Penetrometers

A penetrometer is a simple tool with which to gauge the structure of soil by measuring the degree of soil compaction at depths. Penetrometers measure relative soil airiness providing an indication of how much oxygen is available for soil microbial life.

• Monitor highly compacted soils and measure the improvements as farming practices are modified
• Alter tillage techniques and timing to see when relative improvement occurs
• Use larger rods and larger diameter probe tips to test compost during early stages when aeration is so important

We have two models available to suit your needs and budget. The first is a simple hydraulic gauge penetrometer with stainless steel rod. The second is a computerized recording penetrometer developed by Pike Agri-Lab Supplies. The RP-4 is a light-weight, simple-to-use device capable of storing up to 400 penetration profiles in it’s on-board memory. The traces may be immediately printed with an optional printer (pictured) attached to the front of the RP-4, or they may be offloaded to an IBM-compatible computer for detailed analysis and archiving, using Microsoft Excel® and add-in software included with the RP-4.

Agricultural consultants will find this package especially useful. Using a laptop computer and GPS receiver, detailed comparative charts can be created to track the effects of modified tilling practices. And with a data- capable cellular telephone, current results can be compared with those stored on the office computer.