Characterization of Zonal Variation of Water Chemistry in Deep Groundwater Through Application of Miniaturized Technology

Over the past decade there has been an increasing need to explore, develop, and monitor deeper groundwater supplies. Critical upfront data to support these efforts comes from test holes and existing wells utilized for groundwater production, agriculture, industry, and monitoring. Impediments to characterize the water chemistry for these depths include the limited lift capacity of small pumps, pump size, and the cost, mobilization, and labor expense of employing large-scale pumps to obtain groundwater samples from depths greater than 1000 feet below ground surface (bgs).

A new class of miniaturized pumps is used on a routine basis over the past10 years with continued improvements. Ranging in in size from 3/4˝ OD to 2˝ OD, these pumps have lift capabilities in excess of 3000 feet bgs. The smallest of this pump class is currently being used to enter groundwater production wells without having to remove line shaft pump turbines and large electric submersible pumps, using the small diameter to successfully catheterize these wells and reach required sampling depths. We will present and explore the advantages and limitations of such devices and provide real world examples from the groundwater and mining industries.