Miniatuization of the flowing fluid electric conductivity loggingtec hnique

• Published in: Ground water Vol. 44; no. 5
• Main Authors: Su, Grace W., Quinn, Nigel W.T., Cook, Paul J., Shipp, William
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 19.10.2005
• Subjects: 13; AQUIFERS; DEPTH; DRINKING WATER; ELECTRIC CONDUCTIVITY; HYDRAULIC CONDUCTIVITY; HYDRAULICS; IRRIGATION; MINIATURIZATION; SALINITY; SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION; WATER; WATER USE
• ISSN: 0017-467X; 1745-6584

An understanding of both the hydraulic properties of the aquifer and the depth distribution of salts is critical for evaluating the potential of groundwater for conjunctive water use and for maintaining suitable groundwater quality in agricultural regions where groundwater is used extensively for irrigation and drinking water. The electrical conductivity profiles recorded in a well using the flowing fluid electric conductivity logging (FEC logging) method can be analyzed to estimate interval specific hydraulic conductivity and estimates of the salinity concentration with depth. However, irrigation wells that are common in agricultural regions have limited access into them because these wells are still in operation, and the traditional equipment used for FEC logging cannot fit through the small access pipe intersecting the well. A modified, miniaturized FEC logging technique was developed such that this logging method could be used in wells with limited access. In addition, a new method for injecting water over the entire screened interval of the well was developed to reduce the time required to perform FEC logging. Results of FEC logging using the new methodology and miniaturized system in two irrigation wells are also summarized.