Soil hardness meter

Soil hardness meter

  • Product Number:LD-JSD-1
  • Product Difference:Predict soil bearing capacity, tillability, and root system expansion resistance with simple, one-click operation

Product Introduction

Soil compaction, also known as soil hardness, soil firmness, or soil penetration resistance, is typically measured by the resistance encountered when a metal plunger or probe is pressed into the soil (units: kgf/cm²). Soil compaction refers to the soil's ability to resist compaction and fragmentation under external forces, and is one aspect of soil properties. Additionally, soil physical properties include soil texture, structure, porosity, etc., which relate to soil firmness, plasticity, permeability, drainage, water retention capacity, and the ease of root penetration.

Soil compaction is composed of soil shear strength, compressive strength, and friction strength, among others. It serves as a composite indicator of soil strength. When a metal plunger or probe is pressed into the soil, two methods are used: dynamic loading and static loading. The measured values differ between the two methods but are related. The shape of the plunger can be conical, flat-headed, spherical, or wedge-shaped, and these shapes also affect the measured values. For the same method, the measured values are primarily determined by soil texture, bulk density, and moisture content, with moisture content having the greatest influence.

Soil hardness meters can predict soil bearing capacity, tillability, and resistance to root growth. The degree of soil compaction affects crop root penetration and growth, making it an important soil physical property indicator used to evaluate soil tillability. Compacted soil can prevent water infiltration, reduce fertilizer utilization, impair plant root growth, and lead to reduced crop yields.

Product Features

  • Smart digital display measurement: LED LCD display with blue backlight mode, making data reading clear at a glance, even in low-light environments.

  • Real-time mode/peak mode automatic switching.

  • Multi-function button: three units can be switched freely with a single button (Newton N, kilogram KGF, pound LBF).

  • Multi-functional measurement: Bidirectional testing for user convenience, with an LED yellow light during operation.

  • Reversible display screen: Convenient for density measurement, viewable from both front and back.

  • Fast and precise response: Equipped with an 8-bit high-performance microprocessor, achieving second-level measurement response, fast data refresh, and strong stability.

  • Large data storage capacity: Supports storage of 999 sets of measurement values, allowing easy access to historical data for continuous field monitoring.

  • Long battery life: Built-in high-capacity battery enables continuous operation for 10 hours, meeting all-day field testing requirements.

  • User-friendly operation: Ergonomic design for comfortable one-handed grip and simple one-button operation.

Product parameters

Measuring rod length500mm
Range0~100kg
Accuracy±0.2% Full Scale ±1 digit
Measurement UnitKgf(gf)/lbf/N selectable
Display5-digit LCD display—Device—Mode —Overload LED LCD display—Comparison LED LCD display (reversible)—Battery
Sampling rate1000 times/second
Display update10 times <,> 15 times
Overload Capacity120% full scale (LCD, LED flashing, and buzzer sound)
A/D Converter16-bit signal
Microprocessor8-bit high-performance microprocessor
Battery operating timeFully charged, can be used continuously for approximately 10 hours
Charging timeApproximately 8 hours
Operating temperature0~40℃℃
Operating humidity range20% to 80% RH relative humidity
Power supplyInternal NIMI rechargeable battery, AC adapter
OutputUSB
Analog (-2 to +2V)
Comparison signal (-NG, OK, +NG), open collector MAX 30V 10mA
Overload alarm output (OVL), open collector MAX 30V 10mA
Peak holdCompactness value
Comparison functionProgrammable coded high/ low set points
Storage function999 measurement values
Display flip functionMeasurement values and measurement units
AlarmOverload and +NG (off/on selectable)
Other functionsAuto zero (1 second–60 seconds setting)
Damping mode (4 horizontal settings)
Key sound can be turned off or on
Automatic power-off function1 minute–60 minutes selectable
External connection switchDisplay hold, zero, and peak/ tracking selection
CalibrationCan be calibrated manually to adapt to environmental changes
Gravitational accelerationGravitational acceleration can be adjusted
Dimensions and weightLength 220.5 × width 78 × height 32.3 mm, approximately 520g
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