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.
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.
Measuring rod length | 500mm |
Range | 0~100kg |
Accuracy | ±0.2% Full Scale ±1 digit |
Measurement Unit | Kgf(gf)/lbf/N selectable |
Display | 5-digit LCD display—Device—Mode —Overload LED LCD display—Comparison LED LCD display (reversible)—Battery |
Sampling rate | 1000 times/second |
Display update | 10 times <,> 15 times |
Overload Capacity | 120% full scale (LCD, LED flashing, and buzzer sound) |
A/D Converter | 16-bit signal |
Microprocessor | 8-bit high-performance microprocessor |
Battery operating time | Fully charged, can be used continuously for approximately 10 hours |
Charging time | Approximately 8 hours |
Operating temperature | 0~40℃℃ |
Operating humidity range | 20% to 80% RH relative humidity |
Power supply | Internal NIMI rechargeable battery, AC adapter |
Output | USB |
Analog (-2 to +2V) | |
Comparison signal (-NG, OK, +NG), open collector MAX 30V 10mA | |
Overload alarm output (OVL), open collector MAX 30V 10mA | |
Peak hold | Compactness value |
Comparison function | Programmable coded high/ low set points |
Storage function | 999 measurement values |
Display flip function | Measurement values and measurement units |
Alarm | Overload and +NG (off/on selectable) |
Other functions | Auto zero (1 second–60 seconds setting) |
Damping mode (4 horizontal settings) | |
Key sound can be turned off or on | |
Automatic power-off function | 1 minute–60 minutes selectable |
External connection switch | Display hold, zero, and peak/ tracking selection |
Calibration | Can be calibrated manually to adapt to environmental changes |
Gravitational acceleration | Gravitational acceleration can be adjusted |
Dimensions and weight | Length 220.5 × width 78 × height 32.3 mm, approximately 520g |