Cup & Vane Wind Sensor

Cup & Vane Wind Sensors are traditional mechanical instruments used for measuring wind speed and direction. These sensors typically consist of a three-cup anemometer to capture wind speed and a tail vane to determine wind direction. Known for their simplicity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, cup and vane sensors are widely used in meteorological stations, environmental monitoring, agricultural weather stations, and industrial sites.

  • Proven mechanical design for stable and consistent performance

  • Low power requirements, ideal for remote or solar-powered installations

  • Durable construction suitable for harsh outdoor environments

  • Easy installation and maintenance


Typical Applications

  • Meteorological observation

  • Renewable energy monitoring (e.g., wind farms)

  • Air quality and environmental monitoring systems

  • Smart agriculture and irrigation control

We offer reliable anemometers, wind speed & direction sensors, and ultrasonic wind sensors. As a professional weather instrument manufacturer, we welcome you to visit our website for more information.

What is a wind speed sensor?

Wind speed sensors serve the same function as anemometers—they are primarily used to measure wind speed. Their operating principles are based on how wind interacts with physical objects. For instance, three-cup and vane (fan-type) anemometers determine wind speed by capturing the wind’s force on rotating elements. These devices provide consistent wind speed data. In contrast, thermal (hot-wire or hot-film) anemometers measure changes in temperature or electrical resistance caused by airflow cooling a heated element.

Under normal environmental conditions, our wind speed sensor has a service life of 5 to 8 years, with a standard warranty period of 2 years.

 

FeaturePolycarbonate Wind SensorAluminum Wind Sensor
Material StrengthStrong, impact-resistant plasticHigh mechanical strength and rigidity
WeightLightweightHeavier
Corrosion ResistanceExcellent (non-metallic)Good, but depends on coating (e.g., anodized or powder-coated)
UV ResistanceGood with UV-stabilized polycarbonateExcellent
Temperature ToleranceModerate (-40°C to +85°C typical)High (can withstand harsh environments)
CostMore affordableMore expensive
Durability in Harsh WeatherGood for general useIdeal for extreme or long-term outdoor use
Appearance/FinishMatte or translucentMetallic, professional look
التطبيقاتAgriculture, indoor, light-duty outdoorIndustrial, marine, high-altitude, wind energy
Best for…Choose
Budget, simplicityMechanical
Accuracy, reliability, no maintenanceUltrasonic
Cold or icy conditionsUltrasonic (no freeze risk)
Long-term or mission-critical dataUltrasonic
Educational/demo useMechanical

When choosing between a mechanical anemometer and an ultrasonic anemometer, it’s important to consider the application environment, accuracy requirements, and maintenance expectations. Mechanical anemometers, which use rotating cups or vanes to measure wind speed and direction, are cost-effective and simple to install, making them ideal for general-purpose weather monitoring, agricultural use, or educational projects. However, they contain moving parts that are prone to wear and may require regular maintenance, especially in harsh or dusty environments. In contrast, ultrasonic anemometers have no moving parts and use sound waves to detect wind speed and direction with high precision and responsiveness. They offer excellent durability in extreme conditions, require minimal maintenance, and provide rich digital outputs suitable for industrial, marine, or research applications. While ultrasonic models are more expensive, their long-term reliability and accuracy often justify the investment for critical or long-term installations.

 
 

أجهزة استشعار OEM مخصصة

نحن ندعم التخصيص المجاني وفقًا لتطبيقك.

Related Article

احصل على اتصال!