Disposal Well Problems in Chicago and Bakersfield Areas

The disposal of industrial liquid wastes is becoming increasingly important in recent environmental protection activity, and the subterranean disposal of such wastes will receive more attention. As the result of the writer's experience with two such wells, this paper proposes that the consultant for the development of such wells obtain advice from experts in all pertinent disciplines, with well drillers and all suppliers of services and materials for such well construction. Published data on existing water-flood wells in the region can supply approximate predictions of geologic formations suitable for disposal, and probable performance of injection well. The presence of the well designer is required at the well site during construction. Conditions arise demanding instant revision of original design; delay incurs costly driller's waiting time. Aluminum pipe casing window cases off lower capacity disposal zones as reserves for future needs. A combined injection tube and well casing in the form of plastic-lined steel pipe was employed.