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Design and operation of a rainfall simulator for field studies of runoff and soil erosion

Abstract

[Abstract] The present paper describes the design, construction, calibration and operation of a spray rainfall simulator . The design of the plots used for the purpose of this study is also described in order to determine hydrological and erosion parameters. Selected rainfall intensity of 64 mm h- 1 are representative of heavy storm conditions in Galicia. Drop size distribution results in these conditions , a D5 0of 1.2 mm, were similar to those calculated for natural rainfall by BUBENZER (1979). Fall velocities reached were between 75 and 100% terminal velocity, depending on drop diameter and 13.05 Jm- 2m m- 1kinetic energy was obtained Surface area of the plots used was 1 m2, surronded by a metal structure connected to a V-shaped system to collect the surface runoff and sediment produced in the different experiments

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