Lutron FR-5120 Digital Fruit Hardness Tester – 20 kg × 0.01 kg Precision Fruit Sclerometer
The Lutron FR-5120 is a digital fruit hardness tester (fruit sclerometer) for measuring the firmness of apples, pears, strawberries, grapes and other large/hard or small/soft fruits. Firmness is a key indicator of ripeness, so the instrument helps fruit research departments, fruit companies, farms and agricultural universities judge maturity and make better decisions on harvest, storage and transport.
It measures up to 20.00 kg (196.10 N / 44.10 lb) with a resolution of 0.01 kg and an accuracy of ±(0.5% + 2 digits) at 23 ± 5 °C. A load cell transducer and microprocessor circuit give stable readings, and the overload capacity is 30 kg.
The tester works in compression and tension, with a peak hold function that freezes the maximum force reached as the tip penetrates the fruit. Readings appear on a large 5-digit backlit LCD that can be reversed for comfortable reading in either orientation, with selectable units of kg, N or lb and fast (0.2 s) or slow (0.6 s) update.
Four penetrometer tips of 3, 5, 8 and 11 mm are supplied with a hard carrying case. Mounting holes on the back allow the gauge to be fitted to the optional FS-1001 test stand for more repeatable results, and an RS-232 output allows connection to a PC with the optional cable and software.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter / Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Digital Fruit Hardness Tester |
| Brand | Lutron |
| Model | FR-5120 |
| Measuring Capacity | 20.00 kg / 44.10 lb / 196.10 N |
| Resolution | 0.01 kg / 0.01 lb / 0.05 N |
| Minimum Display | 0.02 kg / 0.07 lb / 0.3 N |
| Accuracy | ±(0.5% + 2 digits), within 23 ± 5 °C |
| Overload Capacity | Max. 30 kg |
| Function | Tension & compression; normal force and peak hold |
| Units | kg / N / lb |
| Display | 5-digit LCD, 16 mm digit height, backlit, reversible |
| Update Time | Fast approx. 0.2 s; slow approx. 0.6 s |
| Transducer | Load cell |
| Data Output | RS-232 serial computer interface |
| Power Supply | 6 × 1.5 V AA batteries or DC 9 V adapter (adapter not included) |
| Power Consumption | Approx. DC 28 mA |
| Operating Conditions | 0 to 50 °C; less than 80% RH |
| Dimensions | 215 × 90 × 45 mm |
| Weight | 650 g (with batteries) |
| Accessories Included | Penetrometer tips 3 mm, 5 mm, 8 mm and 11 mm; carrying case; operating manual |
| Optional Accessories | Test stand FS-1001; RS-232 cable UPCB-01; USB cable USB-01; SD card data recorder DL-9602SD; software SW-U801-WIN |
Specifications from the Lutron FR-5120 operation manual.
Core Features & User Benefits
The FR-5120 turns fruit firmness into a repeatable number, so harvest, storage and quality decisions are based on data rather than feel.
- 20 kg Capacity with 0.01 kg Resolution Fine resolution across a wide range suits both soft berries and firm apples and pears.
- Peak Hold Captures the maximum penetration force so the reading stays on screen after the test.
- Four Penetrometer Tips 3, 5, 8 and 11 mm tips let you match tip size to fruit type and test method.
- Load Cell Accuracy A load cell transducer gives ±(0.5% + 2 digits) accuracy.
- Reversible Backlit LCD Large 5-digit display reads clearly in the field or packhouse, in either orientation.
- Selectable Units Switch between kg, newton and pound.
- Stand-Mountable Rear mounting holes fit the optional FS-1001 test stand for consistent vertical loading.
- RS-232 Output Send readings to a PC with the optional cable and data-logging software.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does the FR-5120 measure?
It measures the force needed to push a penetrometer tip into fruit. Hardness is then expressed as force per unit area of the tip (P = N / S), which indicates ripeness and storage quality.
Which tips are supplied?
Four tips are included: 3, 5, 8 and 11 mm. Use the same tip size consistently within a study so that results are comparable.
Is a test stand needed?
The FR-5120 can be used hand-held. Lutron notes that best results are obtained on a test stand, and the FS-1001 stand is available as an option.
Can it connect to a computer?
Yes. It has an RS-232 serial output. The RS-232 cable (UPCB-01), USB cable (USB-01) and data-logging software (SW-U801-WIN) are optional accessories.
What power does it use?
Six 1.5 V AA batteries, or an optional DC 9 V adapter.
Catalogue & Datasheet
Lutron FR-5120 Operation Manual
Lutron operation manual with features, full specifications, measuring procedure, RS-232 interface details and optional test stand information.
Download Catalogue (PDF)PDF, 0.1 MB. Manufacturer document from Lutron. For a quotation or configuration advice, contact SciSpectrum.
Product overview
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Specifications
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