PERCOLATION TESTING FOR SEPTIC TANK LEACH FIELDS AT ROADSIDE RESTS

In order to better design septic tank leach field systems at safety roadside rest areas, this interim study of the percolation characteristics of the soil was undertaken. It became apparent that the present methods of obtaining percolation rates for different soils (used for the design of septic tank leach fields) did not provide consistent and, in some cases, accurate results. This study shows that there are many factors which can affect the percolation test, such as: Hole depth; Hole diameter; Use of power augers; Use of pea gravel and perforated pipes; Loose soil left in test holes; Method and duration of presoaking test hole; Type of measuring device used; and Procedure used for the test. Based on the results of this study, a "Standardized Percolation Test Procedure" was developed. This standardized procedure eliminates the factors which can affect percolation testing and provides the designer with percolation rates which can be logically compared from one site to another. (FHWA)

• Corporate Authors:

  California Department of Transportation

  Transportation Laboratory
  5900 Folsom Boulevard
  Sacramento, CA  United States  95819

  Federal Highway Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • VAN KIRK, J L
  • Grottkau, W A
  • Shirley, E C
  • Howell, R B
• Publication Date: 1981-9

Media Info

• Pagination: 81 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Augers; Design; Leaching; Percolation; Perforated pipe; Roadside; Roadside rest areas; Septic tanks; Soils; Testing
• Old TRIS Terms: Power augers
• Subject Areas: Design; Environment; Geotechnology; Highways; Planning and Forecasting; Terminals and Facilities; I21: Planning of Transport Infrastructure;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00349950
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: FHWA/CA/81/05 Intrm Rpt.
• Contract Numbers: F78 TL 01
• Files: TRIS, USDOT, STATEDOT
• Created Date: Sep 30 1982 12:00AM