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D6170-17 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📋 Scope and Overview
ASTM D6170-17 provides a systematic approach for selecting groundwater modeling codes. Due to the complex nature of fluid flow and biotic and chemical transport in the subsurface, many different codes exist with specific capabilities and limitations. This guide assists in analyzing project requirements and matching them with candidate code functionalities. It is one of a series of standards, including D5447, D5490, D5609, D5610, D5611, D5718, and D6025. The standard does not recommend a specific action but offers organized information for professional application.
Figure 1 in the standard is provided to assist with determining project needs and code capabilities. Use it to facilitate the selection process.
⚙️ Code Selection Methodology
The code selection process involves systematic analysis of project requirements and careful evaluation of candidate codes. Determining the most appropriate code requires thorough analysis of the problem at hand and the required and available resources. Insufficiently documented capabilities may require additional analysis of code functionality. The guide emphasizes careful documentation throughout the process.
Factors such as model purpose, physical system characteristics, and available data are critical. Referenced guides like D5447 for model application and D5490 for comparison provide further guidance.
📊 Referenced Standards and Terminology
The following tables list key standards and terms defined in D6170-17.
Referenced Standards:
| 🟦 Standard | 📏 Description |
|---|---|
| D653 | Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids |
| D5447 | Guide for Application of a Groundwater Flow Model to a Site-Specific Problem |
| D5490 | Guide for Comparing Groundwater Flow Model Simulations to Site-Specific Information |
| D5609 | Guide for Defining Boundary Conditions in Groundwater Flow Modeling |
| D5610 | Guide for Defining Initial Conditions in Groundwater Flow Modeling |
| D5611 | Guide for Conducting a Sensitivity Analysis for a Groundwater Flow Model Application |
| D5718 | Guide for Documenting a Groundwater Flow Model Application |
| D6025 | Guide for Developing and Evaluating Groundwater Modeling Codes (Withdrawn 2017) |
Key Terminology:
| 🟦 Term | 📏 Definition |
|---|---|
| Analytical model | A model that uses closed form solutions to the governing equations applicable to groundwater flow and transport processes. |
| Code selection | The process of choosing the appropriate computer code, algorithm, or other analysis technique capable of simulating those characteristics of the physical system to fulfill the modeling project’s objectives. |
This guide cannot replace education or experience and should be used with professional judgment. Not all aspects may be applicable in all circumstances. The word “Standard” in the title means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What does D6170-17 cover?
It covers a systematic approach for determining requirements and selecting computer codes for groundwater modeling projects.
💡 How does the guide approach code selection?
Through systematic analysis of project requirements and careful evaluation of candidate code capabilities, using tools like Figure 1.
⚡ What are related ASTM standards?
Related standards include D5447, D5490, D5609, D5610, D5611, D5718, and D6025.
📌 Is the standard mandatory?
No, it offers options and does not recommend a specific course of action. It must be used with professional judgment and cannot replace education or experience.