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pitometer log
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pitometer log

measurement instrument
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Quick Summary

A pitometer log is an instrument used to measure a ship's speed through water. It functions similarly to a Pitot tube, which was invented by Henri Pitot in the mid-18th century.12

The instrument typically has two tubes projecting through the ship's hull. One tube faces forward to measure dynamic pressure, while the other has side openings to measure static pressure. As the ship moves, the difference in pressure between these tubes is used to calculate speed. This pressure differential is transmitted to equipment that translates it into a speed measurement, often displayed in knots.12

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  1. navigation - The Pitot tube
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