AELAB Fruit Hardness Tester FHT-1122 – Compact Penetrometer for Fruit Firmness Measurement

The AELAB Fruit Hardness Tester FHT-1122 is a handheld compact penetrometer for fruit and some vegetable hardness testing. By measuring force required to plunge into fruit pulp, inferring ripeness, the FHT-1122 assists in determining the picking time or monitoring softening during storage.

The FHT series is an indispensable tool for growers. It integrates Max Hold, Unit Convert Functions, USB/RS-232 data output, and supports optional Bluetooth connectivity.

⚙️ Design & Construction

The AELAB FHT-1122 features a precision penetration probe system with stainless steel tips measuring 7.9 mm and 11.1 mm to accommodate a broad range of fruit types. The ergonomic handheld structure maintains stable force alignment while the digital LCD screen ensures clear reading visibility. Its lightweight 230 g construction and compact 204 × 62 × 33 mm body allow reliable field use in orchards, packing facilities, and laboratory environments.

🔬 Working Principle / Testing Method

The FHT-1122 quantifies fruit firmness by measuring the penetration resistance of the pulp at a controlled tip diameter and a fixed pressing depth of 10 mm. The instrument calculates force in kgf/cm² with selectable resolution (0.01/0.1/1) and provides peak-hold capture for maximum pressure reached. Accurate to ±(1%H+0.1)kgf/cm², the tester supports multiple unit interpretations and converts values into N/cm² or relevant pressure metrics when required.

💡 Key Advantages

• Digital penetration force measurement ensures reproducible ripeness evaluation
• Interchangeable probe tips support small, soft, firm, and hard fruit groups
• Peak-hold and real-time reading modes enhance post-harvest quality monitoring
• USB and RS-232 interfaces enable direct data logging to PC software
• Optional Bluetooth adapter allows wireless field collection and mobility
• Low power consumption using standard AAA batteries for extended operation
• Compact rugged design suitable for outdoor agricultural testing

🔗 Connectivity & Integration

The FHT-1122 supports output via USB and RS-232C for PC-based data acquisition and report generation. For wireless operation, the optional Bluetooth Data Adapter with software provides mobility and integrated export functions compatible with standard GLP documentation workflows.

🧠 Model Insight

🧪 Testing Applications

The AELAB FHT-1122 is suitable for evaluating firmness in strawberry, cherry, grape, berry, peach, banana, apricot, plum, melon, citrus, persimmon, pear, nectarine, kiwi, and hard fruits such as avocado. It is widely used in agricultural research, ripeness classification, orchard management, post-harvest logistics, storage evaluation, and fruit breeding programs.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

The FHT-1122 adheres to AELAB manufacturing and calibration standards, supporting traceable measurement performance for field and laboratory quality control under ISO, CE, and GLP-aligned procedures.