Permeability, Flow Nets and Darcy’s Law Test System
The Permeability, Flow Nets and Darcy’s Law Test System by Atto Labware is a comprehensive educational unit designed to demonstrate the fundamental principles of groundwater flow through soils. It allows students to study both the permeability characteristics of different soil samples and visualize flow nets under various boundary conditions. The system enables verification of Darcy’s Law and the influence of hydraulic gradient, head loss, and soil type on flow behavior.
Educational Objectives
Students and researchers will be able to:
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Determine the coefficient of permeability for various soils.
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Verify Darcy’s Law and its relationship between discharge, head, and hydraulic gradient.
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Construct and analyze flow nets for confined and unconfined seepage conditions.
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Study seepage through earth dams and beneath sheet piles.
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Observe the effects of soil structure and gradation on permeability.
Performance Measurement
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Measurement of flow rate through soil samples at different heads.
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Determination of head loss using multiple piezometric tubes.
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Calculation of permeability coefficient (k) using Darcy’s equation.
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Observation of flow lines and equipotential lines to construct flow nets.
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Evaluation of seepage rate and hydraulic conductivity under varying gradients.
Panel and Instruments / Components
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Permeability Tank: Transparent acrylic tank for visual observation of flow patterns.
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Soil Sample Compartment: Replaceable chamber for packing different soil types.
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Piezometer Tubes: Multi-tube piezometer array for head measurement at various points.
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Inlet and Outlet Chambers: To establish and control steady-state flow conditions.
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Flow Control Valves: For precise adjustment of water head and discharge.
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Measuring Cylinder / Rotameter: For accurate measurement of flow rate.
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Water Supply System: Closed-loop circulation with sump tank and pump.
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Support Frame: Powder-coated steel structure ensuring rigidity and corrosion resistance.
Specifications (Includes Technical Data)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Permeability and Flow Visualization Apparatus |
| Tank Material | Transparent Acrylic |
| Tank Dimensions | 600 mm L × 400 mm H × 150 mm D |
| Soil Chamber | Removable, with perforated base plate |
| Flow Measurement | Graduated Cylinder or Rotameter |
| Head Measurement | 10–15 Piezometer Tubes |
| Water Circulation | Closed Loop with Pump and Sump Tank |
| Working Fluid | Water |
| Flow Range | 0 – 2 L/min (typical) |
| Operating Temperature | +5 °C to +40 °C |
| Storage Temperature | –25 °C to +55 °C |
| Construction | Stainless steel and acrylic assembly on powder-coated frame |
| Overall Dimensions | 1000 mm L × 500 mm W × 800 mm H |
| Weight (Approx.) | 35 kg |
Note: Optional digital flow sensors, piezometric transducers, and data acquisition system available on request.
