Plotting the infiltration rate against elapsed time yields an infiltration curve. The curve typically drops sharply at the beginning of the test as dry soil matrix suctions pull water in, eventually flattening out into a horizontal line representing the steady-state infiltration rate. Limitations and Practical Considerations
A single-ring infiltrometer often overestimates infiltration rates because water diverges laterally (sideways) once it passes the bottom edge of the ring. The double-ring design solves this issue:
A common point of confusion in geotechnical reporting is mixing up infiltration rate and hydraulic conductivity (permeability).
is where the actual measurements are taken. Because it is surrounded by the saturated buffer of the outer ring, the water from the inner ring is forced to move almost entirely downward in one-dimensional, vertical flow. astm d338518 pdf
To summarize:
To execute this test legally and accurately for commercial engineering projects, you must reference the official, full-text standard document.
Understanding ASTM D3385-18: Standard Test Method for Infiltration Rate of Soils in Field Using Double-Ring Infiltrometer Plotting the infiltration rate against elapsed time yields
The testing area should be nearly level. If you want to test the infiltration rate of subsoils rather than the surface layer, you must carefully excavate a pit to the desired depth, ensuring minimal disturbance to the exposed soil.
ASTM D3385-18 outlines the field procedure for measuring soil infiltration rates using a double-ring infiltrometer to evaluate liquid penetration, particularly for engineering and environmental applications. This standard test method maintains a constant hydraulic head in concentric rings to measure one-dimensional vertical flow in relatively uniform, fine-grained soils. Purchase the official standard and obtain the PDF from ASTM International .
Conducting a test compliant with ASTM D3385-18 requires a specific toolkit designed to maintain physical and hydraulic integrity in the field: The double-ring design solves this issue: A common
Typically an open cylinder that is at least 300 mm (approx. 12 in.) in diameter and at least 500 mm (approx. 20 in.) long.
Infiltration Rate of Soils in Field Using Double-Ring Infiltrometer1
Engineers and researchers frequently search for the "ASTM D3385-18 PDF" to access the precise procedural mandates required for regulatory compliance and accurate field testing. Below is an in-depth breakdown of the standard, its methodology, applications, and technical nuances. What is ASTM D3385-18?