Measuring Flow Rate in Crystalline Bedrock Wells Using the Dissolved Oxygen Alteration Method.
Determination of vertical flow rates in a fractured bedrock well can aid in planning and implementing hydraulic tests, water quality sampling, and improving interpretations of water quality data. Although flowmeters are highly accurate in flow rate measurement, the high cost and logistics may be limiting. In this study the dissolved oxygen alteration method (DOAM) is expanded upon as a low-cost alternative to determine vertical flow rates in crystalline bedrock wells. The method entails altering the dissolved oxygen content in the wellbore through bubbler aeration, and monitoring the vertical advective movement of the dissolved oxygen over time. Measurements were taken for upward and downward flows, and under ambient and pumping conditions. Vertical flow rates from 0.06 to 2.30 Lpm were measured. To validate the method, flow rates determined with the DOAM were compared to pump discharge rates and found to be in agreement within 2.5%.
Sarah A
SA
Vitale
Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, University of Connecticut, 1376 Storrs Road, Storrs, CT, 06269.
Gary A
GA
Robbins
D004784:Environmental Monitoring; D060587:Groundwater; D010100:Oxygen; D014872:Water Movements; D060986:Water Wells
D010100:Oxygen