Modelling seepage flow velocity in centrifuge models

Based on the characteristics of clay compression and the Kozeny-Carman equation, the relation between seepage flow velocity and centrifugal accelerations is deduced considering the change of intrinsic permeability. An apparatus for constant head seepage tests is developed considering the set-up of conventional seepage test apparatus and the characteristics of centrifugal model tests. A series of seepage tests (1 g, 10 g, 20 g, 30 g) are performed on Nuozhadu core-wall clay by means of the apparatus. It is concluded that the ratio of Ng and 1 g hydraulic conductivity decreases with the increase of centrifugal acceleration, but the variation is small and the ratio is close to N. The research results are important for understanding the scaling of seepage flow velocity in centrifuge models.