How to Minimize Temperature Errors in Tiltmeters

When dealing with a warm environment, try to choose a shady spot to install your sensor. Underground is a great option if your application allows for it. If your sensor must be installed in a location that is exposed to direct sunlight, don’t worry. You can set up a hood or a canopy to protect it from the sun’s rays.

Dark colors absorb heat. When choosing an instrument, be sure to select a light-colored one to help ensure your sensor stays cool if your environment is warm.

Before you even select a tiltmeter, you need to know the level of accuracy your project requires. You’ll want to check the temperature coefficients on the datasheets for the products you’re considering. With that info in hand, you can calculate potential errors caused by temperature before deciding.

Your tiltmeter should be compact, stiff, and stable. Sensors with these features are less likely to bend or vibrate than designs with elongated beams with fixed ends. If the sensor you’re considering has mechanical linkages between the internal sensor and the outer enclosure, you may want to think twice.