The Application of Step-Drawdown Pumping Tests for Determining Well Losses in Consolidated Rock Aquifers

Abstract

The concept of a step -drawdown test was first introduced by Jacob, and further modifications in the technique were made by Rorabaugh. Analysis of step -drawdown test data enables the quantification of the components of drawdown due to formation or aquifer loss, and due to well losses in a pumped well. This technique has been used to test approximately 100 wells that were drilled in crystalline and basalt formations in central India. Test data have been analyzed by Rorabaugh's method and by a graphical method, and the results of a number of tests are presented and discussed. Anomalies in the test analysis often proved helpful for interpreting aquifer irregularities. In general, the well loss constant decreases with an increase in specific capacity and the aquifer loss constant decreases with increasing transmissivity. Significant reductions in specific capacity during a step test occur in wells with high well losses. An attempt is made to quantify the well losses in a consolidated rock well, and a number of practical applications of step -drawdown tests are discussed.