How Does a Stevenson Screen Work?

How Does a Stevenson Screen Work?
A Stevenson screen or instrument shelter is an enclosure to shield meteorological instruments against precipitation and direct heat radiation from outside sources, while still allowing air to circulate freely around them. It forms part of a standard weather station.

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Subsequently, one may also ask, why does the Stevenson screen have louvered sides?

Stevenson screens are always painted white to better reflect the sun's rays. The louvered sides allow outside air to flow around the thermometers. Stevenson screens are always installed so that the door opens facing north, to keep the sun from shining directly on the thermometers and affecting the readings.

Secondly, where should a Stevenson screen be sited? The stand of the Stevenson screen should be set in the ground so that the bulbs of the thermometers are at approximately 1.2m (120cm) above the ground.

Considering this, why is it important to use a Stevenson screen?

Stevenson screens may also be known as a cotton region shelter, an instrument shelter, a thermometer shelter, a thermoscreen, or a thermometer screen. Its purpose is to provide a standardised environment in which to measure temperature, humidity, dewpoint, and atmospheric pressure.

What are the characteristics of a Stevenson screen?

Important Features of a Stevenson Screen:

  • It is made up of wood: i.e. to prevent absorption and conduction of heat.
  • Panted white or silver grey;- In order to reflect sunshine.
  • Stands are 1 metre high:- to avoid the influence of ground conditions.
Related Question Answers

Where should Stevenson screens be placed?

The door of the screen should always face away from the sun. This means that in the northern hemisphere it should face north. The screen has slats to allow air to circulate freely around the instruments. In the open: The Stevenson screen should not only be away from buildings, but also trees, hills, etc.

Why is Stevenson screen raised above the ground?

The louvered sides of the Stevenson Screen allows air to circulate through the box and prevents the temperature readings to be abnormally high. The Stevenson Screen is elevated at least 1.5m above the ground so that the instruments are not affected by the heat from the ground.
Maya Lin-Takahashi
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Maya Lin-Takahashi

Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.