Irrometer Tensiometer Model SR Manual Gauge, 24in

224 Model SR Manual Gauge 24" (60cm) | Irrometer Soil Moisture Sensors for Soil Moisture Sensors

The “SR” Irrometer is the standard instrument for medium to heavy soils.

Includes threaded replaceable tip and reservoir, air free gauge chamber and hermetically sealed IRROMETER vacuum gauge with dual scale of centibars and kilopascals (0-100 cb [kpa] range).

White tipped STANDARD (SR) for general use with row, tree plants and field crops, 0-100 cb (kPa) range. By optimizing irrigation, the Irrometer Tensiometer conserves resources, it’s a smart tool for better crop management.

***Note: A Service Unit is required for proper operation of the IRROMETER instrument and should be included on initial orders.***One unit will service ALL of your IRROMETERS:

• The Standard Service Unit (1001) is used during initial installation and then periodically for removal of air from instrument to ensure maximum sensitivity and accuracy.

• The Test Pump Service Unit (1002) removes air and tests the gauge in one operation.

Product Description

The Tensiometer is the only direct measurement system available, it actually reads the physical forces at work in the soil, and also has an easy setup. Tensiometers act like a dummy root, the soil moisture interacts with the instrument through the ceramic tip. Soil water tension outside of the instrument tries to remove the water level from it, which creates a measurable tension inside the column. This tension is read with either a mechanical gauge or a transducer attached to the instrument, allowing managers make informed decisions on irrigation timing and quantity. This is the most accurate and proven method available, but requires some maintenance to keep them full of water and must be removed from the field during the winter months to avoid freezing.

• IRROMETER measures soil water tension which means plant water level availability.

• The IRROMETER Tensiometer is the standard in soil moisture measurement, an affordable and reliable way to measure soil moisture for irrigation scheduling.

• An IRROMETER will measure the actual soil water tension, which means the effort required by the root system to extract water from soil plants. There are many ways to estimate irrigation demand but tensiometers is a better way to measure actual irrigation needs.

• Because the IRROMETER is a true measurement of soil water potential, the instrument is not affected by salinity and does not require site calibration.

• The IRROMETER is available in several models, with standard lengths of 6”, 12”, 18”, 24”, 36” or 48” depending on the rooting depth of the specific crop. This promotes plants and their health by giving you insights into the root zone, so you can make better decisions for irrigation.

How Soil Moisture Sensors Work

Soil moisture sensors are essential for estimating irrigation demand and plant health in the ground. These devices measure the amount of water in the soil by detecting changes in the soil’s electrical conductivity which varies with moisture levels. Among the various types of soil moisture sensors, tensiometers like the Irrometer are the most accurate and reliable.

Tensiometers work by mimicking plant ground roots and trees. They are a sealed, water filled tube with a porous ceramic tip placed in the soil at the desired root zone depth. As the soil dries, water level is drawn out of the tube, creating a vacuum that the sensor measures. This vacuum or soil water tension means how much effort the plant ground roots and trees must exert to extract water from the soil.

These can be used in various applications, agriculture, gardening and landscaping. They are very effective in non-soil container media such as potting mixes where traditional soil moisture measurement methods fail. By giving you precise data on soil moisture levels, tensiometers help you make informed decisions on irrigation, for optimal plant health and resource conservation.

Model SR

• 0-100 cb (kPa) gauge

• Replaceable ceramic tip (white)

• Air-free gauge for accurate reading

• Large reservoir for easy maintenance

• Hermetically sealed gauge for harsh environment

Part | SR Depth | Weight

• 206 | 6” (15 cm) | .844 lb. /.383 kg

• 212 | 12” (30 cm) | .968 lb. / .439 kg

• 218 | 18” (45 cm) | 1.09 lb. / .496 kg

• 224 | 24” (60 cm) | 1.22 lb. / .553 kg

• 236 | 36” (90 cm) | 1.47 lb. / .666 kg

• 248 | 48” (120 cm) | 1.72 lb. / .780 kg

New And Improved Gauges For 2019
Both SR and LT IRROMETERS now have a membrane vent for better temperature and elevation related compensation, a larger 2 ½ inch face for easier reading and a stainless steel rustproof body.

Data Options

Options to connect IRROMETER tensiometers to data collection or control devices are available, switching gauges as well as 4-20mA and 0.5V to 4.5V output transducers.

Using the Irrometer 224 Tensiometer

Installation and Placement

To get accurate readings from the Irrometer 224 Tensiometer, installation and placement is key. Here are some tips to follow:

• Choose a Representative Location: Select a spot that represents the average soil moisture conditions in the root zone.

• Install at the Right Depth: Depending on the crop and soil type, install the tensiometer at 6-12” depth.

• Good Soil Contact: Make sure the porous tip is in firm contact with the soil and not compacted.

• Avoid Problematic Areas: Steer clear of areas with standing water or where water tends to accumulate.

By following these tips, the tensiometer will accurately reflect the soil moisture conditions, for better irrigation management.

Reading the Readings

Understanding the readings from the Irrometer 224 Tensiometer is critical for irrigation management and plants and its health. Here’s what they mean:

• 0-10 cb: Soil is saturated, too much water, waterlogged.

• 10-30 cb: Soil is wet, enough moisture for plants.

• 30-60 cb: This range means irrigation is needed, soil is dry enough to need water.

• 60-100 cb: Soil is critically dry, irrigation needed now to prevent plants in the ground.

These are general guidelines, ground crop, soil and climate may vary. For more accurate interpretation, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines and local experts.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Regular maintenance is key to get accurate readings and long life from the Irrometer 224 Tensiometer. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Check Regularly: Check the tensiometer for damage or wear.

• Clean the Porous Tip: Clean the tip regularly to prevent clogging and get accurate readings.

• Replace Fluid: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacing the tensiometer fluid.

• Calibrate: Calibrate the tensiometer periodically.

If you have issues with the tensiometer:

• Check Installation: Make sure the tensiometer is installed correctly and the porous tip is in good contact with the soil.

• Check Fluid Levels: Check the tensiometer fluid level and replace if necessary.

• Consult Experts: Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and local experts for specific troubleshooting.

By following these maintenance and troubleshooting tips, your Irrometer 224 Tensiometer will be a valuable tool for making informed decisions on irrigation and plant health.