Welcome to Pro Drainage Group, the United Kingdom’s prime specialists in domestic and commercial sewage treatment plants. We’re proud to be renowned as the country’s foremost authority in installing, repairing, and maintaining all kinds of sewage treatment plants.
Before embarking on the installation of a sewage treatment plant, it’s crucial to evaluate the soil conditions of the proposed site. Two essential tests in this evaluation process are Porosity and Percolation tests. These tests provide invaluable data that can shape the design and effectiveness of your sewage treatment plant. What do these tests entail and why are they so pivotal.
Porosity Test: This test measures the soil’s capacity to hold water, an essential factor in understanding how well the soil can handle liquid waste. A soil with high porosity is generally better suited for sewage treatment plants as it allows for better water flow.
Percolation Test: Also known as a “perc test,” this assesses the soil’s ability to drain water. Essentially, it measures the time it takes for water to drop one inch in a test hole, providing a rate that helps in the design of the drainage field for the sewage treatment plant.
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Conducting these tests determines whether the land in question is suitable for a sewage treatment plant. Unsuitable soil could lead to drainage issues or even system failure.
Understanding soil properties can lead to a more efficient design, potentially saving you money in construction and long-term maintenance.
Many jurisdictions require these tests as part of the approval process for installing a sewage treatment system, and failure to comply can result in fines or legal repercussions.
So how Are These Tests Conducted?
A designated area is usually marked, and initial observations are made concerning soil type and moisture content.
For a percolation test, holes of a standard diameter and depth are dug at multiple locations within the proposed drainage field.
The holes are filled with water, and the time it takes for the water level to drop is measured to determine the percolation rate.
Samples of the soil are taken and tested in a lab setting to determine their porosity levels.
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The results are thoroughly analysed to derive specific rates and percentages, which then inform the design of the sewage treatment plant.
Based on test outcomes, engineers can make informed decisions about the size and type of drainage field needed, the kind of sewage treatment plant to install, and whether any soil improvement measures are necessary.
With these test results, you can proceed to apply for the necessary permits and approvals, as they often form a crucial part of the documentation.
Understanding soil conditions helps in more accurate budgeting for both installation and future maintenance.
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Porosity and Percolation tests are not mere formalities but essential prerequisites that inform the entire lifecycle of your sewage treatment plant, from design and installation to long-term functionality.
If you would like to find out more about our pre-installation tests and procedures then please do get in touch with us. You can call us on 0800 511 82 99 or use the button below to send us an email. For your convenience, we have provided a contact form here for you to fill out in your own time. Once submitted, a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
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