Keep Up With Low Flow Sampling Standards: Low Flow Sampling Made Easy!

 

What is low flow sampling?

In low flow sampling, a low volume of well water is purged at a low rate, instead of the typical high rate removal of three to five well volumes. Proactive recommends the use of their pumps in dedicated well sampling equipment applications to maximize the quality, efficiency, and repeatability of groundwater sampling events.

What are the advantages of low flow sampling?

Low flow sampling reduces the amount of purge water removed from a well. Less purge volume means less contaminated water to dispose of.

Low flow sampling reduces well drawdown and disturbance and agitation of the surrounding formation. Less well disturbance results in lower sample turbidity and less variability in sample results.

The use of dedicated sampling equipment means less time in the field, less chance of cross contamination between wells, and less waste of disposable materials.

What equipment is needed for low flow sampling?

A purge and sampling device capable of pumping at consistent, low flow rates without agitating water in the well or altering sample quality. Proactive manufacturers over 10 pumps with varying pumping depth and flow control capabilities. The use of dedicated Proactive pumps usually pays for themselves in a short period of time over traditional purging and sampling methods.

A multi-parameter water quality measurement instrument with a flow cell.

A water level measurement device to measure draw down.

Tubing to connect to the pump and flow cell.

How will low flow sampling affect regulatory approval of my existing sampling program?

Contact your state or local regulatory agency for guidelines on their acceptance of low flow sampling as an alternative to traditional sampling methods.