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How to Calculate the Amount of Sediment in a Pipe

Measuring the sediment in a pipe is a technique used to calculate the amount of erosion occurring in an area over time. To do this you will need to obtain accurate measurements of the soil from a specific area. Only then can you accurately calculate the exact amount of sediment deposited inside of the pipe over time. You can obtain the necessary materials for this project from your local hardware store.

Things You'll Need

2-inch-diameter metal pipe, 12 inches long
Wood block
Hammer
Tape measure

Instructions

- 1
  Place the metal pipe vertically into the ground where you want to measure the sediment. Push down on the pipe to force it into the ground.
- 2
  Set a wood block on top of the pipe and strike it with the hammer. Drive the pipe down into the ground 10 inches.
- 3
  Insert a tape measure into the pipe, and measure the distance from the ground inside the pipe to the top of the pipe. Make a note of the measurement on a piece of paper.
- 4
  Take additional measurements at frequent intervals, such as once a week or after a rainfall. Make a note for each of the measurements.
- 5
  Subtract the measurement taken in Step 3 from a measurement taken Step 4 to see if there is any sediment buildup in the metal pipe.

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