AirBurst Technology
Frequently Asked Questions
What well performance improvement can I expect?
While the typical goal is to restore the wells original capacity, a 50% to 100% additional increase in the specific capacity at a given flow rate is often attained but depends on many factors. Well design or construction methods, ineffective original development, structural deterioration, well over pumping or neglect, previous rehabilitation attempts, are only a few of the issues which can affect the restoration process. We highly recommend the use of Airburst for a well’s initial development to maximize the original efficiency and performance, followed by the use of Airburst during rehabilitation sequences to maintain a wells yield.
Can AirBurst damage my well?
AirBurst operators undergo extensive training to first do a proper survey of the well's condition, then fine-tune the treatment settings. Firing pressures are precisely calculated given different well construction materials, screen type, diameter, age/condition, and depth, which is a level of control that other air impulse guns do not have. Even with extensive analysis of well data and video logs, AirBurst can expose previously undetected structural problems that are best to address while the pump is already out of the well so the onsite contractor can keep them from becoming larger issues later.
Can AirBurst® fix wells that produce sand?
Because AirBurst® can be directed to every inch of the well screen or well bore, sand issues can be addressed and cured at the exact source point by concentrated development to disrupt sand channeling and realign the gravel filter, something only AirBurst® can do.
Can AirBurst® decrease the capacity of a well?
In fine sand and gravel wells, high pressure bursts can often compact the formation. However, a specialized Airburst technique applying low-pressure pulses can reverse the effect, restoring well yield. Operators are trained to address all down hole occurrences.
What pressure range is used in AirBurst® water well rehabilitation?
AirBurst® operates with a wide range of high pressure—300 to 3,000 psi. This flexibility allows targeted treatment of specific issues such as poor well performance, compacted gravel packs, and clogged screen zones. Larger air guns require 600 psi minimum to keep them sealed and can be operated up to 3000 psi.
Is post-bursting debris removal required after AirBurst® treatment?
Yes. Removing fine material through bailing or airlifting is essential to prevent clogging in the screen openings and restore the natural flow of water. Especially in wells without a sump or where mineral incrustation and gravel pack compaction are present, this step ensures the rehabilitation process is complete and effective.
How does AirBurst® work in rock wells and fractured formations?
Airburst is effective in treating all well formation types. For rock formations, AirBurst® effectively removes encrustation from the walls of the borehole and can specifically target fractures to restore flow of water by concentrating bursting efforts in those areas.
Is there a depth limit for AirBurst® treatment?
No. AirBurst® can be used at any depth, limited only by hydrostatic water pressure and compressor capacity. It's ideal for deep wells needing restoration of flow rates and well yield.
Can AirBurst® be used with chemical treatment?
Absolutely. AirBurst® complements rehabilitation chemicals through surging and mechanical agitation. Airburst can recommend chemistries to address specific mineralogical and bacteriological issues. The use of non-corrosive chemicals can eliminate harm to AirBurst® equipment.
Are permits needed for AirBurst® rehabilitation works?
The user should contact local authorities to confirm. Some regulatory agencies may require permits. The process involves no rehabilitation chemicals or byproducts, making it safe for water safety compliance.
How long does a full AirBurst® treatment take?
The shortest recorded AirBurst® project was five minutes; one burst per foot up and down the screen was all that was required. But the duration will all depend upon the well construction type, plugging concerns and length of the treatment zone. A deep sandstone well may take up to 40 hours with a burst every 30 seconds while a typically shallow screened well may only take four to six hours depending upon depth.
Is AirBurst® suitable for sensitive applications like fish hatcheries?
Yes. Airburst is a “green” technology relying on only air or nitrogen as a gas source, leaving behind no residuals or byproducts. Airburst has been used in many hatcheries across the U.S. and beyond.
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