Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

Lutron FR-5120 Precision Fruit Hardness Tester (Sclerometer)

The Lutron FR-5120 is a professional-grade digital fruit hardness tester designed for precise measurement of fruit firmness across various types of produce. With a high capacity of 20 kg and exceptional resolution of 0.01 kg (10 g), this ISO-9001 and CE certified instrument provides reliable data for fruit quality assessment, harvest timing decisions, and storage optimization. Featuring interchangeable tips, digital display with backlight, and advanced measurement functions, the FR-5120 is an essential tool for fruit research departments, commercial growers, agricultural universities, and quality control professionals.

Key Features & Benefits

• High Precision Measurement - 20 kg capacity with 0.01 kg (10 g) resolution for accurate hardness testing
• Versatile Application - Suitable for most fruits including apples, pears, strawberries, grapes, and both large/hard and small/soft varieties
• Multiple Measurement Tips - Includes 4 interchangeable penetrometer tips (3 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm, and 11 mm) for different fruit types
• Peak Hold Function - Automatically captures and displays maximum force reading for easy measurement
• Multi-Unit Display - Select between kg, lb, or Newton units according to preference
• Load Cell Technology - Advanced sensor provides high precision and consistent readings
• Backlit LCD Display - Large 5-digit screen with illumination for clear reading in any environment
• Dual Response Modes - Fast (0.2 second) or slow (0.6 second) update time options
• Zero/Tare Function - Works in both normal force and peak hold modes
• Positive/Reverse Display - Adjustable screen orientation for comfortable viewing
• Computer Connectivity - RS-232 serial interface for data logging (USB adapter optional)
• Overload Protection - Built-in safeguards protect the sensitive load cell mechanism
• Portable Design - Handheld operation with mounting holes for optional test stand attachment
• Complete Kit - Includes hardness tester, 4 penetrometer tips, and hard carrying case

Technical Specifications

Measurement Capabilities Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

Parameter	Specification
Maximum Capacity	20.00 kg / 44.10 lb / 196.10 Newton
Resolution	0.01 kg / 0.01 lb / 0.05 Newton
Minimum Display	0.02 kg / 0.07 lb / 0.3 Newton
Accuracy	±(0.5% + 2 digits), within 23± 5°C
Measurement Functions	Tension & Compression (Push & Pull) Normal force Peak hold (Max. load)
Overload Capacity	Max. 30 kg
Full Scale Deflection	Approx. 0.4 mm max.
Zero/Tare Control	Max. full capacity
Update Time	Fast: Approx. 0.2 second Slow: Approx. 0.6 second

Recommended Measurement Ranges Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

Fruit Types	Suitable Range	Recommended Tip
Apples, pears, peaches, kiwis	0 to 13 kg	6 mm (FRTP-6) or 11 mm (FRTP-11)
Very hard fruits	0 to 20 kg	11 mm (FRTP-11)
Small/soft fruits	Lower range	3 mm (FRTP-3) or 6 mm (FRTP-6)

Physical Specifications Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

Parameter	Specification
Display	LCD (Liquid crystal display) 5 digits, 16 mm (0.63") digit size With backlight Positive or Reverse direction selectable
Dimensions	215 x 90 x 45 mm (8.5 x 3.5 x 1.8 inch)
Weight	650 g (1.43 lb) with batteries
Power Supply	6 x 1.5V AA (UM-3) size battery or DC 9V adapter (not included)
Power Consumption	Approx. DC 28 mA
Operating Temperature	0°C to 50°C (32°F to 122°F)
Operating Humidity	Less than 80% RH

Measurement Principle

The FR-5120 operates on the fundamental principle that fruit hardness can be expressed as the pressure a unit area can withstand. This is calculated using the formula: Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester P = N / S Where:

• P = Hardness value of fruit (kg/cm²)
• N = Pressure of dynamometer (N, kg, lb)
• S = Area of pressure (m², cm²)

The instrument uses an exclusive load cell transducer to precisely measure the force required to penetrate the fruit's surface to a specific depth. This measurement directly correlates with the fruit's firmness, providing valuable data on ripeness, storage potential, and quality characteristics.

Applications

Agricultural Research Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

• Ripeness Assessment - Determine optimal harvest timing based on objective hardness measurements
• Cultivar Evaluation - Compare firmness characteristics across different fruit varieties
• Storage Studies - Monitor changes in fruit firmness during storage periods
• Post-Harvest Research - Evaluate the effects of various treatments on fruit texture
• Plant Breeding - Select for improved firmness traits in breeding programs

Commercial Applications Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

• Quality Control - Establish consistent quality standards based on objective measurements
• Harvest Decisions - Time fruit harvesting to achieve optimal firmness for market
• Storage Management - Predict storage potential and shelf life based on initial firmness
• Transportation Planning - Ensure fruits have adequate firmness to withstand shipping
• Supplier Verification - Confirm incoming fruit meets firmness specifications

Educational Use Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

• Horticultural Training - Teach students objective methods for assessing fruit quality
• Laboratory Demonstrations - Illustrate the relationship between firmness and fruit maturity
• Student Research Projects - Support agricultural science investigations

Included Accessories Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

• Penetrometer Tips
  • 11 mm Tip (FRTP-11) - For large or very hard fruits
  • 8 mm Tip (FRTP-8) - Medium-size fruits
  • 6 mm Tip (FRTP-6) - Standard size for many common fruits
  • 3 mm Tip (FRTP-3) - For small or soft fruits
• Hard Carrying Case - Protective storage and transportation
• Operating Manual - Comprehensive user instructions

Optional Accessories Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

• Test Stand (FS-1001) - For consistent, controlled measurements
• RS-232 Cable (UPCB-01) - For direct computer connection
• USB Cable (USB-01) - USB interface for modern computers
• SD Card Data Recorder (DL-9602SD) - For standalone data logging
• Data Logging Software (SW-U801-WIN) - For advanced data analysis and recording

Advanced Features Explained

Peak Hold Function Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

The peak hold feature automatically captures and maintains the maximum force reading during measurement. This is particularly valuable when testing fruit firmness, as it allows the operator to focus on proper technique rather than watching the display for the maximum value. The captured reading remains displayed until manually reset, making data recording simple and accurate.

Multi-Unit Measurement Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

Switch easily between kilograms, pounds, and Newtons to accommodate different measurement preferences or reporting requirements. This flexibility makes the FR-5120 suitable for international use where different unit standards may be preferred.

Dual Response Modes Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

The ability to select between fast (0.2 second) and slow (0.6 second) response times allows users to optimize the instrument for different testing scenarios. Fast response is ideal for quick measurements of multiple samples, while the slower response provides more stable readings for precise research applications by averaging readings over a longer period.

Data Connectivity Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

The built-in RS-232 interface enables direct connection to computers or data loggers for automated record-keeping and analysis. With optional accessories, measurements can be transferred directly to spreadsheets or specialized software for trend analysis, quality control charting, or research documentation.

Practical Benefits

For Fruit Growers Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

• Harvest Optimization - Objective data helps determine the perfect harvest window for different fruit varieties
• Quality Management - Establish consistent quality standards across multiple harvests
• Market Sorting - Categorize fruits based on firmness for different market destinations
• Storage Decisions - Identify which batches are suitable for long-term storage

For Researchers Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

• Data Precision - High-resolution measurements (0.01 kg) enable detection of subtle differences
• Experimental Consistency - Standardized testing method for reliable research outcomes
• Versatile Applications - Adaptable to various fruit types with interchangeable tips
• Data Integration - Computer connectivity for streamlined data collection and analysis

For Quality Control Professionals Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

• Objective Assessment - Replace subjective "finger test" with quantifiable measurements
• Documentation - Maintain records of quality metrics for traceability
• Consistent Standards - Ensure uniform quality evaluation regardless of the operator
• Supplier Verification - Verify that incoming produce meets specified firmness requirements

Using the FR-5120 Effectively

Tip Selection Guide Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

• 3 mm Tip (FRTP-3) - Ideal for berries, cherries, and other small or delicate fruits
• 6 mm Tip (FRTP-6) - Recommended for most medium-sized fruits including peaches, apricots, and kiwis
• 8 mm Tip (FRTP-8) - Suitable for larger stone fruits and firm varieties of pears
• 11 mm Tip (FRTP-11) - Best for apples, hard pears, and other very firm fruits

Testing Best Practices Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

• Test multiple points on each fruit for representative results
• Remove a small section of skin at the test point for direct flesh measurement when appropriate
• Maintain consistent testing technique across samples for comparable results
• Consider using the optional test stand for maximum consistency
• Record temperature conditions as fruit firmness can vary with temperature

Quality Certifications Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

The Lutron FR-5120 Fruit Hardness Tester is manufactured to high quality standards and carries the following certifications:

• ISO-9001 - International quality management system certification
• CE Marking - Compliance with European safety and environmental protection standards
• IEC1010 - Adherence to international safety standards for electrical equipment

Summary Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester

The Lutron FR-5120 Precision Fruit Hardness Tester represents an essential tool for agricultural professionals seeking objective, reliable measurements of fruit firmness. With its high precision, versatile functionality, and comprehensive feature set, this instrument provides valuable data for optimizing harvest timing, quality control, storage management, and research applications. The inclusion of multiple penetrometer tips, peak hold functionality, and data connectivity options makes the FR-5120 suitable for diverse fruit testing scenarios across commercial, research, and educational environments.