Benchmarking laboratory observation uncertainty for in-pipe storm sewer discharge measurements

- Uncertainty benchmarked for storm sewer flow sensors using an experimental flume.
- Laboratory uncertainty applied to field observations.
- Uncertainty constitutes 13-256% of discharge, 58-99% of mean daily flow estimates.
- Uncertainty bounds for peak flow 13-48%; volume 31-84% of estimate for 9 storm events.

SummaryThe uncertainty associated with discharge measurement in storm sewer systems is of fundamental importance for hydrologic/hydraulic model calibration and pollutant load estimation, although it is difficult to determine as field benchmarks are generally impractical. This study benchmarks discharge uncertainty in several commonly used sensors by laboratory flume testing with and without a woody debris model. The sensors are then installed in a field location where laboratory benchmarked uncertainty is applied to field measurements. Combined depth and velocity uncertainty from the laboratory ranged from ±0.207-0.710 in., and ±0.176-0.631 fps respectively, and when propagated and applied to discharge estimation in the field, resulted in field discharge uncertainties of between 13% and 256% of the observation. Average daily volume calculation based on these observations had uncertainties of between 58% and 99% of the estimated value, and the uncertainty bounds of storm flow volume and peak flow for nine storm events constituted between 31-84%, and 13-48% of the estimated value respectively. Subsequently, the implications of these observational uncertainties for stormwater best-management practice evaluation, hydrologic modeling, and Total Maximum Daily Load development are considered.