Permeability Testing Services
Understand water flow behaviour in soils and aggregates with Celtest’s independent permeability testing services. Our laboratory provides accurate hydraulic conductivity data to support the design of drainage systems, retaining structures, embankments and pavement foundations.
Permeability testing is essential for assessing how materials perform under saturated conditions, helping to reduce risk and ensure compliance with environmental and engineering requirements.
Permeability Testing You Can Rely On
Celtest delivers laboratory permeability testing across a wide range of material types, from fine soils to coarse drainage aggregates.
Our testing supports:
- Drainage and filter design
- Pavement and foundation performance
- Groundwater and seepage analysis
- Compliance with project and environmental specifications
All testing is carried out in accordance with recognised British and international standards.
How Permeability Testing Supports Your Project
Permeability testing provides measurable data to help you:
- Determine how easily water flows through a material
- Assess suitability for drainage and filtration applications
- Prevent water retention and related structural issues
- Support design decisions for highways and earthworks
- Demonstrate compliance with engineering standards
Permeability Testing Methods
We provide a range of laboratory methods tailored to material type and project requirements.
Horizontal Permeability
CD 225 Revision 1 – Appendix C
- Designed for highway sub-base and capping materials
- Measures the lateral drainage performance of aggregates
- Supports pavement design by ensuring effective water movement
Application:
Critical for highway schemes to reduce water retention within pavement layers and minimise long-term deterioration.
Constant Head Permeability
BS EN ISO 17892-11:2019 & BS 1377-5:1990 (Clause 5)
- Suitable for pervious soils such as sands and gravels
- Measures permeability under a constant hydraulic head
- Provides accurate calculation of permeability coefficient
Application:
Used for filter design, drainage systems and groundwater seepage analysis.
What We Do
We provide independent permeability testing to support engineering design, compliance and material validation. Testing is conducted in controlled laboratory conditions, with clear results provided for technical reporting and decision-making.
How We Work With You
- You provide sample details and testing requirements
- We confirm the appropriate method and standards
- Testing is carried out in our laboratory
- You receive accurate results to support design and compliance
Why Choose Celtest?
- Technical Expertise – Experienced in hydraulic testing across varied materials
- Standards Compliance – Testing aligned with BS EN and BS standards
- Reliable Data – Clear outputs to support engineering decisions
- Scalable Capacity – Supporting both small projects and major infrastructure programmes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is permeability testing used for?
It measures how easily water flows through soils or aggregates, supporting drainage, filtration and structural design.
Which standards do you follow?
We test to BS EN ISO 17892-11:2019, BS 1377-5:1990, and CD 225 Appendix C, depending on material and application.
What types of materials can you test?
We test a range of materials including sands, gravels, sub-base and drainage aggregates.
Why is permeability important in construction?
It helps prevent water build-up, reducing the risk of structural damage and improving long-term performance.
How do I arrange testing?
Contact our team with your requirements, and we will confirm the appropriate testing approach.