Introduction Current meters are velocity measuring devices that sample at a point. Each point velocity measurement is then assigned to a meaningful part of the entire cross section passing flow. Total discharge is determined by summation of partial discharges.
Data are usually determined over a useful range of total discharges.
These discharges are related to measured water surface elevations related to a fixed head measuring device to provide a rating curve. After full confidence in the rating is attained, the calibrated head measurement device and cross section may be used as a gaging station.