PCE-PTR 200 penetrometer
for measuring firmness in fruit and to test the grade of maturity,
with measurement range of up to 20kg, RS-232 port and optional software

The PCE-PTR 200 penetrometer is highly useful in testing the maturity of many types of fruit. This digital penetrometer offers a higher accuracy and resolution than any other analogue device.  With the PCE-PTR 200 penetrometer you will obtain valuable information, no only about the optimum time for picking fruit, but about the progress of the fruit from when it is picked until it is consumed, including when it is being stored and shipped.
The PCE-PTR 200 penetrometer is controlled by a microprocessor, is easy to read an accurate and can be fixed to an optional test position. It is powered by batteries or by a mains adaptor (300mA power source available seperately). The display of the penetrometer can be turned 180° to allow for better visibility when taking measurements.
To transfer data from the penetrometer to a computer, you need the optional software pack with data cable. Data transfers to a computer, using the software, at a rate of one reading every 2 seconds. The test position is ideal for measuring in quality control and in laboratory experiments. This link shows an overview of penetrometers more suitable to your needs.

• Maximum value for readings of traction and compression

• Zero reset by way of keypad, if required
• Peak Hold function
• Auto shut-off
• Mounting holes on the back of the device when it needs to be fixed into place while measuring
• Battery level indicator
• Overload protection = 150%

View or print the user's manual
                          

To talk about the maturity of fruit, its important to distinguish between physical maturity and commercial maturity. Physiological maturity can only transpire while the fruit is still on the plant and is the last moment when the fruit can be picked to be sold. Commercial maturity occurs later, and indicates the best time to consume the fruit, when its colour, flavour and texture are ideal for the consumer. In the case of the climatic fruit, the commercial maturity of the fruit can occur some time after it has been picked.
While fruit is maturing, important changes occur inside, such as changes in colour, form and texture. It's important to have objective values available with those that evaluate the changes in the fruit as it matures, to allow for decisions to be made as to when the fruit should be picked and processed (to determine the quality of fruit from the moment it becomes a product to its final consumption). The firmness of the fruit, measured by the penetrometer, one of the most objective parameters in relation to the fruits maturity and as such is one of the most common techniques used in testing. Other methods are to determine the colour or the content of soluables using a refractometer (this technique is proportional to measuring total sugar and thus the sweetness of the fruit). If you are looking for refractometers to measure the sugar content of fruit, you can see them at this link.
Generally, the firmness or hardness of fruit measured by a penetrometer decreases as the maturity process occurs. Of course, you have to take into account that the firmness of the same fruit can vary, in general terms such as fruit variety or the region where it is cultivated, or due to its size or the temperature of the fruit when it is being measured by the penetrometer (the higher the temperature, the less firm the fruit is).

The PCE-PTR 200 penetrometer provides the force exerted upon the fruit in grams (1g = 0.001kg), with which the pressure exerted in kg/cm² can be obtained, taking into account the size of sensor being used. For example, for the same value obtained by a penetrometer of 4320g, for each sensor used, the real exterted pressure will be the value in kg divided by the diameter of the sensor that took the measurement:

Here are link to provide access to function tables for recommended ranges for different types of fruit:

* Range of 0 - 1kg. (Appropriate for fruits such as grapes or cherries), with the 6mm diameter sensor
  (Range 0 - 1kg. 6mm).
* Range of 0 - 5kg. (Appropriate for plums, lemons and other medium hard fruits) using the 6mm
  diameter sensor (Range 0 - 5kg. 6mm) or the 8mm diameter sensor. (Range 0 - 5kg. 8mm).
* Range of 0 - 13kg. (Appropriate for fruits such as apples, pears, peaches or kiwis) using the 8mm
  diameter sensor (Range 0 - 13kg. 8mm) or the 11.3mm diameter sensor. (Range 0 - 13kg. 11.3mm).
* Range of 0 - 20kg. (Appropriate for very hard fruits) using the 11.3mm diameter sensor
  (Range 0 - 20kg. 11.3mm).

This link has more detailed information about the tables and graphs showing the equivalence between the force measured by the penetrometer and the pressure applied to the sensor (in ranges according to DIN).
This digital penetrometer offers the best accuracy and resolution available compared to analogue penetrometers. On important advantage, aside from having three different penetrating sensors, it eliminates the need to purchase multiple analogue devices required to perform the same functions as this PCE-PTR 200 digital penetrometer.

View or print the user's manual for the software

Data transfers to a computer, using the software, at a rate of one reading every 2 seconds.
The penetrometer can trasfer data at a quicker rate when transferring from memory to a computer, one reading every 0.25 seconds using Windows hyper terminal.

The PCE-PTR 200 penetrometer measuring the firmness of a plum in the fields

How to measure the firmness of a piece of fruit using the PCE-PTR 200 penetrometer: 

1. Choose to most appropriate sensor for the type of fruit that is going to be measured.

2. Remove the skin of the fruit.

3. Position the sensor perpendicular.

4. Press the sensor until it penetrates up to the indicating mark on the sensor.

5. View the value measured as shown on the display of the penetrometer.

  Penetrometer measuring the firmness of an apple with an 11mm sensor

Penetrometer measuring the firmness of a potato with an 8mm sensor

Readings can be transferred to a computer by way of the RS-232 connection and software. The following link has information pertaining to the software pack.

 Software

         
Software indicating the time interval in which the device shows and adjusts measurement values. Can indicate digitally and with graphic curves.

       
Software with the value curves for the penetrometer: Can choose between representation in analogue or digital.

        
Image of software with digital representation which provides a higher accuracy of data reading.

 Carrying case

• Software and cable to trasnfer data to a computer
• Mains adaptor (230V / 50Hz)
• Calibration certificate

Test Position
The force meter can be combined with any of the three test positions we have available. Two test positions are equipped with a crank and one the third has a motor. The effective use of the test position is in daily testing of materials in a laboratory and you wish to maintain the same conditions, eliminating the possibility of human error.

The technical specifications for the different positions are available at this link: Test Positions.

Descriptions of test positions can be found within the corresponding on-line category: penetrometers.

If you wish to take a perfect measurement of firmness, the penetrometer should be mounted to a fixed position to guarantee that pressure is applied slowly and evenly with a constant angle in respect to the fruit. The manual test position for the PCE-PTR 200 penetrometer is operated by a lever and offers the ideal solution. This also guarantees accuracy between the model and the device. It has screws for making fine adjustements to ensure the best accuracy. There are hidden holes in the back of the penetrometer allowing for the test position to be attached to the device.

  Technical data for the test position:

  - Maximum length of 345mm
  - Total length of 530mm (without manual wheel)
  - Manual wheel diameter of 120mm
  - Diameter of the adjusting bolt: 15mm
  - Length of the base of 250mm
  - Width of the base of 230mm
  - Base plate upon the foot (145 x 100mm)
  - Approximate weight of 7kg

Contact:
PCE Instruments UK Limited
Units 12/13 Southpoint Business Park
Ensign Way, Southampton
United Kingdom, SO31 4RF
Phone. +44 ( 0 ) 2380 98703 0
Fax +44 ( 0 ) 2380 98703 0

Below you will find an overview of the different product groups of measuring instruments