Penetrometer Readings explained
The penetrometer reading is obtained using the following method: A 1 kilogram weight is released by a trigger action and falls 1 metre down a shaft, which in-turn hits a 1 centimetre square rod into the soil profile. The 1 centimetre square rod has 1 centimetre increments as the measurement for the depth the rod that has entered into the soil profile. This action is undertaken 3 times in the one position, therefore giving 3 readings eg: 2.5, 4.5, 6.5. A formula is used to calculate the reading and is based on the average figure for the entire course. To obtain this figure there are 6 readings taken every 200m around course. Three of the 6 readings are taken 2m from the running rail and then the remaining 3 readings are taken 4m from the running rail. Each reading is recorded and then all figures are entered into a formula that will provide an average. This average then becomes your race day penetrometer reading and will correspond to your set ratings – Good / Soft/ He