Product Description
Soil Tensiometer
The Soil Tensiometer is a simple, robust, and cost-effective device used to directly measure soil water tension, enabling accurate monitoring of soil moisture levels. Essential for agronomy, irrigation management, and research applications, this tensiometer helps users understand plant water availability and optimize irrigation practices.
Key Features
- Direct Soil Moisture Measurement: Provides a real-time reading of soil suction, indicating how tightly water is held in the soil and how available it is to plants.
- Modular Design: Easily replaceable ceramic tip and vacuum dial gauge, available in various lengths from 15 cm (6") to 150 cm (60") to suit shallow and deep root zones.
- Vacuum Gauge Range: Measures up to 85 centibars, the practical limit before cavitation occurs.
- Optional Jet-Fill Reservoir: Facilitates easy filling and maintenance; includes a reservoir button for air removal without a vacuum pump.
- Clear Assembly and Use: Includes step-by-step setup, installation, and maintenance guidelines.
- High Accuracy: Factory-sealed and adjustable dial gauge ensures zero reference accuracy even at high altitudes.
How It Works
The porous ceramic tip of the tensiometer maintains hydraulic contact with the soil. Water flows into or out of the tube depending on soil moisture levels. The vacuum gauge equilibrates with the soil tension, giving a direct reading on how much effort roots must exert to access water.
Applications
- Agricultural irrigation scheduling
- Greenhouse and nursery management
- Research in soil and plant sciences
- Monitoring soil moisture in orchards and vineyards
- Water conservation initiatives
Available Lengths
- 6", 12", 18", 24", 36", 48", and 60" (15 cm to 150 cm)
Precautions
- Avoid use in freezing temperatureswater inside may freeze and damage components.
- Ensure good soil contact with the ceramic tip for accurate readings.
- Regular air removal and refilling improve accuracy and reliability.
Included Components
- Vacuum Dial Gauge
- Porous Ceramic Sensing Tip
- Body Tube (various lengths)
- Screw Cap or Jet-Fill Reservoir
- Optional Service Kit (for maintenance and fluid filling)
Precision and Durability for Reliable Readings
Crafted from stainless steel, this Soil Tensiometer is engineered for durability, ensuring long-term use in challenging industrial settings. Its sturdy construction guarantees accurate measurements, while the devices manual operation means there are no concerns regarding power supply interruptions or battery failures. With a lightweight 500-gram build and a compact form, it is both easy to transport and install.
User-Friendly Operation and Versatile Application
The Soil Tensiometer features a standard size and intuitive design, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial soil monitoring needs. Its LED display provides clear readings, and its measurement depth is determined by the length of the tube. This flexibility allows users to adapt the device for different soil profiles, ensuring optimal data collection and aiding effective moisture management.
FAQs of Soil Tensiometer:
Q: How does the Soil Tensiometer measure soil moisture?
A: The Soil Tensiometer measures soil moisture using a porous ceramic cup at the end of a tube. The device senses soil water tension directly, which gives an accurate indication of moisture availability to plants at various depths, depending on the length of the tube.
Q: What are the benefits of using a manual Soil Tensiometer in industrial applications?
A: A manual Soil Tensiometer offers reliable moisture measurement without needing a power supply or battery, minimizing downtime and maintenance. Its robust stainless steel body ensures durability, while its user-friendly operation makes it ideal for ongoing industrial soil management.
Q: When should a Soil Tensiometer be used for optimal results?
A: The device should be used regularly during the crop-growing season or soil monitoring periods, particularly when precise soil moisture control is critical. It is effective throughout its 0 to 60C temperature range, allowing for accurate readings in varying climate conditions.
Q: Where can this Soil Tensiometer be deployed effectively?
A: This tensiometer is suited for use in industrial settings such as farms, research stations, and large-scale soil management sites across India. Its portability and standard size make it easy to install in different soil types and locations.
Q: What is the process for installing and using the Soil Tensiometer?
A: To use, simply insert the tube into the soil at the desired depth. The ceramic cup will equilibrate with surrounding soil moisture, and the tension is displayed on the LED screen in real-time. Manual operation simplifies the process and no calibration is needed with each use.
Q: How much data can the Soil Tensiometer store and what is its memory capacity?
A: The device includes a 1 KB memory, and its data storage capacity depends on the type of data logger paired with the unit. This allows users to record and analyze soil moisture trends over time for better management decisions.