Sap Flow Meter
Continuously measure stem sap flux density with a 2-probe heat dissipation sap flow meter.
Adjustable 1–99 min intervals, 2 GB storage, solar power option.
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Director of Science · ConductScience
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Key Specifications
Full details →- Model fit
- Configured during quote
- SKU family
- AGR-0034
- Sizing
- Model-specific dimensions confirmed from the selected configuration
- Ordering
- Quote-reviewed before fulfillment
- Category
- Agriculture & Food Science
- Build notes
- Confirm accessories, station layout, and support needs before purchase
The ConductScience Sap Flow Meter measures instantaneous liquid flow density within plant stems, giving researchers a direct, continuous window into how water moves from roots through the vascular system and out to the atmosphere. At its core, the instrument uses the heat dissipation probe method — a constant-heat-flow approach in which a heated probe and a reference probe are inserted into the stem, and the temperature differential between them is used to calculate sap flux density in real time.
Because measurements are taken continuously and logged on-board, the system is well suited to long-term field deployments where capturing diurnal and seasonal water-use patterns is essential. Scientists studying plant–atmosphere water exchange, forest ecosystem responses to drought, or individual tree transpiration dynamics can leave the meter in place and retrieve time-series data at their own intervals.
The two-probe design is a key comparison point when evaluating sap flow instruments: the paired probes allow the heat dissipation calculation to remain stable even as ambient stem temperature shifts, and both probes can be removed and reinserted across multiple measurement campaigns. Sampling intervals are adjustable from 1 to 99 minutes, letting researchers balance temporal resolution against storage and battery life for their specific protocol.
Because stem diameter, species anatomy, and study objectives all influence how this system should be configured, the Sap Flow Meter is available through a guided quote process. Contact ConductScience to discuss your target species, deployment duration, and any power requirements — including optional solar power supply — so the right configuration is prepared for your field season.
Measurement Method
- Heat dissipation probe method (constant heat flow sensor method)
Measurement Parameter
- Instantaneous liquid flow density
Number of Probes
- 2
Probe Length
- 33 mm
Probe Reusability
- Probes are reusable across deployments
Sampling Time Interval
- Adjustable, 1–99 minutes
Display Resolution
- 320 × 160 LCD
Storage Capacity
- 2 GB
Power Supply
- 8.4 V rechargeable lithium battery; solar power supply optionally available
What measurement principle does this sap flow meter use?
The instrument uses the heat dissipation probe method, also referred to as the constant heat flow sensor method. A heated probe inserted into the stem exchanges heat with the surrounding sapwood; the rate of heat dissipation, captured relative to a paired reference probe, is used to calculate instantaneous liquid flow density in the stem.
How many probes are included, and can they be reused across multiple trees or seasons?
The system includes two probes — a measurement probe and a reference probe — both 33 mm in length. Both probes are designed to be removable and reusable, making them practical for researchers who need to rotate equipment across multiple study plots or return to the same trees across successive field seasons.
How often does the meter record data, and how much data can it store?
The sampling time interval is user-adjustable between 1 and 99 minutes, so you can tune recording frequency to match your study's temporal resolution needs. On-board storage capacity is 2 GB.
What power source does the meter use, and is solar power an option for remote deployments?
The standard power supply is an 8.4 V rechargeable lithium battery. For remote or long-term field sites where recharging is impractical, a solar power supply option is available — this can be discussed and specified during the quote configuration process.
Is this system suitable for studying a wide range of tree species and forest types?
Yes. Because the heat dissipation method is applied at the individual stem level, the meter can be deployed across diverse tree species and forest ecosystems. Researchers use it to investigate the water exchange relationship between trees and the atmosphere, monitor how forest ecosystems respond to environmental changes over time, and measure transpiration at the plant scale. Probe fit and installation depth may need to be matched to stem diameter and wood anatomy, which is part of the configuration discussion when you request a quote.
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