Formations

Packer Testing Program Design and Management

Abstract:

Hydraulic testing using wireline deployed water-inflated packers is becoming a common practice for groundwater characterization at mining sites. Packers, designed for diamond drilling, allow for faster, deeper, and more accurate types of testing conducted concurrently with existing coring programs. Designing and managing these testing programs requires planning, flexibility, and consideration of available methods and equipment options. This presentation explores and provides critical examination of advantages and disadvantages of the following options: 1) single or straddle packer testing, 2) injection, shut-in, withdrawal or falling head techniques, 3) discrete interval or cumulative testing, and discusses design consideration for planning a testing program.

Citation:

Swanson, E.E. and B.C. Titone. "Packer Testing Program Design and Management," in Proceedings, International Mine Water Association 2013 Reliable Mine Water Technology (Golden, 2013). 2013.

Authors:

Eric Swanson