Instructions for the Penetrometer: New TUdi video

Used across various fields such as soil science and agriculture, agronomy and forestry, and engineering and construction, penetrometers help to measure the strength of different materials. 

In soil science, the penetrometer can asses soil compaction by measuring the penetration resistance of the soil, help understand soil structure and provide data that can inform soil management strategies. By understanding soil compaction levels, scientists and farmers can take informed actions to improve soil structure, promote better plant growth, and develop strategies for healthier crops and more sustainable farming practices. 

In TUdi’s new video, Gunther Carl Liebhard (BOKU Vienna) introduces the penetrometer and gives instructions for measuring the soil penetration resistance across the soil profile, thus getting information about the soil compaction status. 

He goes through the different steps of the process, such as finding a representative spot in the field, and making sure the conditions are good for measuring. This means that the soil should be moist and close to field capacity - not too wet but also not too dry. 

Once the metal plate is placed in a representative spot as a reference the penetrometer is positioned in the centre of the plate, and the cone is pushed into the soil until its top is level with the plate. The relevant field information, like location and ploughing depth, is entered into an app. 

After setting the falling height, the hammer weight is lifted and allowed to fall, driving the cone into the soil. The depth of penetration is measured using marks on the penetrometer frame and a sliding ruler. Multiple measurements are taken until the desired depth is reached, with adjustments made to the falling height if the soil is very compacted. 

Watch the full video below!