Moving Water Tables in Tile-Drained Soils

A Hele-Shaw analogy of the tile drainage problem was used to provide data on moving water table characteristics. The experimental data for water table recession following complete cessation of recharge are presented in comparison with five analytical solutions (due to Glover, Brooks, Kirkham, Hammad and Jenab et al) and two numerical solutions (Isherwood and Moody). Experimental data on rising water tables following sudden commencement of recharge are also presented. The drainage variables whose effects on the moving water table are reported are: (1) The initial or final steady-state mid-drain water table height; (2) the depth of the impermeable bed below the drain axis; and (3) the drain size.