Standard Test Method for Marsh Funnel Viscosity of Construction Slurries

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Viscosity is a fundamental characteristic for slurries in construction applications. The Marsh Funnel Viscosity test can be used for field quality control of slurries. Relative changes in slurry viscosity can be identified using Marsh Funnel measurements and modifications can be made to mixing and handling procedures.
Note 1: The development of the Marsh Funnel is credited to Hallan N. Marsh of Los Angeles who published the design and use of his funnel viscometer in 1931.  
5.2 This test method allows for the assessment of the apparent viscosity of construction slurries in the laboratory and in the field. The Marsh Funnel Viscosity is not a true viscosity, it is an index value and can only be used to assess the relative viscosity of the slurry to water. Higher MFV values are obtained for slurries with higher viscosity and lower MFV values are obtained for slurries with lower viscosity.  
5.3 In this test, it is assumed that the apparent viscosity of a slurry is directly related to the flow duration through a specially shaped funnel (the Marsh Funnel).  
5.4 In slurry construction applications, the viscosity of a slurry must be maintained within a predetermined range to stabilize the surrounding soil being supported.  
5.5 The Marsh Funnel Viscosity has been widely used in drilling soil and rock for water wells and oil, gas, soil stabilization, foundation drilling, and hydraulic barrier applications.  
5.6 Inert suspended solids (such as fine sands, clays, and cement) and additives affect the viscosity of slurries. This test may be used to determine the relative effects of these and other such materials on the viscosity of a slurry.
Note 2: The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing, sampling/inspection/etc. Us...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method provides an indirect measurement of the viscosity of construction slurries using a funnel (Marsh Funnel) and a graduated cup with specific volume marks. This test method provides an indicator of the viscosity on a routine basis. This test method has been modified from the API Recommended Practice 13B-1.  
1.2 The result determined using the method is referred to as the Marsh Funnel Viscosity. The Marsh Funnel Viscosity is an index property and is not an actual measurement of viscosity.  
1.3 This test can be performed in the laboratory or in the field to assess the Marsh Funnel Viscosity of a slurry for quality control purposes.  
1.4 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
14-May-2019
Technical Committee
D18 - Soil and Rock
Drafting Committee
D18.16 - Grouting

Relations

Effective Date
15-May-2019
Effective Date
01-Nov-2023
Effective Date
01-Oct-2019
Effective Date
01-Aug-2014
Effective Date
01-May-2012
Effective Date
01-Mar-2012
Effective Date
01-Sep-2011
Effective Date
01-Sep-2011
Effective Date
01-Mar-2010
Effective Date
01-Jan-2009
Effective Date
01-Dec-2008
Effective Date
01-Nov-2008
Effective Date
01-Mar-2008
Effective Date
15-Dec-2007
Effective Date
01-Nov-2007

Overview

ASTM D6910/D6910M-19: Standard Test Method for Marsh Funnel Viscosity of Construction Slurries provides a widely recognized procedure for determining the apparent viscosity of construction slurries using the Marsh Funnel. The primary objective is to offer a consistent, straightforward, and reliable index measurement for slurry viscosity, both in laboratory and field settings. Viscosity measurement using the Marsh Funnel is crucial for quality control in a variety of construction and drilling operations, as it directly relates to the performance and effectiveness of slurries in stabilizing soils and supporting excavation works.

Key Topics

  • Marsh Funnel Viscosity (MFV): The MFV is an index test, not a true viscosity measurement, obtained by timing the flow of a slurry through a standardized funnel. This value provides a relative indication of viscosity compared to water.
  • Routine Quality Control: The method enables monitoring of viscosity changes due to variations in slurry composition, mixing procedures, or environmental conditions.
  • Field and Laboratory Use: The test can be carried out on-site or in controlled laboratory environments, making it a versatile tool for various stages of construction or drilling projects.
  • Impact of Suspended Solids and Additives: The viscosity of a slurry is influenced by materials such as fine sands, clay, cement, and chemical additives, which can all be evaluated using this method.
  • Index Value Nature: Marsh Funnel Viscosity only serves as a comparative value and does not represent the absolute viscosity of the fluid.
  • Standardized Equipment: The method specifies the use of a Marsh Funnel (with a defined geometry), a graduated cup, a timer, and a thermometer for consistent results.

Applications

The Marsh Funnel Viscosity test is extensively employed in the following areas:

  • Drilling Operations:
    • Monitoring and adjusting viscosity for water wells, oil and gas wells, and foundation drilling
    • Ensuring optimal slurry conditions for cuttings transport and borehole stability
  • Soil Stabilization Projects:
    • Evaluating slurry properties for soil and rock stabilization, crucial for the integrity of retaining walls, grouting, and hydraulic barriers
  • Construction Slurries:
    • Quality control during the mixing and handling of cement, bentonite, clay, and polymer slurries used in various civil engineering applications
  • Field Inspections:
    • Rapid, on-site assessment allowing for immediate adjustments in mixing or handling practices to meet project specifications

Maintaining the appropriate viscosity range as determined by the Marsh Funnel method is critical to ensuring slurries achieve the required performance criteria for supporting soils and preventing fluid loss or soil migration.

Related Standards

Several standards and documents are referenced or complement ASTM D6910/D6910M-19, including:

  • ASTM D653: Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
  • ASTM D3740: Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction
  • API RP 13B-1: Recommended Practice for Field Testing Water-based Drilling Fluids (identical to ISO 10414-1:2008)
  • ISO 10414-1: Field testing of drilling fluids

These related standards collectively ensure harmonized testing, reporting, and quality assurance practices for geotechnical engineering, drilling, and construction applications.


Keywords: Marsh Funnel Viscosity, ASTM D6910/D6910M-19, construction slurries, viscosity test, field quality control, drilling slurry, soil stabilization, slurry testing, standard test method, index viscosity, slurry additives, civil engineering, API RP 13B-1, ASTM standards.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM D6910/D6910M-19 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Marsh Funnel Viscosity of Construction Slurries". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Viscosity is a fundamental characteristic for slurries in construction applications. The Marsh Funnel Viscosity test can be used for field quality control of slurries. Relative changes in slurry viscosity can be identified using Marsh Funnel measurements and modifications can be made to mixing and handling procedures. Note 1: The development of the Marsh Funnel is credited to Hallan N. Marsh of Los Angeles who published the design and use of his funnel viscometer in 1931. 5.2 This test method allows for the assessment of the apparent viscosity of construction slurries in the laboratory and in the field. The Marsh Funnel Viscosity is not a true viscosity, it is an index value and can only be used to assess the relative viscosity of the slurry to water. Higher MFV values are obtained for slurries with higher viscosity and lower MFV values are obtained for slurries with lower viscosity. 5.3 In this test, it is assumed that the apparent viscosity of a slurry is directly related to the flow duration through a specially shaped funnel (the Marsh Funnel). 5.4 In slurry construction applications, the viscosity of a slurry must be maintained within a predetermined range to stabilize the surrounding soil being supported. 5.5 The Marsh Funnel Viscosity has been widely used in drilling soil and rock for water wells and oil, gas, soil stabilization, foundation drilling, and hydraulic barrier applications. 5.6 Inert suspended solids (such as fine sands, clays, and cement) and additives affect the viscosity of slurries. This test may be used to determine the relative effects of these and other such materials on the viscosity of a slurry. Note 2: The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing, sampling/inspection/etc. Us... SCOPE 1.1 This test method provides an indirect measurement of the viscosity of construction slurries using a funnel (Marsh Funnel) and a graduated cup with specific volume marks. This test method provides an indicator of the viscosity on a routine basis. This test method has been modified from the API Recommended Practice 13B-1. 1.2 The result determined using the method is referred to as the Marsh Funnel Viscosity. The Marsh Funnel Viscosity is an index property and is not an actual measurement of viscosity. 1.3 This test can be performed in the laboratory or in the field to assess the Marsh Funnel Viscosity of a slurry for quality control purposes. 1.4 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard. 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Viscosity is a fundamental characteristic for slurries in construction applications. The Marsh Funnel Viscosity test can be used for field quality control of slurries. Relative changes in slurry viscosity can be identified using Marsh Funnel measurements and modifications can be made to mixing and handling procedures. Note 1: The development of the Marsh Funnel is credited to Hallan N. Marsh of Los Angeles who published the design and use of his funnel viscometer in 1931. 5.2 This test method allows for the assessment of the apparent viscosity of construction slurries in the laboratory and in the field. The Marsh Funnel Viscosity is not a true viscosity, it is an index value and can only be used to assess the relative viscosity of the slurry to water. Higher MFV values are obtained for slurries with higher viscosity and lower MFV values are obtained for slurries with lower viscosity. 5.3 In this test, it is assumed that the apparent viscosity of a slurry is directly related to the flow duration through a specially shaped funnel (the Marsh Funnel). 5.4 In slurry construction applications, the viscosity of a slurry must be maintained within a predetermined range to stabilize the surrounding soil being supported. 5.5 The Marsh Funnel Viscosity has been widely used in drilling soil and rock for water wells and oil, gas, soil stabilization, foundation drilling, and hydraulic barrier applications. 5.6 Inert suspended solids (such as fine sands, clays, and cement) and additives affect the viscosity of slurries. This test may be used to determine the relative effects of these and other such materials on the viscosity of a slurry. Note 2: The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing, sampling/inspection/etc. Us... SCOPE 1.1 This test method provides an indirect measurement of the viscosity of construction slurries using a funnel (Marsh Funnel) and a graduated cup with specific volume marks. This test method provides an indicator of the viscosity on a routine basis. This test method has been modified from the API Recommended Practice 13B-1. 1.2 The result determined using the method is referred to as the Marsh Funnel Viscosity. The Marsh Funnel Viscosity is an index property and is not an actual measurement of viscosity. 1.3 This test can be performed in the laboratory or in the field to assess the Marsh Funnel Viscosity of a slurry for quality control purposes. 1.4 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard. 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

ASTM D6910/D6910M-19 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 17.060 - Measurement of volume, mass, density, viscosity; 91.100.15 - Mineral materials and products. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM D6910/D6910M-19 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D6910/D6910M-09, ASTM D3740-23, ASTM D3740-19, ASTM D653-14, ASTM D3740-12a, ASTM D3740-12, ASTM D653-11, ASTM D3740-11, ASTM D3740-10, ASTM D653-09, ASTM D653-08a, ASTM D653-08, ASTM D3740-08, ASTM D653-07f, ASTM D653-07e. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM D6910/D6910M-19 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

Standards Content (Sample)


This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D6910/D6910M − 19
Standard Test Method for
Marsh Funnel Viscosity of Construction Slurries
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6910/D6910M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
Fluids
1.1 This test method provides an indirect measurement of
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies
the viscosity of construction slurries using a funnel (Marsh
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as
Funnel) and a graduated cup with specific volume marks. This
Used in Engineering Design and Construction
test method provides an indicator of the viscosity on a routine
2.2 API Document:
basis. This test method has been modified from the API
API RP 13B-1 (R2016), Recommended Practice for Field
Recommended Practice 13B-1.
TestingWater-based Drilling Fluids, Fourth Edition (Iden-
1.2 The result determined using the method is referred to as 3
tical to ISO 10414-1:2008)
the Marsh Funnel Viscosity. The Marsh Funnel Viscosity is an
index property and is not an actual measurement of viscosity.
3. Terminology
1.3 This test can be performed in the laboratory or in the
3.1 Definitions—For common definitions of technical terms
field to assess the Marsh Funnel Viscosity of a slurry for
in this standard, refer to Terminology D653.
quality control purposes.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
1.4 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-
3.2.1 Marsh Funnel Viscosity (MFV)—also known as funnel
pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The
viscosity. The time required (in seconds) for 1 qt [1 L] of a
values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents;
slurry to flow into a graduated cup from a funnel (known as a
therefore,eachsystemshallbeusedindependentlyoftheother.
Marsh Funnel) with specific dimensions.
Combining values from the two systems may result in noncon-
4. Summary of Test Method
formance with the standard.
4.1 In this method, a slurry is poured into a funnel with
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
specific dimensions (Marsh Funnel).The slurry is then allowed
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
to flow into a graduated cup. The time for the slurry to fill a
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter- volume of 1 qt [1 L] is measured and reported as the Marsh
Funnel Viscosity. The test temperature is also reported for
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor- comparison purposes.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
5. Significance and Use
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- 5.1 Viscosity is a fundamental characteristic for slurries in
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
construction applications. The Marsh Funnel Viscosity test can
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. be used for field quality control of slurries. Relative changes in
slurry viscosity can be identified using Marsh Funnel measure-
2. Referenced Documents
ments and modifications can be made to mixing and handling
2.1 ASTM Standards: procedures.
NOTE 1—The development of the Marsh Funnel is credited to Hallan N.
Marsh of Los Angeles who published the design and use of his funnel
This test method is under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee D18 on Soil and
viscometer in 1931.
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.16 on Grouting.
Current edition approved May 15, 2019. Published June 2019. Originally
5.2 This test method allows for the assessment of the
approved in 2004. Last previous edition approved in 2009 as D6910/D6910M – 09,
apparent viscosity of construction slurries in the laboratory and
which was withdrawnApril 2018 and reinstated in May 2019. DOI: 10.1520/D6910
in the field. The Marsh Funnel Viscosity is not a true viscosity,
_D6910M-09.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Available from American Petroleum Institute (API), 1220 L. St., NW,
the ASTM website. Washington, DC 20005-4070, http://www.api.org.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D6910/D6910M − 19
it is an index value and can only be used to assess the relative
viscosity of the slurry to water. Higher MFV values are
obtained for slurries with higher viscosity and lower MFV
values are obtained for slurries with lower viscosity.
5.3 In this test, it is assumed that the apparent viscosity of a
slurryisdirectlyrelatedtotheflowdurationthroughaspecially
shaped funnel (the Marsh Funnel).
5.4 In slurry construction applications, the viscosity of a
slurry must be maintained within a predetermined range to
stabilize the surrounding soil being supported.
5.5 The Marsh Funnel Viscosity has been widely used in
drilling soil and rock for water wells and oil, gas, soil
stabilization, foundation drilling, and hydraulic barrier appli-
cations.
5.6 Inert suspended solids (such as fine sands, clays, and
cement) and additives affect the viscosity of slurries. This test
may be used to determine the relative effects of these and other
such materials on the viscosity of a slurry.
NOTE 2—The quality of the result produced by this standard is
dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the
suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the
criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent
and objective testing, sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are
cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure
reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740
provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
6. Apparatus Dimensional Equivalents
in. mm
6.1 Marsh Funnel (see Fig. 1)—The Marsh Funnel shall
0.125 3.2
0.1875 4.75
comply with the following:
2.0 51.0
6.1.1 Funnel Cone—A cone equipped with a screen at the
6.0 152.0
topandanorificetubeatthebottomshallbeused.Thecapacity
12.0 305.0
of the cone from the bottom of the screen opening to the orifice
FIG. 1 Marsh Funnel
shall be 1.6 qt [1.5 L]. Typical dimensions of the funnel cone
are shown in Fig. 1. It may be manufactured from plastic,
7. Hazards
metal,orotherrigidanddurablematerial,andmaybeprovided
7.1 Appropriate eye and hand protection is recommended
with external handles or stands.
for direct work with the slurries.
6.1.2 Funnel Orifice—An orifice tube of 2-in.
...

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