Hand-Penetrometer for Top Layers – IB

The Royal Eijkelkamp hand-penetrometer measures penetration resistance in the top soil layers. It is ideal for assessing surface density—for example, to determine whether a sports field is sufficiently firm to be playable. Its compact length also allows for horizontal measurements, such as on the walls of soil profile pits.

The device operates by measuring the maximum penetration resistance of a cone over a distance of approximately 10 centimetres, using a compression spring. The penetrometer is supplied with multiple interchangeable cones and springs. Selection of the appropriate cone size and spring strength depends on the expected resistance: higher resistance requires a smaller cone surface area and a stronger spring; lower resistance requires the opposite.