In our last post, we focused on how our dosage calculator is used to determine the amount of BoreSaver needed for your specific application. Now, let’s discuss one of the ways to determine which BoreSaver product is appropriate for your application.
Benefits of a Downhole Video Survey
The best first step you can take ahead of conducting a well rehabilitation is to use a down-hole camera system to conduct a visual inspection of the well. Video evidence can be critical when it comes to correctly identifying the type of problem you are attempting to treat. The images below were obtained via a down-hole survey and the first image conclusively shows the red staining that is characteristic of the presence of iron oxide. Notice the depth readings in the upper corner; a camera system equipped with an onscreen depth counter will provide a specific location of the bio-fouling, making it easier to apply BoreSaver directly to the areas in most need of treatment. The second image reflects the removal of the iron oxide after using BoreSaver Ultra C.
We will cover the features that are necessary when selecting a down-hole camera in our next blog post.
The Value of a Bucket Test
Performing a bucket test is one of the best ways to determine which BoreSaver product or combination of BoreSaver products will be an effective treatment for your application. If you suspect that you have an issue with iron oxide biofouling, BoreSaver Ultra C would be the ideal treatment for eliminating the bio-fouling. If your issue appears to be more mineral encrustation, such as calcium encrustation, BoreSaver IKL Pro is the recommended option for treating the mineral buildup. Both products can be combined to treat manganese encrustation. If you are ever in doubt as to which product will be most effective, remember, if it works in the bucket, it will work downhole.
Performing a Bucket Test
Start by procuring a 5-gallon bucket and a sample of the material you are attempting to treat. In some cases, an easy way to obtain a sample of material is to use a section of the drop pipe or the pump itself.
Place the item inside the 5-gallon bucket and ensure that object is partially submerged in water. If you are attempting to treat iron bacteria bio-fouling, add a cup of BoreSaver Ultra C to the bucket. If there is iron oxide present in the water, the water will turn green as the insoluble iron is converted into soluble iron. If you are treating suspected mineral incrustation, add a cup of BoreSaver IKL to the bucket. If the material is mineral based, you will start to see fizzing as the chemical reacts with the mineral and produces CO2. If there are multiple problems that exist downhole, you may need a combination of Ultra C and IKL Pro. Allow the material in the bucket to sit for between 30 and 60 minutes and evaluate the results at the end of the test.
The video below is a demonstration of a bucket test using BoreSaver IKL Pro on suspected mineral incrustation, notice the reaction taking place that indicates it is a mineral based clogging:
Once the test is complete, dispose of the contents of the bucket in accordance with local discharge regulations.
A bucket test is an efficient way of ensuring that BoreSaver will be an effective treatment for your well rehabilitation project. If you would like more information about conducting a bucket test or to discuss your specific well rehabilitation project, please reach out via the “Contact Us” page or call our office at (559) 251-1396.