The greatest influence on the efficient performance of a well is the design and construction of the well screen. The well screen serves as the intake section of the well allowing and is considered adequate only when it allows sand-free water to flow into the well with a minimum loss of head. A properly designed well screen combines the highest percentage of open area with adequate strength to resist the forces covered in the previous section concerning well casing.

Features of a properly designed well screen include:

1. Slotted openings, preferably continuous and uninterrupted around the circumference of the screen
2. Close spacing of slot openings for maximum open area
3. V-shaped slots that widen inward
4. Single metal construction to avoid galvanic corrosion from two different metals coming in contact with one another.
5. Maximum open area consistent with strength requirements
6. Ample strength to resist forces to which the screen is subjected.

In unconsolidated formations, however, screens are installed to prevent aquifer material from being pumped along with the water.

V-Shaped Slots

Openings shaped like a "v" that open toward the inside of the well tend to allow the particles that are just barely smaller than the width of the slot pass. In other shapes of openings, these particles would get caught in the screen and clog it.

Continue	© Copyright
Return to Water Well Design