ISSN:
1745-6584
Source:
Blackwell Publishing Journal Backfiles 1879-2005
Topics:
Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
,
Geosciences
Notes:
The purpose of well screens and gravel packs is to maintain open access within the aquifer ensuring that thorough development of the well is not impeded by sand. Where a well draws on unconsolidated sands and gravels, or other friable materials, the installation of a screen and pack is essential.The use of correctly designed equipment is important and this paper represents a review of the diverse types available, but does not set out to make any recommendations.Well screen designs should incorporate the following features:〈list xml:id="l1" style="custom"〉1Minimum entrance velocity.2Maximum open area of screen.3Correct design of slots to minimize blockages.4Slot size should match aquifer or gravel pack medium.5Screen material should be corrosion resistant.6Screen should allow for periodic maintenance.Commercial well screens fall into various categories according to their slot designs. A slot shape, offering the maximum open area consistent with strength, is a priority and the material used in screen manufacture has an important bearing on this. Blockage of screens may be caused by chemical deposition formed by precipitation or corrosion products, and coated screens have been introduced seeking to inhibit this.Gravel packs should include the following design features:〈list xml:id="l2" style="custom"〉1Sand free operation after development.2Give lowest possible resistance to permeation.3Offer low entrance velocities.4Be resistant to chemical attack and have an efficient service life.The gravel pack should ensure that the completed well operates free of sand; thus the particle size of the pack depends upon the particle size of the aquifer. Gravel pack design should be guided by standard sieve analysis.It is evident from the variety of claims made for well screens and gravel packs that further research is necessary. It is suggested that the following points need further investigation:〈list xml:id="l3" style="custom"〉•. Improved design of nonblocking opening.•. Design consideration of screen resistance to chemical attack.•. Best type of gravel and optimum thickness of the pack.•. Head loss through the screen and pack.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1745-6584.1970.tb01297.x
Permalink