Understanding the intricate processes of the water cycle presents a fundamental challenge in environmental science and civil engineering. The Hydrology and Rainfall Apparatus from TecQuipment deconstructs this complexity into a clear, observable system. It is a self-contained, bench-top unit that provides a small-scale simulation of a hydrological catchment area. Designed for engineering and environmental science students, this apparatus allows for the direct observation of rainfall, runoff, infiltration, and groundwater flow. By creating a controlled environment, it strips away the overwhelming variables of a natural system, enabling students to focus on the core principles. It transforms abstract theories from textbooks into tangible phenomena, providing a foundational understanding of how water interacts with the land.
Using this apparatus, students develop essential skills in hydrological analysis and environmental modeling. The primary application is the hands-on study of the rainfall-runoff relationship within a defined catchment area. Students learn to generate and interpret hydrographs, which are fundamental tools in water resource management and flood prediction. They gain practical experience in measuring infiltration rates into different permeable media and observing the formation of a groundwater table. Further experiments include analyzing the effects of storm duration and intensity on runoff volume and peak flow, understanding groundwater abstraction from wells, and visualizing the movement of water through the ground. These applications provide a solid, practical foundation for advanced studies in hydrology, water engineering, and environmental management.
| Specification/Feature | Details |
| Product Dimensions | Nett: 1950 mm x 800 mm x 1500 mm |
| Product Weight | Nett: 120 kg (without sand or water) |
| Applicable Education Levels | University, College, Higher Education |
| Apparatus Type | Self-contained, mobile hydrology model |
| Catchment Area | Large stainless steel tank (2 metres long) |
| Media | Includes two grades of sand for permeable media simulation |
| Rainfall Simulation | Overhead sprinkler system with adjustable pressure regulator |
| Flow Control | Valve for precise control of rainfall intensity |
| Runoff Measurement | Weir and flowmeter at the tank outlet to measure surface runoff |
| Groundwater Wells | Two wells for demonstrating groundwater abstraction |
| Piezometers | Multiple tapping points to measure groundwater levels |
| Reservoir | Sump tank with a pump to store and recirculate water |
| Instrumentation | Includes measuring cylinder and stopwatch for flow rate calculations |
| Construction | Robust steel frame with locking castors for mobility |
| Standard Inclusions | Liners to simulate impermeable surfaces (e.g., roads, buildings) |
| Experiments Possible | Investigation of rainfall/runoff relationships, hydrograph generation, infiltration studies, groundwater flow visualization, and well abstraction effects. |
Aidex is proud to supply the Hydrology and Rainfall Apparatus to learning institutions across the Midwest. We are committed to equipping educators and students in the region with the industry-leading tools they need to succeed.
The curriculum focuses on fundamental principles of the hydrologic cycle. Key topics include rainfall simulation, surface and sub-surface runoff, infiltration and percolation, hydrograph generation for different storm conditions, and the study of groundwater flow, including water table formation and the effects of well abstraction.
This apparatus is designed for undergraduate students in higher education programs. It is primarily intended for those studying civil engineering, environmental engineering, environmental science, and physical geography.
The apparatus uses an overhead sprinkler system connected to a pump and a control valve. By adjusting the valve, users can precisely regulate the water pressure and flow rate, allowing for the simulation of various rainfall intensities, from light drizzles to heavy storm events.
Yes. The standard setup uses permeable sand to model rural or natural catchment areas. To simulate urban environments, students can place the included impermeable liners on the surface to represent non-porous areas like roads, parking lots, or buildings, allowing for direct comparison of runoff characteristics.
Students can collect several key data points, including the rainfall rate, the flow rate of surface runoff over time (to create a hydrograph), and changes in groundwater levels at various points in the catchment area using the piezometer tappings.
For more information or to contact Aidex, your Authorized Reseller, call 800-251-9935 or email info@aidex.com.
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