Patent ID: 6146104
Filing Date: 2000-11-14
Classification: B09C,E21B,F04F

Abstract:
A well structure for removing fluids from a subterranean formation having an aquifer contaminated by the presence of organic compounds in fluids therein, said aquifer including a water table spaced below the ground surface, said well structure comprising:a well casing extending downwardly from the ground surface to a location below the water table, said well casing including perforations permeable to liquids present in the formation and positioned so that liquids from the water table may enter said casing through the perforations to establish a liquid level within the casing;a pneumatic pump located in the well casing having a pump chamber and an inlet for introducing fluids into the chamber from within the casing;first conduit means in flow communication with the pump chamber and a vacuum source for evacuating air from the pump chamber to induce a flow of liquid from the well casing into the pump chamber;second conduit means in flow communication with a head space in the casing above the liquid level and a vacuum source for applying a vacuum to the head space;third conduit means in flow communication with the pump chamber and a source of pressurized air for delivering pressurized air into the pump chamber;fourth conduit means in flow communication with the pump chamber for conducting liquid from the pump chamber in response to pressurized air delivered into the chamber through said third conduit means; andcontrol means for selectively connecting said first and third conduit means in flow communication with the pump chamber.