New Test Method for Determination of Saturated Hydraulic Conductivity of Field Soils by Sealed Single-Ring Infiltrometer and Multiple Pressure Head Procedure
1. Scope
1.1 This test method describes a procedure to quantify field saturated hydraulic conductivity. Field measurements of water infiltration rate are determined using a sealed single-ring infiltrometer equipped to supply constant high and low pressure head and steady ponded water level. The range of saturated hydraulic conductivity that can be quantified is 0.0038 cm/h to 115 cm/h. 1.2 This test method is applicable to wet or dry undisturbed soils over temperatures ranging from 0 to 50C. The test may be conducted in a pit at various depths and is not limited to surface soil applications. This method may not be suitable for highly porous soils, gravels, or impervious surfaces. It cannot be installed below the groundwater table or perched water table. 1.3 For satisfactory results in conformance with this method, the principles governing the size, construction, and use of the apparatus described in this test method should be followed. If the results are to be reported as having been obtained by this test method, then all pertinent requirements prescribed in this test method shall be met. 1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
There is new technology available for measuring field saturated hydraulic conductivity (Kfs) that have advantages over the traditional methods. These newere methods simplify the measurements and improve the accuracy of the measurement. There are only a few standards that apply to the field measurement of Kfs. 5.3 The simplicity of the procedure with the automated sealed single-ring infiltrometer allows for increased Kfs data collection compared to current standard methods (D3385 and D5093). Spatial variability of Kfs at test sites can be determined. 5.2 These data are particularly useful in, but not limited to, the fields of soil science, geotechnical engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering, agronomy, and hydrology.
