Friday, April 22, 2011

Different Types Of Water Well Drilling Equipment And Methods

By Merle Nixon


When looking for property, the first consideration should be whether or not the location has access to fresh water. Some properties have water lines already prepped and ready. Others require that a well water system be installed. When considering installing a well, it is a good idea to be aware of the varieties of water well drilling equipment for different soil types.

All soils are not created equally. Of the six categories of equipment, each one is tailored to work in a specific soil condition. Other factors that must be considered are the cost of the equipment and the availability for getting it done quickly. Also, the rights of access must be available.

The percussion cable tool is one of the best methods to reach greater depths. They can be up to 1000 feet deep and 12 to 18 inches in diameter. This system has a bit that is attached to a cable. The bit grinds the layers of rock beneath the surface. A disadvantage to this system is that it is the slowest method possible. However, the advantage is that it can bore through every type of geological formation.

The next method is known as the rotary cable tool. This system uses a rotating bit as well, but has fluid pumped into the cable which continually clears debris. Depth can be up to 1000 feet, and the diameter is larger at 24 inches. A disadvantage is that it does not work in certain rock. An advantage is that it is the fastest system.

Using a high powered jetted water spray with added chloride, jetted drilling is quick and easy. It is not very efficient for a deep hole, however. The water stream is only capable of reaching the depth of approximately 50 feet. Unfortunately, it does little to no good in rocky soil.

Boring is a great method for getting through boulders and strong rock. An earth auger is attached to a rotating shaft, forcing the hole to a depth of approximately 125 feet. However, the augers make it difficult to seal the shaft effectively making it prone to contamination.

Driven wells are created by a device that pounds the earth with an empty pipe. Thus, the hole is the width of the diameter of the pipe used. Using going no deeper than 25 feet, these are the cheapest and easiest to create. However, it is impossible to drive through rocks and can get easily contaminated.

The classic dug well is probably the most known method of water well drilling equipment. The hole is dug using a shovel or mechanical tool until water is found. The hole is then lined with large stones, usually limestone if it is available, and cemented to seal to shaft. These wells have proven that they are no match for drought conditions, considering the well is not usually deep enough to have tapped a permanent supply.

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