Groundwater control by groundwater lowering

ABSTRACT When an excavation is to extend beneath the water table the ground conditions may be improved by lowering the level of the water table beneath the proposed base of the excavation. Groundwater lowering is accomplished by removing water from the ground at a faster rate than recharge can occur. The most appropriate type of system of groundwater lowering depends mainly upon the soil conditions present at the site but the size of the excavation, the amount by which the water table has to be lowered and the length of time during which the excavation has to be maintained in a stable and workable condition also have to be taken into account. Settlement may occur as a result of groundwater lowering. If a site is surrounded by buildings then measures should be taken to prevent settlement taking place.