Soil Penetrometer - Soil Compaction Tester

This soil penetrometer (soil compaction tester) shows how severe compaction is and at what depth compacted zones sit within the soil profile, so remedial work can be planned on the basis of real measurements.

Compaction is among the most frequent and most damaging problems found in sports turf. Play combined with the machinery needed for maintenance presses soil particles together. Clay and silty soils, which hold a high share of fine particles, are especially susceptible, although any soil can become compacted.

A healthy soil contains both large and small pore spaces that hold air and water and give roots and soil organisms room to breathe, grow and reproduce. These spaces are dynamic, letting air and water move through them, which ideally results in a well-drained, biologically active soil and a good playing surface. When soil is compacted these pores shrink or disappear, restricting the air, water and space available to roots and soil life. The outcome is poorer plant and soil health and saturated, poorly draining ground that gives an inadequate playing surface. Compaction can also reduce how efficiently applied fertilisers and chemicals are taken up.

Key Features

• Accurate measurement: precise gauge indicator for detecting compaction
• Depth analysis: identifies where compacted layers begin
• Professional design: built for regular testing
• Clear readings: easy-to-read gauge movement
• Complete kit: supplied with a full instruction sheet

How It Works

• 0-500 lbs pressure scale split into three indicator sections: Good, Fair and Poor
• Colour-coded traffic light scale for easy reading
• Graduated depth probe for straightforward identification of compacted zones

Applications

• Professional soil compaction testing of sports turf and other soils
• Assessing the severity and depth of compacted zones to guide remedial strategies

Specifications

• Pressure scale: 0-500 lbs
• Indicator sections: Good, Fair, Poor (traffic light colour coding)
• Probe: graduated depth probe
• Assembly: ready to use straight out of the box

What's Included

• Soil penetrometer
• Full user instruction sheet

Notes

• Maintenance: clean after every use, inspect the gauge regularly and store in dry conditions.
• Safety: standard handling precautions apply.