Well Inspection

​A drilled well is a type of water well that is created by drilling a borehole into the ground using specialized drilling equipment. It is one of the most common methods of constructing water wells, particularly in areas where groundwater is accessed from deep underground.
The process of drilling a well typically involves the following steps:

1. Site Selection: A suitable location for the well is chosen based on factors such as water availability, geological conditions, and proximity to potential sources of contamination.
2. Drilling Rig Setup: A drilling rig, which is a heavy-duty machine specifically designed for drilling boreholes, is brought to the site. The rig is positioned over the drilling location, and necessary safety precautions are taken.
3. Drilling Process: The drilling rig uses a variety of drilling techniques and equipment to penetrate the ground. Depending on the geology of the area, different drilling methods may be employed, such as rotary drilling, percussion drilling, or auger drilling. The drilling process continues until the desired depth is reached.
4. Casing Installation: Once the borehole is drilled, a casing, typically made of PVC or steel, is inserted into the hole to prevent it from collapsing. The casing also helps to protect the well from contamination and stabilize the well structure.
5. Grouting: After the casing is installed, the annular space between the casing and the borehole walls is filled with a sealing material called grout. Grouting helps to provide a secure seal and prevents the migration of contaminants from the surrounding formations.
6. Well Development: The newly drilled well is typically developed to enhance its productivity. This involves removing drilling mud, fine sediments, and other debris from the well through processes such as surging, airlifting, or high-pressure jetting. Well development helps to improve the flow of water into the well.
7. Pump Installation: Once the well is drilled and developed, a pump and associated equipment, such as a pressure tank, may be installed to extract and deliver water from the well to the desired location.

Drilled wells can access groundwater from various aquifers and are capable of reaching significant depths, allowing access to larger water resources. They provide a reliable and long-lasting water supply when properly constructed and maintained. It is essential to follow local regulations and obtain necessary permits when drilling a well to ensure compliance and the protection of groundwater resources.

​A driven well, also known as a sand-point well or a shallow well, is a type of water well that is constructed by driving a small-diameter pipe or casing into the ground. It is a relatively simple and cost-effective method of accessing shallow groundwater.
The process of installing a driven well involves the following steps:

1. Site Selection: A suitable location for the well is chosen, considering factors such as proximity to potential water sources and the depth of the water table. Driven wells are typically used in areas with high water tables.
2. Equipment Setup: A small-diameter pipe or casing, usually made of PVC or galvanized steel, is prepared for driving. A driving mechanism or a heavy mallet is used to force the pipe into the ground.
3. Pipe Driving: The pipe or casing is driven into the ground using repetitive pounding or hammering. This can be done manually with a driving mechanism or with the aid of a portable or machine-operated driver. The driving process continues until the desired depth is reached or until the pipe encounters a layer of solid rock or dense soil that cannot be penetrated.
4. Well Development: Once the pipe is driven into the ground, the well is typically developed to improve its water flow and productivity. This may involve removing sediment and debris from the well through surging or jetting techniques.
5. Screen Installation: In some cases, a screen or filter assembly may be attached to the lower end of the driven pipe to allow water to enter the well while preventing the entry of sediment or debris.
6. Grouting and Sealing: To prevent surface water contamination, the annular space around the driven pipe is usually sealed with a sealing material such as bentonite clay or grout.

Driven wells are generally suitable for accessing shallow groundwater resources, typically up to 30 meters (100 feet) deep. They are commonly used for domestic purposes, irrigation, or as a supplemental water source. However, it is important to note that the yield of driven wells may be limited compared to deeper drilled wells, and the quality of the water can be influenced by the surrounding soil and potential surface contaminants. Regular testing and maintenance are necessary to ensure the water’s safety and the well’s proper functioning.

​A dug well and a bored well are both types of water wells that are manually constructed by excavating the ground to access groundwater. While they share similarities in their construction method, there are some differences between the two.

1. Dug Well: A dug well, also known as an excavation well, is created by manually excavating the ground to create a large hole or pit. This is typically done using shovels, picks, or other hand tools. The well is typically wider at the top and narrows down as it goes deeper. Dug wells are often constructed in areas where the water table is relatively high, allowing groundwater to be reached within a reasonable depth.
2. Bored Well: A bored well, also referred to as an augered well, is constructed by using an auger or drilling machine to create a narrow borehole into the ground. The auger is rotated into the ground, cutting through the soil and rock to create the well. Bored wells are usually narrower in diameter compared to dug wells and can reach greater depths.

Both dug wells and bored wells are typically lined with materials such as bricks, stones, or concrete to prevent the walls from collapsing and to protect the water from potential contamination. They rely on groundwater stored in the surrounding soil and are suitable for accessing water in areas with shallow water tables or moderate groundwater depths.
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It is important to note that while these types of wells can be effective in certain situations, they may have limitations in terms of water quantity and vulnerability to contamination. It is advisable to have water quality testing conducted regularly and to ensure proper maintenance and protection of the well to ensure the safety and sustainability of the water supply.