature readings

Additional energy balance sensors such as soil heat flux, soil moisture or net radiation can be added to the system to extend the measurement capabilities. In many circumstances a system can be solar powered, ideal for remote field studies (64 watt solar panel minimum).

Simple systems can be built around a CR1000 data logger but more typically the faster CR3000 data logger is used which allows for 20Hz sampling rates, where additional sensors are to be added or multiple systems are to be measured then the CR5000 should be considered. 

*The CSAT3A and EC150 connect together to optimise the co-location of the gas and turbulence measurement volumes and to minimise air flow disruption, further enhanced by the aerodynamic low profile of the analyser. A shared electronics box lower system power and reduces system complexity and simplifies installation. 

Eddy covariance programs for Campbell Scientific data logger are also available with or without energy balance outputs.

Towers, tripods and fixing brackets will also be required but can be supplied by us if preferred.

Due to the technical nature of this equipment we recommend contacting one of our EC specialists at the earliest opportunity for advice on the best system for your situation.