Stand for testing the permeability of rocks

Trade name
Laboratory permeameter Eijkelkamp
Technical description

Laboratory permeameter works according to the following principle: by applying different water pressures at either end of a saturated sample and measuring the resulting water flow, water permeability can be determined. In a closed system, water from the storage tank is pumped by a submersible pump through a filter to a height-adjustable level regulator. This level regulator is connected at one end to a plastic container and at the other end to a pipe through which excess water flows back to the storage container. The container can be closed with a sealing plate to limit evaporation during the measurement. In an open system, water flows directly from the water pipe to the level controller.

Since the level regulator and the tank form a connected vessel, the level regulator will maintain the water level in the tank (the water level in the level regulator is equal to the water level in the tank). The fully saturated ring sample is placed in the ring holder and the sieve cap is put on. The ring holder is then placed in the container. Through the plastic siphon, the water above the sample enters the burette. The burettes come in different lengths, making the taps easy to handle. The drip tray collects the water from the burettes and returns it to the storage tank. With an open system, the drainage takes place from the drip tray to, for example, a sink. The operation of the siphon creates a difference in height (h) of the water level inside and outside the ring holder. This difference in height causes a continuous flow of water through the sample. The height of the water levels is measured using a single-point measuring bridge. By accumulating the discharged water in the burette for a certain period of time, the water permeability coefficient (K-factor) of the relevant sample can be calculated using the formula.

Conditions for providing infrastructure

As part of the signed contract with the Hydrodynamic Laboratory, after prior approval by the Laboratory Manager. The test is performed only by an authorized laboratory employee.

Type of accreditation / certificate:
Not applicable
Access type
External
Research capabilities

Determination of the hydraulic conductivity of rocks in the range of 103 to 10-6 m/s.

Last update date
May 27, 2023, 3:20 p.m.
Year of commissioning
2015
Measurement capabilities

Determination of the hydraulic conductivity of rocks in the range of 103 to 10-6 m/s.

Photos
Stand for testing the permeability of loose rocks
Stand for testing the permeability of loose rocks