Water is the lifeblood of any construction project, and in today’s world, sustainable and reliable water sources are more critical than ever. As construction professionals, we need to be aware of alternative water sourcing. This is where bore wells come into the picture. Bore wells offer a way to tap into underground water sources. This post will explore what bore wells are, how they work, and their importance in modern construction practices.
What is a Bore Well?
A bore well, also known simply as a bore, is a narrow hole drilled into the earth to access groundwater. Unlike traditional wells, which are often dug by hand, bores are created using drilling machinery. Typically, these bores have a small diameter, usually around 4 or 6 inches. A pump is then placed at the bottom to bring the water to the surface. This method offers several advantages over traditional wells, one of which is a lower risk of accidents, as children or animals cannot fall into the narrow opening.
How Deep Should a Bore Well Be?
The depth of a bore well can vary greatly depending on the local geology. A typical bore might range from 20 to 50 meters deep. In areas with limestone formations, it’s not uncommon for bores to extend to 130 meters or more. The key is to reach the water table, which is the level of permanent water in the ground.
- Alluvial Deposits: In areas with alluvial deposits (clay and soil), bores are drilled through these layers.
- Limestone Areas: Limestone areas often have fissures and cavities that allow water to flow more freely, leading to a deeper water table.
The Filtration Advantage
One of the significant benefits of using bore wells is that they often provide naturally filtered water. As water seeps down through the earth, it is naturally filtered. The deeper the water source, the cleaner it tends to be. However, it’s important to note that this is not always the case and water quality testing is important. It’s important to consider potential sources of pollution, especially man-made ones.
Bore Well Installation
Installing a bore well involves a few key steps:
- Site Selection: Choose a site away from potential pollution sources such as septic tanks.
- Electrical Supply: Ensure a nearby electrical supply to power the pump.
- Plumbing and Storage: Plan for plumbing to your house or construction site, including a storage tank if needed.
- Drilling and Sleeving: Drill a hole and insert a pipe (or sleeve) to seal the sides of the bore. The sleeve shouldn’t extend to the bottom of the bore, allowing water to seep in.
- Water Source: Finding a water source is important, and while water diviners are still around, it is now more common to do hydrogeological surveys to ensure there is enough water at the location. Aquifers are a good source of water, but may have faster flowing water which could have a higher risk of pollution.
Pumping Solutions
Getting the water out of a bore well requires the right kind of pump. The type of pump depends on the depth of the bore:
- Standard Water Pumps: Suitable for wells less than 5 meters deep. These pumps can suck water up but may need priming and a non-return valve to prevent water flowing back down.
- Jet Pumps: These are used for bores between 5 and 20 meters deep, where a standard pump is not strong enough.
- Submersible Pumps: When the bore exceeds 20 meters, specialized submersible pumps are required. These cylindrical pumps are placed at the bottom of the bore and push water upwards. Submersible pumps need to be very powerful because of the water pressure, and a bore well of 130m may need up to 5.5 kilowatts of electrical power.
Bore Wells in Today’s Construction
In modern construction, the need for reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable water sources is critical. Bore wells offer a viable solution, especially in areas where access to government-supplied water is inconsistent or unreliable. They can provide water for various purposes, such as:
- Concrete Mixing: Essential for construction projects.
- Dust Control: Keeping construction sites safe and clean.
- Sanitation: Providing water for toilets and other facilities.
By incorporating bore wells into construction projects, we can reduce reliance on potentially contaminated surface water and ensure a consistent supply for all project needs.
Conclusion
Bore wells are a significant source of water in the modern world. They offer a sustainable, filtered water source that is increasingly important in construction, particularly for those who want to reduce their reliance on local sources and ensure a consistent supply of water for their project. When planned and installed properly, bore wells are an asset that provides long term benefits.
