VARIABLE HEAD TEST

Variable test head is used for fine-grained soils such as silts and
silty clays . The following formula applies when :

Where:
k = Coefficient of permeability at T oc. (cm/sec).
a = Cross Sectional area of standpipe (cm).
L = Length of soil specimen (cm)
A = Cross-sectional area of soil sample inside the mould

(cm).
t = (t 1 t 2) = Time interval for the head to fall from h1 to h2.
h1 = Initial head of water at time 1 t in the pipe, measured

above the outlet.

h2 = Final head of water at time 2 t in the pipe, measured
above the outlet.

PROCESS
a) Preparation of remolded soil sample :
1. Weigh the required amount of oven dry soil sample. Evenly
sprinkle the calculated amount of water corresponding to the
OMC Mix the soil sample completely .
2. Clean the mold and apply a small amount of fat inside the mold
and around the porous stones on the motherboard . Although the
mold and attach the collar to it. Set the pan on the motherboard
compaction. Keep the appliance on a solid foundation.
3. The soil sample is placed into the mold and compacted using
standard tools Proctor compaction to achieve a dry density equal
to the predetermined MDD (maximum dry density) . Although the
mold with the compacted soil.
4. Saturate the porous stones. Place the filter papers at both ends
of the soil sample in the mold. Place the mold with drainage base
and lid having saturated porous stones.
b) The saturation of the soil sample :

Connect the water tank to the outlet at the bottom of the

mold and allow water to flow on the ground. Wait until the
water has been able to travel and saturate the sample.

Leave about 1 cm deep clear water to collect on top of the

sample.
Fill the remaining portion of the cylinder with deaerated
water without disturbing the soil surface.
Attach the cover plate on the neck and tighten the nuts on
the rods.