The influence of well hydraulics on the spatial distribution of well incrustations

In many cases, the operation of wells is hampered by the formation of mineral incrustations. From field studies, it is known that the distribution of incrustations in wells is quite inhomogeneous. Flow models were calculated to assess the hydraulic background of this phenomenon. For horizontal flow, the screen section facing the natural flow direction receives the majority of the total inflow. This phenomenon increases with increasing natural gradients of flow. The vertical distribution of water intake is also quite inhomogeneous. In partially penetrating wells, the uppermost part of the screen receives much more inflow than the deeper screen sections. These flow inhomogenities involve elevated flow velocities and may cause increased influx of shallow, oxygenated water, all conditions favorable for incrustation growth. Field investigations on incrusting wells clearly show that the identified screen areas of elevated flow are indeed much more prone to incrustation deposition. Such sections require more attention during rehabilitations. A suction flow control device can help to homogenize the inflow but can cause elevated entrance loss when affected by incrustation buildup itself.