Reverse Circulation Drilling
Efficient for creating large-diameter boreholes in unconsolidated formations. Provides uncontaminated samples and excellent borehole stability
Artesian Boreholes
Managing Pressure and Harnessing Potential
About
Artesian Conditions
Artesian boreholes present both opportunities and challenges in drilling. When managed correctly, they provide a sustainable water supply, but if encountered unexpectedly, they can cause significant disruption to a project.
At Igne, we are experts in handling both expected and unexpected artesian conditions, using advanced techniques to control pressure and harness its benefits. We have even solved artesian issues remotely, once advising on an artesian strike in America from our base in Wales!
Explainer
What are Artesian Boreholes?
An artesian borehole taps into a confined aquifer where groundwater is under pressure.
This pressure can cause water to rise in the borehole, reaching the surface without the need for pumping. When this occurs, the borehole is classified as a "flowing artesian well".
Artesian conditions arise when an aquifer is confined between impermeable layers of rock or clay, creating a build-up of hydraulic pressure.
These boreholes can provide a natural, sustainable water source for agricultural, industrial, and domestic applications. However, if artesian pressure is not properly managed, it can lead to uncontrolled water flow, site flooding, and environmental issues.
The Risks
What Happens If You Encounter Unexpected Artesian Pressure?
If artesian conditions are not identified in advance, drilling into a confined aquifer can cause an uncontrolled release of water under pressure.
This can result in:
- Site flooding that halts progress and damages surrounding infrastructure
- Erosion & Ground Instability, leading to costly remediation work
- Environmental Issues, such as water wastage and contamination risks
This is why proper planning, risk assessment, and expert intervention are crucial when dealing with artesian boreholes.
Igne specialises in identifying and managing artesian conditions before they become a problem, ensuring projects remain on track and within budget.
Effective management
How to Manage Artesian Conditions
Whether artesian pressure is expected or encountered unexpectedly, there are several methods to control and manage it effectively.
- Sealing & Well Design
Installing well casings, packers, and control valves ensures that artesian pressure is properly contained. - Pressure Grouting
This technique helps to seal boreholes and prevent uncontrolled water flow. - Flow Control Systems
Fitting boreholes with controlled outlets allows for the harnessing of artesian flow while maintaining stability.
Use of Weighted Drilling Muds. By Weighting the drilling muds to overcome the upward force of the artesian pressure, the column of mud in the borehole will allow the borehole to be drilled whilst overcoming the artesian flow.
Igne’s experienced team employs the latest drilling techniques to ensure artesian boreholes remain safe, sustainable, and effective for their intended purpose.
The Causes
What Causes Artesian Pressure?
Artesian pressure occurs when groundwater is confined between impermeable layers, creating a pressurised environment. The key factors contributing to artesian conditions include:
- Confined Aquifers
Layers of rock or clay trap groundwater under pressure. - Hydraulic Head
Difference in elevation between the recharge area and borehole location causes water to rise when tapped. - Geological Formations
Some regions are naturally more prone to artesian conditions due to their subsurface geology.
Understanding these factors is crucial for predicting artesian conditions before drilling begins. Igne’s site investigation services provide the necessary data to assess artesian risks and implement appropriate control measures.
The Experts
Igne’s Expertise in Artesian Boreholes
Igne has extensive experience in managing both expected and unexpected artesian conditions. Our team provides tailored solutions to prevent uncontrolled artesian flows, stabilise boreholes, and harness the natural pressure for sustainable applications.
Our capabilities include:
- Specialist drilling techniques for artesian conditions
- Advanced pressure management solutions
- Emergency remediation for uncontrolled artesian flow
- Comprehensive site investigations to predict artesian pressure
If other contractors have left you in the lurch after hitting artesian pressure, Igne can step in with the expertise to resolve the situation.
Igne can assist with artesian control on all types of projects including ground investigation, geo environmental, water wells and geothermal.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Artesian Boreholes
- What is an artesian borehole?
An artesian borehole is a well that accesses groundwater trapped under pressure within a confined aquifer. If the pressure is high enough, water can rise naturally to the surface.
- What is the difference between an artesian well and a normal well?
A normal well requires pumping to extract water, while an artesian well may allow water to rise naturally due to underground pressure. Flowing artesian wells require careful management to prevent uncontrolled discharge.
- What problems can artesian pressure cause?
If not properly managed, artesian pressure can cause uncontrolled water flow, site flooding, erosion, and structural instability. These risks make it essential to engage specialists like Igne to handle artesian conditions correctly.
- How do you stop an artesian borehole from overflowing?
Techniques such as installing well caps, pressure grouting, and using controlled outlet valves can regulate artesian flow and prevent overflow.
- How can I tell if my site has artesian pressure?
A thorough site investigation, including geological surveys and borehole logging, can identify potential artesian conditions before drilling begins. Igne offers these services to help de-risk projects.
- What should I do if I hit unexpected artesian pressure?
If you encounter artesian pressure unexpectedly, immediate intervention is needed. Igne provides emergency response services to control the flow and stabilise the site. This can include advice and method statements as a consultant or can include attendance on site as a contractor.
The Next Step
Need Help with Artesian Boreholes? Contact Igne Today
If you are planning a borehole project in an area with potential artesian pressure, or if you’ve hit artesian conditions unexpectedly, Igne has the expertise to help. Our specialist drilling teams can take on any challenge, ensuring safe, efficient, and controlled artesian borehole installations.
Don’t let artesian pressure disrupt your project.
Get in touch with Igne today to discuss your drilling requirements and find out how we can provide the expert support you need.
Artesian Boreholes
Specially designed to access confined aquifers under pressure. Igne offers complete design, drilling and testing services.
Angle Boreholes
Used where vertical access is limited or to intercept specific targets such as old mine workings or structural features. Can be cored or open holed depending on project requirements.
Drilling with Mud
Supports borehole stability and facilitates drilling in soft or variable ground. Suitable for a range of geotechnical and environmental applications.
Large Diameter Boreholes
For water supply, dewatering, geothermal energy or structural support. Igne has the equipment and expertise to drill large diameters efficiently and safely.
Deep Boreholes
Our teams are experienced in drilling to significant depths, whether for monitoring, exploration, energy or environmental purposes.
Acidisation
Used to improve borehole performance by dissolving scale, mineral deposits or blockages within the borehole or surrounding formation to improve the yield.
Hydrofracturing
Enhances borehole yield by opening fractures in the surrounding rock to increase water flow.
Dewatering
Design and installation of boreholes to lower groundwater levels for construction or mining projects.
Monitoring Boreholes
For groundwater sampling, piezometric monitoring or other environmental assessments. Igne handles design, drilling, installation and instrumentation
Vibrating Wire Piezos
Installation of vibrating wire piezos for accurate measurement of pore water pressure and ground movement.
Fibre Optics
Deployment of fibre optic sensors within boreholes for monitoring temperature, strain or acoustic signals.
Seismic Monitoring
Drilling and installation of boreholes to house seismic monitoring equipment, supporting geotechnical and structural assessments.
Deep Wireline Coring
Recovery of continuous core samples from depth for geological, geotechnical or environmental analysis. In Geobor S, PQ, NQ and HQ.
Gas Control
Design and drilling of boreholes for gas extraction, venting or monitoring, often in brownfield or landfill sites.
Deep Soakaways
Installation of deep boreholes for sustainable drainage and infiltration of surface water.
Decommissioning
Safe and compliant sealing and decommissioning of redundant boreholes to prevent environmental risk.
Specialist Plant & In Hole Equipment Hire
Provision of advanced drilling equipment and downhole tools to support client and contractor projects.
Recovery & Fishing Trouble Shooting
Expert services to retrieve lost or stuck equipment from boreholes and troubleshoot downhole challenges.