As part of a large-scale modernization project, hydrological measurement stations in Russia are being equipped with precise STS level sensors – for more reliable weather warnings and better protection of the population.
Extreme weather conditions such as the drought of 2010 or the flood of 2013 caused massive damage in Russia. The Hydrometeorological Services Modernization Project-II aims to help recognize such risks early and communicate them more effectively – through comprehensive modernization of the hydrological measurement network.
Over 139 million USD are invested in new information systems, automatic data transmission, and high-performance sensors. The goal is to strengthen population protection and advance climate change research.
Hydrological Monitoring in Russia's Permafrost Zones
Special attention was given to the rivers Lena, Jana, Indigirka, Vilui, and Kolyma – partly remote and difficult to access. Here, high-precision, low-maintenance technology from STS is used.
Together with the partner company Poltraf CIS Co. Ltd., over 40 hydrological measurement stations were equipped with digital STS sensors. These monitor water level, water temperature, and sometimes also precipitation and snow conditions around the clock – even under extreme environmental conditions.
Modern Sensors for Precise and Robust Data Collection
Among others, the Modbus Level Sensor DTM.OCS.S/N/RS485 is used. It measures water level and temperature in a compact, robust device with high long-term stability. Ambient temperatures range from -40 °C to +80 °C – ideal for use in permafrost regions.
Key requirements for the measurement solution:
- Maintenance-free long-term use in remote areas
- Measurement of water level, temperature, precipitation, snow, and ice formation
- Automatic data transmission via GPS or satellite
- Alarm function for threshold breaches
- User-friendly software with visualization, analysis, and database
Advantages of the deployed STS Level Sensors
- Digital level sensor with Modbus RS485 – easy to integrate
- Electronically temperature-compensated for maximum accuracy across the entire range
- Long-term stability < 0.1 % per year
- Precision: ≤ ± 0.03 % FS
- Temperature range: -40…+80 °C
- Modular design for individual customization
- Simple setting of zero point & measurement range via Modbus
Conclusion
With reliable sensors, STS makes an important contribution to climate research and disaster prevention in Russia. The combination of precision, durability, and easy integration makes STS measurement technology the ideal choice for large-scale monitoring projects under extreme conditions.
