Bio Fouling in Boreholes

Those of us who often remove pumps ( or similar equipment ) from boreholes will be all too aware of the unpleasant task this can be when everything comes out of the well covered in a foul-smelling orange iron oxide slime or black manganese deposit.

Fouling of this nature will build up whenever naturally occurring bacteria in the environment ( IRB ) convert dissolved minerals into solids ranging from gelatinous slimes to solid caked deposits. Whilst these may be disagreeable for the operatives they are, more importantly, slowly clogging up the system – causing vast reductions in efficiency and costing money. ( Of course , in severe cases, this can become obvious long before a new borehole is serviced and the pump is extracted for the first time to reveal the cause.)

This fouling is an entirely natural process so it cannot be prevented or stopped completely. Its effects can be controlled, though, and it can be totally dispersed from an affected borehole in an environmentally friendly way. By treating at appropriate periods the efficiency of the system can be maintained and running costs kept to a minimum.

I-GON is a powerful organic acid formulation which will penetrate every part of the borehole and pump in-situ to remove even the most severe iron oxide or manganese contamination. Unlike chlorine, or other chemicals sometimes used for fouling removal, I-GON will not damage pump or piping components and has no residual effect on the environment.

If a borehole has a known history of iron / manganese bacteria contamination, or water tests indicate that reduced flow is likely to be from this cause, it is a simple procedure to treat the well. After calculating the necessary dose ( based on the size/depth of the borehole and on the severity of the problem ) the required quantity of I-GON powder should be released into the top of the borehole where it will dissolve while sinking through the water. When the powder has had time to dissolve fully the pump can be used to mix the solution thoroughly and circulate it through all affected areas of the bore, pump and plant. The resultant chemical reaction will convert the iron oxide or manganese solids into a greenish effluent solution which can be disposed of safely.

Comprehensive instructions for use are supplied with every consignment of I-GON.

The photographs clearly show the effect Iron Fouling on groundwater I-GON can remedy this.