When planning drainage infrastructure, onsite detention (OSD), or sustainable water solutions, the critical question isn’t just where will the water go — it’s how fast will it soak into the ground? That’s where Double Ring Infiltrometer Testing comes in.
At Ideal Geotech, we deliver fast, precise, and council-compliant Double Ring Infiltrometer (DRI) Testing across NSW, QLD, and the ACT. This advanced infiltration testing method gives you trustworthy data on how your site handles water under saturated soil conditions — essential for effective stormwater and WSUD design.
1. What Is Double Ring Infiltrometer Testing?
Double Ring Infiltrometer Testing is a field-based method for measuring the vertical infiltration rate of water into soil. The test uses two concentric metal rings — an inner and outer ring — to control the movement of water and minimise lateral flow, resulting in a more accurate representation of soil permeability.
📏 Key Measurements Include:
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Infiltration rate (mm/hr)
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Soil permeability under saturated field conditions
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Suitability for infiltration-based systems such as bioretention basins, rain gardens, or trench drains
Due to its accuracy and repeatability, the DRI method is often required by councils, engineers, and water authorities for new developments and infrastructure approvals.
2. Why Use Double Ring Infiltrometer Testing?
Compared to single-ring or constant head methods, Double Ring Testing offers more reliable results — particularly in clayey or variable soils where lateral water movement can distort readings.
It’s ideal for:
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Projects involving stormwater infiltration
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Sites requiring in-situ permeability verification
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WSUD (Water Sensitive Urban Design) strategies
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Complex or heterogeneous soil profiles where accurate infiltration data is critical
With councils increasingly mandating DRI testing for development approval, using this method helps you stay compliant and confident.
3. How Ideal Geotech Performs DRI Testing
We follow a standards-compliant protocol designed for accuracy, consistency, and regulatory approval:
✅ Site Preparation
Our engineers identify representative test locations based on site layout, topography, and development footprint.
✅Ring Installation
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Inner ring (typically 150mm) and outer ring (typically 300mm) are embedded into the soil
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Water is introduced to both rings simultaneously to establish saturation and reduce lateral flow effects
✅ Timed Readings
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Infiltration rates are calculated by monitoring water level drops at set time intervals
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Steady-state flow is used to determine the true vertical infiltration rate
✅ Analysis & Reporting
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Results are adjusted for soil type, groundwater depth, and moisture content
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A council-ready report is prepared with clear explanations, design values, and compliance references
Most reports are delivered within 5–7 business days, depending on project scale.
4. When Do You Need Double Ring Infiltrometer Testing?
You’ll typically need DRI testing for:
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Development Applications (DA) involving stormwater discharge or OSD systems
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Designing bioretention basins, soak wells, or infiltration trenches
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Demonstrating compliance with council stormwater or erosion control policies
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Projects involving rezoning, subdivision, or major infrastructure planning
If your project involves managing runoff or integrating sustainable drainage solutions, DRI testing is often non-negotiable.
5. Why Engineers and Builders Choose Ideal Geotech
✔️ Quick turnaround – Reports delivered in as little as 3–7 business days
✔️ Trusted methodology – Widely accepted by councils, engineers, and certifiers
✔️ Accurate, repeatable results for confident decision-making
✔️ Fully compliant with Australian Standards and local stormwater guidelines
✔️ Clear documentation – Council-friendly language and actionable design data
We don’t just provide numbers — we deliver insight, clarity, and compliance for your stormwater strategy.
6. Book Your Double Ring Infiltration Test Today
Need to meet council requirements, size your OSD system, or support your stormwater management plan with reliable permeability data?
Order Our Geotechnical Services Now
