The costs and difficulties with installation and use of long-term discrete interval ground water sampling systems currently on the market can be overwhelming. The new Shedd-Weikel Interval Sampling System (SWISS) is a cost effective solution that is easy to install and maintain, allows for checking of the seals between sampling zones, and avoids the common pitfalls of other technologies. The installation and seal testing methodology of the SWISS provides confidence in the discrete analytical data collected. The SWISS is a well suited solution to the multiple interval sampling and isolation problem.

The SWISS is simple, taking little more effort than typical well installation.  Casing is placed into the boring along with screen at the intervals to be discretely monitored, and the well is constructed of gravel pack within the screened zones and intermediate seals between the screened zones in the annular space.  A custom designed core system constructed of rigid stem with rubber cup swabs are then placed into the well.  The stem is ported at each screened zone in order to allow for sample collection and swab cups are placed above and below the screened zones.  The SWISS allows for a testable seal within the well, and provides the predictable characteristics of a standard well structure.  Flexible tubing is installed from each interval to the surface to allow for quick and efficient sampling from each zone.  Optional in-line components can be installed for various applications.  Due to the rugged construction of the core system if a component does fail, the core can be removed for quick and easy replacement or repair.

The SWISS provides a simple, cost effective solution for discrete zone sampling and isolation, in an easy to install, easy to sample system offering consistent results, with applications for a wide range of hydrogeologic environments.