Soil Pocket Penetrometer

Soil Pocket Penetrometer (also known as a hand penetrometer) is an easy-to-use, lightweight, stainless steel unit. It provides rapid estimates of the unconfined compressive strength of fine-grained cohesive soils in the field or lab. However, the Penetrometer does not replace laboratory testing for determining the unconfined shear strength of soil values that are found with Unconfined Compressive Strength Test Equipment. It is a helpful device used to provide instant estimated values

OSHA Publication 29 CFR 1926, Sub-part P specifies the use of the penetrometer for strength estimates of soils when inspecting trench excavations for stability and safety. The device can determine the need for modification of slope angles or the necessity of shoring to reinforce excavations.

This pocket penetrometer is constructed of heavy-duty stainless steel allowing corrosion-free service life. The barrel is knurled for easy gripping in wet and muddy environments. The calibrated spring is steel plated for rust resistance. It has a permanent laser-etched scale on the penetrometer barrel. The scale units are shown in tons per square foot (tsf) or kg/cm². A sliding indicator ring registers the maximum reading after the piston is released.

The handheld penetrometer has a 0.25in (6.4mm) diameter loading piston that is pushed into the soil to a depth of 0.25in (6.4mm). The penetration resistance from the loading spring is registered on the scale. For testing very soft soils an optional 1in (25mm), Adapter Foot Attachment is available. The attachment has an increased loading area of 0.785in² (0.32cm²),16 times more than the standard piston.

Features:

• Rapid estimates of unconfined compressive strength of cohesive soils
• Direct-reading scale in tsf or kg/cm² units
• Sliding indicator ring retains maximum reading
• Stainless steel construction
• Meets OSHA regulations for soil trench stability evaluations

Included Items:

• Soil Pocket Penetrometer
• Carrying pouch

Accessories:

• Adapter Foot Attachment attaches to the penetrometer to increase the diameter of the probe to 1in (25mm) for 16 times the piston area for readings in soft soils.