Tensiometer Soil Moisture Sensor for Irrigation

Description

The tensiometer soil moisture sensor uses a 10-24V DC power supply and supports depths from 15cm to 120cm. It operates in temperatures of 0~+80°C with a measurement range of -100kPa to 0 and ±0.5kPa accuracy at 25°C. The sensor has a 0.1kPa resolution, is made of transparent PVC, and has an IP67 protection rating. It outputs a 4~20mA or RS485 (ModBus) signal, consumes 0.8W (DC24V), and has a response time of 200ms.

Specification

Feature

• Made with transparent PVC plastic tubing, allowing direct observation of water levels. It features a fast response time, making it highly responsive to changes in soil conditions.
• Equipped with a high-quality ceramic head that ensures quick water permeability without air penetration, enhancing sensitivity.
• Resistant to the influence of salts in the soil, as well as chemicals like fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural substances. This durability ensures that agricultural activities do not affect measurement accuracy, maintaining precise data.
• Uses standard ModBus-RTU485 communication protocol, supporting a maximum communication distance of up to 2000 meters.
• Compatible with a 10-24V wide voltage power supply, allowing flexibility in various installation environments.

Size

Installation Location Selection

• Install the device after planting the crop.
• The installation location should have level ground.
• Under fully irrigated conditions, prioritize areas with lower water levels as monitoring
  locations; under partially irrigated conditions, select moist areas as monitoring locations.
• Choose locations that represent the average growth conditions of most crops.
• Understand the root distribution of the monitored crop; generally, select locations close to the crop’s main water-absorbing roots.

Tips: Is the sensor affected by environmental factors like temperature or sunlight?

The Tensiometer Soil Moisture Sensor is designed to be robust and withstand various environmental conditions, including high temperatures and direct sunlight. Here’s how it performs under different environmental factors:

1. Temperature: The sensor can operate within a wide temperature range (0~+80°C), suitable for most agricultural settings. However, extreme temperatures may slightly affect water tension readings. For best results, avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures near the extremes of its range.
2. Sunlight: The transparent PVC material is UV-resistant, allowing the sensor to be exposed to sunlight without degrading. However, excessive heat from direct sunlight can cause evaporation in the Tensiometer’s water chamber. Regularly checking water levels can mitigate this issue.
3. Humidity and Rain: The IP67 protection rating means the sensor is dust-tight and can withstand temporary immersion in water. This makes it suitable for humid and rainy environments, though it’s advisable to secure the sensor to prevent water accumulation.