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 Direct push methods are popular
because of:
- The Speed and Efficiency
of Data Generation
- Elimination of
Investigative Wastes
- Lower Costs
ICON developed
a subsurface characterization system considerably more advanced as compared
to common Direct Push Methods, the basis of which include:
- Patented "Missing
Link" Direct Push Tools. Patented procedure that relies on "Push-Push"
to set the sampling screen, as opposed to the common "Push and
Retract" methods.
-
Direct Push Wells (DPWs). Results in installation of permanent wells
installed using the "Push-Push" procedure.
- Through-casing
Geophysical Logging for lithology and water zone characterization.
- The ability to
use the tools with standard locally-available drilling rigs.
- Reliable system
for grouting push holes while retracting the sampling tools.
- Experienced geologists
rather than drilling contractors to ensure quality data.
 Missing
Link Discrete Samplers – For a Representative Grab Sample without potential
"carrydown". Unlike
other push probe technology that rely on "push and retract"
to set the tool and open the screen, the Missing Link suite of tools are
pushed to the desired depth, and the screen is hammered out ahead of the
assembly to allow sampling, thus insuring a good seal without leakage
along the annular seal. Disturbed but highly representative soil samples
can be acquired using a soil core barrel within the screen.
Patented
Missing Link Samplers are "Screening" Tools Used to Acquire
a "Point-in-time" Sample; once the sample is acquired, the tool
is filled with grout and the hole is grouted as the tools are withdrawn:
- Pushed over 2000
times with excellent results.
- Can be utilized
using conventional and specialized drilling (push or hydraulic hammer)
equipment.
- Discrete monitoring
well and piezometer installations without generating costly borehole
cuttings.
- Use and experience
has allowed several design modifications resulting in specialized tools
for silty clay, flowing silts, and sand zones.
Direct-Push Wells (DPWs) for a Permanent Well Installed using Direct
Push Methods
Direct-Push Well Technology, developed by ICON, and
demonstrated at the US Naval Station Mayport, Florida. This technology
uses conventional drilling equipment to push (up to 80 feet in depth)
a permanent monitoring well with screen and the annular space properly
grouted. The DPWs are useful for hydraulic head measurement, groundwater
sampling, and aquifer testing. Lithology is characterized through sealed
casing using geophysical logging. Soil cuttings and exposure to hazardous
conditions are eliminated. Costs are dependent on site-specific geology,
but average 50% to 80% lower than conventional methods. Water samples
are as good or better than samples from conventionally-installed wells.
P-6-2 direct push well diagram
The direct push rig and
Failing F-2 rig offers versatility and a guarantee
to get the sample regardless of subsurface conditions.
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