{"product_id":"agratronix-08180-soil-compaction-tester-made-in-usa-sct","title":"AgraTronix 08180 Soil Compaction Tester Made in USA SCT","description":"\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding soil compaction helps field managers, farmers, and researchers tailor practices that support healthy root systems and efficient input use. This in turn may influence crop performance by improving nutrient and water management and reducing the effort needed to till heavy soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhy test soil compaction?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eSoil density at depth affects how roots penetrate, how water moves through the profile, and how nutrients and agrochemicals are distributed. By measuring compaction at key depths, you gain actionable data to guide field decisions and resource use.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRoot development: looser layers can support deeper, more robust roots\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWater retention and movement: density influences infiltration and holding capacity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInputs efficiency: better aeration and placement can enhance the effectiveness of fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eField operations: understanding compaction can help reduce power needs during tillage, saving time and fuel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoil health signals: readings help track changes across seasons\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eMeet the AgraTronix 08180 tester\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 24-inch stainless steel rod reaches deep enough to assess compacted layers, while a removable shock collar protects the gauge during transport or storage. A color coded, liquid filled dial makes readings quick to interpret even in rugged field conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDepth and increments: up to 24 inches, with 3-inch steps\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eColor ranges: green 0-200 psi indicates favorable conditions, yellow 200-300 psi signals fair conditions, red 300+ psi points to more compact soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTips included: a 1\/2-inch tip for firmer soils and a 3\/4-inch tip for softer soils\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDurability and handling: durable molded housing with rubber grip; storage in tester housing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConvenience: hanger hole with nail for easy wall or bench storage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eReal-world use cases\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eField crews use this tester during scouting, post application planning, and seasonal soil surveys to gauge compaction risk in high traffic zones, irrigation trenches, or after rainfall events. The data can inform decisions about tillage timing, equipment choice, and input placement.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLead time and availability: the AgraTronix 08180 is available with a 5-7 business day lead time, helping teams plan procurement alongside field schedules.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"product-faq-snippet\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-q\"\u003eQ: What depth can the tester reach?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-a\"\u003eA: Penetration depth up to 24 inches in 3-inch increments, with two tips for soil firmness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-q\"\u003eQ: What do the color codes on the dial indicate?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-a\"\u003eA: Green means good conditions, yellow is fair, red signals poor conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e","brand":"AgraTronix","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43982354907270,"sku":"B08MVCC3HD","price":274.22,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0665\/1602\/5478\/files\/agratronix-08180-soil-compaction-tester-rod.jpg?v=1778753897","url":"https:\/\/patiozora.com\/products\/agratronix-08180-soil-compaction-tester-made-in-usa-sct","provider":"PatioZora","version":"1.0","type":"link"}