General Information

Traditionally, well maintenance is performed in an emergency mode without taking time to understand the true problem.
Monitoring of well and pump performance as well as the scheduling of routine maintenance is not often done.
During well rehabilitation, 50’s vintage chemicals are often poured into a well, surged, and simply pumped to waste
12 hours later. There is little understanding of how well the chemicals did or did not work other than comparing
the pumping rates before and after the project. Little attention is given to the dangers of chemicals to on-site
personnel, the effects of corrosive liquids on well casings or screens and the potential of contaminating aquifers
with non-biodegradable, hazardous chemicals.

Design Water Technologies is changing the direction of well rehabilitation. We promote 1) understanding a problem
before solving it, 2) manufacturing safe chemicals that provide consistent and long lasting results, 3) monitoring these
chemicals during the cleaning process, and 4) disposal of products properly once the project is complete. First, some basics.

Problem Evaluation and Keeping Good Records

It is critical to keep good records of well and pump performance. Yield alone is not a good indicator of well
performance. Changes in yield could be due to pump problems or system change conditions. The only true
method of monitoring well performance is to calculate Specific Capacity (SC) at a certain time of pumping.
Record the Static Water Level ( SWL ), and then the Pumping Water Level ( PWL ) at a consistent pumping time,
(ex. say 30 minutes for domestic wells and an hour for larger diameter wells,) along with the Gallons Per
Minute ( GPM ). Subtract SWL from PWL to obtain Draw Down ( DD ). Divide the GPM by DD to obtain Specific
Capacity or GPM per foot of DD. This is the number to use for comparative purposes to determine declines in
well yield, not the pumping rate only. For example: 32’ PWL-15’ SWL=17 ’ of DD @ 30 minutes pumping 20
GPM. 20 GPM ÷ 17’ DD=1.17 GPM /ft of DD @ 30 minutes.

Always record the Specific Capacity at approximately the same pumping rate and time for a more accurate
comparison. If the pump yield and AMP readings are lower than previous data and the SP is higher, the
pump needs repair. Conversely, if the pumping rate and the SP have declined, the well needs rehabilitation.

Compare all information at least once a year on municipal or industrial wells. Record Specific Capacity on all
new wells and set a target at 60% of the original SP for planned rehabilitation. Check all domestic wells
whenever any maintenance is performed.

If the Specific Capacity declines more than 30-40% , the problem should soon be addressed. It is more
difficult to remedy a plugging problem caused by mineral scale if the specific capacity has declined more
than 40% . It is easier to successfully rehabilitate wells with plugging problems due to slime bacteria, even if
the SP is zero because the plugging is closer to the bore hole and easier to remove.

A decline in the Specific Capacity can be blockage due to 1 ) mineral scale 2 ) slime bacteria 3 ) fine sand or
silt infiltration into a screen area or bore hole 4 ) physical blockage in the bore hole or well screen 5 ) physical
changes in the aquifer itself, ie., reduction in static level and even seismic activity. Chemicals are not always
the solution. Determine if any sand is being pumped which can often be found in pressure tanks, water lines,
or holding tanks. Check the well depth, as there may be several feet of sand or debris in a screen or open
bore hole which can reduce yields. Determine if there is any build-up of hard scale or slime on pumps or
piping systems. Check available water quality information. You cannot make an accurate determination of the
problem without good well records.

We will address mineral scale and slime bacterial problems only in this brochure, as they are the most
common. Understand your problem before designing a solution.

2
 Mineral Scale Problems
Ground water often has high concentrations of dissolved minerals. Natural carbon dioxide (CO2) in water produces carbonic acid,
which keeps minerals in solution. During pumping, a portion of the CO2 is lost through increased velocity and depressurization
causing a portion of the minerals in solution to precipitate as hardened, mineral scale. Temperature changes enhance mineral
precipitation. Sulfate levels less than 70 ppm can precipitate when velocity is extremely low, which happens when the pump is
turned off. A layering effect of the various types of minerals can occur with sulfates on the surface and carbonates beneath.
Sulfate levels greater than 70 ppm can precipitate in the same manner as carbonates.

Field Diagnosis for Mineral Scale

The specific capacity of a well declines slowly and somewhat consistently over several years, i.e., 5-15 years, depending
upon water quality.

*A hard scale is noticed when pulling the pump or in a piping system. The color associated with each type of scale is
as follows:
red/brown = iron black = manganese
green/blue = sulfates white/light brown = calcium

* If you have information on water quality, look for any one or combination of the following:

pH > (greater) 7 iron > 1.0 ppm hardness > 200ppm

sulfates > 20 ppm manganese > .02 ppm

* Bubbling or nodules may be noticed on pumps or pump column and is a sign of corrosion due to either electrochemical
or bacterial activity. If total dissolved solids is greater than 600 ppm, corrosion may be due to galvanic corrosion (electrol-
ysis). When dissimilar metals are placed in water that is highly conductive to electricity, corrosion will occur on low car-
bon or galvanized steel.

* In a video of a well, the scale buildup will be present in sections of screen where water velocity is the highest. Parts of
the screen may be totally clean which is an indication of little or no velocity. (see Figure 1, pg. 10)

Ground water often has high concentrations of dissolved minerals. Natural carbon dioxide (CO2) in water produces carbonic acid,
which keeps minerals in solution. During pumping, a portion of the CO2 is lost through increased velocity and depressurization
causing a portion of the minerals in solution to precipitate as hardened, mineral scale. Temperature changes enhance mineral
precipitation. Sulfate levels less than 70 ppm can precipitate when velocity is extremely low, which happens when the pump is
turned off. A layering effect of the various types of minerals can occur with sulfates on the surface and carbonates beneath.
Sulfate levels greater than 70 ppm can precipitate in the same manner as carbonates.

These deposits may precipitate in screened wells (slotted, bridge slot, louver, or continuous slot well screen) or open bore holes
(fractured rock, sandstone, or limestone). The kind and amount of precipitate will depend upon the severity of water quality and
the use of the well. Over pumping a well or cascading water will increase precipitation. Acids are commonly used to dissolve
these scale deposits and return a well yield.

Different scale deposits react differently to acids. Calcium is the easiest scale to dissolve. When using hydrochloric (Muriatic)
acids (HCI) in high calcium deposits, a violent reaction can occur. This reaction causes overfoaming or an explosion of acid
spewing 20-30’ out of the well. It can create a hazardous cleanup condition since inherent ingredients consist of heavy metals,
i.e., lead, arsenic, zinc, etc. benzenes and other toxic organic compounds (TOCs). Muriatic is also very dangerous to store,
ship, and use in the field. It is a gas by-product of other manufacturing processes, mixed as a liquid. Extreme care must be
taken when working with hydrochloric, as the fumes released are instantaneously lethal. It is very corrosive and is generally not
recommended to use in a well or pipeline for longer than 12-16 hours, even with inhibitors. Inhibitors only last approximately 6-8
hours. HCI will be slower reacting with high concentrations of iron, manganese, and extremely slow reacting with sulfate scale.

Sulfamic acid was developed in the 50’s to more safely dissolve calcium carbonate scale. It is not effective with scales or
decayed organic debris consisting of iron, manganese, or sulfate. It is generally considered much safer than hydrochloric but is
classified as a corrosive product and has shipping limitations.

“Unicid” Granular was developed in 1990 to safely dissolve all scales with the consistency of hydrochloric, but more safely
than sulfamic. It is not corrosive to metal parts or harmful to plastic, so the time working in a well or pipeline is only limited to
dissolving scale and organic debris. This is effectively done by monitoring color and pH to determine when the job is complete.
(see “Field Monitoring...” on pages 12 and 13).
3
Treatment for Mineral Scale
Physical cleaning of wells
A specific amount of chemistry is required to dissolve a certain amount of scale, therefore it is beneficial to physically
remove as much scale as possible prior to chemical treatment. Less product would then be required and it allows
chemicals to more easily penetrate into the formation. Sonic jetting, dry ice, and high energy air pressure are methods
used to fracture hardened scale. These procedures are often used only on large-diameter wells because of the costs
involved. Refer to manufactures recommendations and use qualified personnel to handle explosives. Another method to
remove debris from the inside of the screen is to use a wire brush. This can be made easily with 1/4 to 1/2” steel cable
cut slightly longer than the inside diameter of the casing, and welded horizontally through a piece of pipe with drilled
holes for stability. All debris should be bailed or airlifted out of the well prior to chemical treatment.

Chemical treatment of wells with “Unicid” Granular acid

Tremie line method:
Mineral scale is generally a problem only in the screen area of unconsolidated formations or fracture zones and solution
channels in rock wells. If severe scale is present in the casing, it is advisable to physically remove excess scale by a
wire brush or casing scrapper. Then air lift or bail the debris out of the well prior to chemical treatment. We recommend
that “Unicid” Granular be mixed with water and delivered through a tremie pipe just above the screen or open borehole in a
concentrated form. All types of pipe can be used (PVC, black, or galvanized) as a tremie. Any pump can be used for
mixing and pumping because “Unicid” is not corrosive to metal parts and will not damage pump seals or bearings.

Refer to the dosage chart in Table 1 (page 4) for the recommended amount of “Unicid” Granular product for screened
wells. For example: 8” pipe size, 15’ long screen would require 2.6 lbs/ft of screen x 15’= 39 lbs. Mix the recommended
amount of “Unicid” Granular acid into a tank using two pounds per gallon of water as a maximum mix ratio. The 39 lbs of
“Unicid” Granular should be mixed into 20 gallons of water (39÷2=19.5). If the screen is less than 50’ long, set a tremie pipe
just above the top of screen and pump the acid into it. Displace the acid out of the tremie with plain water. In screens longer
than 50’ or multiple screens, acid should be placed with a tremie throughout the screen area in equal amounts or between a
packer system to localize the acid placement. Development should be started immediately. (see Development, pg 10)

Refer to Table 2 for dosage in consolidated rock wells and multiply by the total footage of the formation. Use a tremie line
to install liquid acid just above the formation. If the formation is thicker than 50’, place the acid in equal increments.
Development should be started immediately.

Pour from surface method:

“Unicid” Granular can be poured from the surface, but if the static water level is shallow and the well deep, the amount
of product can be costly when calculating pounds required per foot of water in the well. Since mineral scale is generally
a problem in the screen area or formation only, it is better to place acid through a tremie line. If you must pour
“Unicid” Granular from the surface, use the dosage shown in Table 2. The recommendations are based on pounds per
foot of water in the well. For example: An 8” well with 15’ of screen, static water level of 10’, and a total depth of 115’
would require 111 lbs. (115’-10=105’ of water in the well x 1.1 lbs/ft of water=111 lbs).

4
 Granular Granular
In screened wells, multiply pounds In rock wells, multiply pounds by
times length of screen. the thickness of aquifer.
Mix as liquid, tremie to screen. Mix as a liquid, tremie to aquifer.
Screen Pounds acid/foot Well Pounds acid/foot
Diameter of screen Diameter of formation
2” 0.50 lbs 2” 0.25 lbs
4” 0.70 lbs 4” 0.30 lbs
5” 1.00 lbs 5” 0.50 lbs
6” 1.50 lbs 6” 0.70 lbs
8” 2.60 lbs 8” 1.10 lbs
10” 4.00 lbs 10” 1.75 lbs
12” 6.00 lbs 12” 2.50 lbs
14” 7.00 lbs 14” 3.00 lbs
16” 9.50 lbs 16” 4.00 lbs
18” 12.00 lbs 18” 5.00 lbs
20” 15.00 lbs 20” 6.25 lbs
24” 23.50 lbs 24” 10.00 lbs
For other diameters of wells: For other diameters of wells:
Calculate total gallons of water in well screen x Calculate gallons of water per foot of casing/bore-
8.33 x 0.12 (12%) x total feet of screen in the well. hole x 8.33 x 0.05 (5%) x total feet of water in well.

Table 1 Table 2

Chemical treatment of wells with “Unicid” Bullets

“Unicid” Bullets are pelletized with the same formulation as “Unicid” Granular. A pelleted product dropped from the surface,
falls to the bottom of the well. “Unicid” Bullets are recommended only for screens shorter than 5’. They should not be
used in longer screens because all the pellets end up at the bottom of the screen. The saturation point is approximately
22%, so all of the pellets may not dissolve without a great deal of development action. Liquid acid weighs 9.5 lbs. per
gallon and can be difficult to move up toward the top of a screen longer than 5’. Scale is more likely to precipitate in the
upper portion of the screen than a lower area (see Fig. 1, page 10). Development is critical to push acid outside the
screen to dissolve scale in the formation. (see “Development,” page 10.) Do not use in wells with over 250’ of water as
the pellets will dissolve before reaching the screen. The dosage is based upon pounds per foot of screen, see Table 3,
or follow the dosage on product label. Monitor pH and adjust accordingly (see “Field Monitoring,” page 12 &13).

Bullets may also be used to loosen stuck pumps due to mineral scale buildup. For domestic pumps, pour approximately
4 to 5 pounds of Bullets on top of the stuck pump. You may have to break up the “Bullets” to get them through the pit
less adapter. Let sit for several hours or overnight, and work the pump up and down to loosen the pump. In severe
cases, an overshot casing scraper may be required to scrape the scale to the pump. Use an airline to blow the debris
out of the well prior to installing the Bullets. Do not use Bullets in wells with screens longer than 5’.

Pour Bullets from surface

Screen Number of Pounds per
Dimension total pounds foot of screen
2” x 5’ 2.5 lbs 0.50 lbs
4” x 5’ 5.0 lbs 1.00 lbs
Bullets 5” x 5’ 7.5 lbs 1.30 lbs
6” x 5’ 10.0 lbs 2.00 lbs

5
 Slime Bacteria Problems
Common soil organisms
Most slime problems are caused by naturally occurring, common soil bacteria found in every aquifer. These are often
referred to as heterotrophic bacteria. The most common of these are identified within the families of Pseudamonas,
Aerobacter, Acentobacter and Flavobacter. These bacteria process nutrients within the aquifer and exist normally in
numbers of tens of colonies per milliliter. Many of these families are highly mobile and can be either aerobic or
anaerobic. Aerobic bacteria like areas of high oxygen in a well, ie., high velocity areas of a screen during pumping or
at the static water level, cascading water, etc. Anaerobic bacteria like areas of low oxygen, ie., non-pumping wells, low
permeable area of aquifers, slumps beneath screens in wells, or beneath large amounts of scale and slime or decayed
debris, etc. Anaerobic bacteria often produce odors and can cause corrosion of well casings, screens, or pumps.
Slime production
Since bacteria are found naturally in all aquifers, there may be reasons for slime production in some wells or systems
and not others. Our studies indicate slime production occurs:

1) if the available food source for bacteria is low or threatened. Most bacteria are carried by water velocity consistently
toward the bore hole. The food source becomes depleted as the number of bacteria increase in their normal growth
cycles. In lab studies, the number of bacteria will often be in the high hundreds of colonies/ml when slime problems
exist. This can be compared to numbers in the tens of colonies when slime problems do not exist.

2) when velocity and pressure is excessive. Aquifers have a natural direction of flow, but when a well is installed and
pumped, the direction of flow and velocity change drastically toward the bore hole. This flow has a tendency to
continuously bring more bacteria to the well. The natural flow velocity within an aquifer is measured in feet per year or
even inches per year, whereas the flow around a well during pumping is measured in feet per second. Tremendous
changes in velocity and pressures also occur in the pump, pump drop pipe and in the system. Massive amounts of slime
may be found in these areas with little slime production in the well. Poor development techniques in new wells, which
results in low well efficiency, increases the tendency for both precipitation of minerals and the production of slime. Poor
well efficiency increases the velocity of water moving toward the bore hole.

The slime produced is a natural protection against harmful chemicals like chlorine and acids. Studies show shock
chlorination kills only some of the bacteria and will smear the outer surface of the slime mass. Bacteria may be damaged
and will not repopulate as quickly for a period of time. In an incubator at 70º F, the time required for bacteria to repopulate is
a matter of weeks. At normal ground water temperatures, the time required to repopulate becomes months. Bacteria can
survive acid solutions with a pH of 2 for long periods which is impossible to maintain in the entire thickness of the bore hole
and aquifer. Any attempt to kill these bacteria with biocides, chlorine, hydrochloric and hydroxyacetic acids is, at best
temporary.

Bacteria have a 22 minute life expectancy at 70º F and slightly longer in lower ground water temperatures. Once the
bacteria die, any slime produced will slowly harden over a long period of time. This becomes a ferric oxide and plugs
wells just as mineral scale would. As water flows over this ferric oxide, CO2 converts ferric to ferrous and concentrations
of iron in water may fluctuate or elevate substantially. Levels of manganese and sulfates may also fluctuate.

Iron Bacteria
It was thought that iron bacteria was the main culprit of slime problems in wells, but they have only been identified in less
than 10% of our water studies in the past 10 years. It was thought that iron bacteria was introduced into wells through
dirty tools of well drillers and pump installers and is a possibility. Site cleanliness and disinfection are important, but iron
bacteria can also occur naturally in aquifers.

Iron bacteria produces a stalk or tube like, sheath. This becomes a framework that slime bacteria attach to or fill in,
which increases the severity of plugging. Iron bacteria like areas of high nutrients, ie., steel casing, pumps, and decayed
debris from other bacteria. They secrete a very corrosive enzyme to process nutrients and corrosion is often found on
metal surfaces. Physical indications may include musty or fishy odors and even an oily film on water. When identified, it
is an indication of massive amounts of scale or biological debris. The most common families of iron bacteria are
Galleonella, Crenothrix, and Leptothrix.

6
Sulfate Reducing Bacteria (SRBs) (rotten egg odor)
SRBs are anaerobic in nature, which means they survive in an environment where oxygen is not present. These
areas include sumps below the screen or non-producing areas of a screen or aquifer. They are often found in wells
that are not pumped frequently causing oxygen to be depleted. The sudden presence of a rotten egg odor in an
older well may indicate a massive amount of slime growth and/or mineral scale deposits. These bacteria may be
found under growth and scale because it provides a low-oxygen environment. The total biological mass may include
layers of aerobic slime formers on the surface and anaerobic bacteria at the base. All could be intermixed with
precipitates of minerals and dead and decayed bacterial debris.

SRBs reduce sulfates in water and require fairly substantial levels of sulfate or gypsum to survive. They process
sulfate by releasing an organic acid that is very corrosive, creating a ferrous sulfate or ferrous oxide. Hydrogen
Sulfide (H2S) is a gas which smells like rotten eggs and is released during this process. This odor may not be
present until a well or system is treated with chlorine or acids. Once the outside protective shell of the scale or
slime is removed, the odor appears as the bacteria are exposed to the environment. A massive odor of H2S can
be present during the wire brushing of a well before a chemical treatment for slime bacteria. (see page 8)

These can be naturally occurring bacteria present in new wells within areas of clay or shale lenses. Completion of wells
in clean sand with short sections of screen or casing driven to clean sandstone can minimize or eliminate these odors.

If the problem exists in a new well, the odor can be eliminated by aeration. Use either a bladder pressure tank with an
air injection, a galvanized tank, or an open water storage tank to allow the gas to escape.

If the standard bladder tank is used, the bladder does not allow the gas to escape and the odor appears at the point of use.

Field Diagnosis for Slime Bacteria

*Well yield (Specific Capacity) may decline suddenly and drastically.

*Wet, slimy debris may be present on pump column or in the piping system. Slime may be any color, even clear.
When dry, this slime may turn into a very fine, fluffy powder, or hardened scale.

*A musty, fishy odor or an oily film on water may indicate bacterial activity.

*A hydrogen sulfide odor (rotten eggs odor) that suddenly appears, may indicate debris in a well.

*Bubbling or corrosion may be noticed on pumps or the pump column and is a sign of either electrolchemical or
anaerobic bacterial activity. If TDS is less than 600 ppm, corrosion may be due to bacterial activity, either iron bacteria
or sulfate reducing bacteria. If TDS is greater than 600 ppm, corrosion may be due to galvanic corrosion. (see “Field
Diagnosis for Mineral Scale.”)

*Fluctuating or increasing iron or manganese concentrations in water. This may indicate an increase in oxides
created by decaying bacteria. Compare past water chemistry to present information.

*Video's of wells may show slimy or stringy growths on the inside of casing or screen.

7
Treatment of Slime Bacteria for Wells

Physical cleaning
Always wire brush the well casing, screen or open bore hole below the static water level to physically remove
slimy debris. Use poly brushes on PVC casing and steel brushes on steel casing. Be aware, strong odors may be
present if SRB’s are exposed. Bail or airlift debris from the bottom of the well prior to chemical treatment. The
chemicals will now be more effective on debris outside the screen or into the bore hole. Sonic jetting does not
work effectively on soft slime because the impact is only absorbed by the bio mass. Extremely high pressure jetting
and pumping can also be effective at removing this bio mass. Other physical treatments (CO2 or high energy air
pressure) are good for first step cleaning, prior to our chemistry.

Chemical treatment of wells for slime bacteria

Three separate plugging problems may exist-slime, normal mineral scale and oxides created by dead and decaying
bacteria. Decayed organic debris is a nutrient for future bacterial growth. Products or treatment methods touted for
killing slime bacteria do not deal with the oxides and mineral scale effectively and consistently. Acids alone may dissolve
mineral scale and oxides but do not kill bacteria. Sulfamic is not effective at dissolving iron oxides so nutrient remains
for future growth. Chlorine kills some bacteria but only damages the upper layer of the bio mass and has little effect on
mineral scale and oxides. Bacteria will repopulate and the problems will return within months. Any products that attempt
to kill bacteria produce only short-term results.

The combination of “Unicid” Granular and “Unicid” Catalyst deals with all problems consistently and for longer periods of
time with a single application. The dispersion chemistry of the Granular dissolves oxides created by decaying bacteria
and any mineral scale. The Catalyst penetrates the bio mass, detaches live bacteria, suspends them in solution through
a series of polymers (independent of pH). This allows all debris to be pumped from the well. All physical plugging is
now removed, allowing the flow characteristics of a well to return with normal bacterial counts. Once treatment is
complete, airlift all debris from the bottom of the well, contain all chemicals in a surface tank, and neutralize prior to
disposal. Our chemistry can simply be deposed to any ground surface but any low pH (below 5), chemistry may kill
grass and plants. Again, all “Unicid” products are safe for disposal once pH is neutralized and are totally biodegradable
and usable by plants and animals. (see “Disposal of Chemicals,” page 14)

Cleaning the pump:

When treating a well infested with slime bacteria, it’s important to chemically clean the pump and any submersible
cable before reinstallation. It doesn’t help to clean the well and reinstall a pump that is contaminated. Disassemble the
pump and put it in a 4% solution of the “Unicid” Granular (.3 lbs per gallon) and Catalyst (.04 gallons per gallon). The
chemicals will not damage pump parts. For small submersible pumps, the entire pump and submersible cable can be
soaked in a surface tank. Every 2 hours, energize the pump by connecting the cable to the starter box. Repeat 2 to 3
times until discharge is clean. We recommend new drop pipe be installed on domestic wells, as it’s difficult to clean and
cheap to replace. (see “Chemical Treating Water Lines and Systems,” page 9 for dosages)

Product placement in the well if the SWL is less than 100’ or the column of water is less than 200’:
Use a pour from surface method in applying the “Unicid” Granular and Catalyst. Refer to the dosage charts on
product labels or Tables 2.1 and 4. The amount of Granular is calculated in pounds per foot of water in the well.
Multiply the total feet of water in the well (total depth minus the static water level) times the pounds per foot
recommended for the Granular to get the number of pounds recommended for the initial treatment. The amount of
Catalyst is calculated based on gallons per foot of water in the well. Multiply the total feet of water times the gallons
per foot recommended for the Catalyst to determine the total gallons of Catalyst required. For example: a well has 4”
casing, 20’ static level, and a 65’ total depth. 65-20 = 45’ of water in a well. Granular: 0.3 lb/ft of water x 45’=13
pounds. Catalyst: 0.04 gal/ft of water x 45’=1.8 gallons.

Pour all the Granular into the well from the surface first, followed by all the Catalyst. Wash down the inside of the casing
with plain water to remove the chemicals above the static water level. Start the development process immediately,
monitor pH, and adjust accordingly. (see”Development”, page 10 and “Field Monitoring,” pages 12 and 13.)
Product placement if the SWL is deeper than 100’ or column of water is greater than 200’:
Place as a liquid in equal amounts throughout the column of water. This can be done in equal sections through a tremie
line or between packers into specific areas of the casing and screen. Use dosage recommendations to determine the
correct amount of Granular and Catalyst. See Tables 2.1 & 4. Create a liquid by mixing the required amount of Granular
at a maximum mix ratio of 2 lbs per gallon of water. For example, 200 lbs.÷2 equal a minimum 100 gallons of water.
Circulate with any pump to mix. Pour the Catalyst into this acidic blend, mix, and pump into the well in equal increments.
Start development immediately, monitor pH, and adjust accordingly. (see “Field Monitoring,” pages 12 & 13).

8
 Granular Catalyst

Use with Catalyst for Use with the “Unicid”

Slime Bacteria Granular Acid
Well Pounds of Granular Well Gallons per foot of
Diameter acid/ft of water in well Diameter water in the well
2” 0.25 lbs 2” 0.02 gal
4” 0.30 lbs 4” 0.04 gal
5” 0.50 lbs 5” 0.05 gal
6” 0.70 lbs 6” 0.08 gal
8” 1.10 lbs 8” 0.13 gal
10” 1.75 lbs 10” 0.20 gal
12” 2.50 lbs 12” 0.30 gal
14” 3.00 lbs 14” 0.36 gal
16” 4.00 lbs 16” 0.48 gal
18” 5.00 lbs 18” 0.60 gal
20” 6.25 lbs 20” 0.80 gal
24” 10.00 lbs 24” 1.18 gal
Table 2.1 Table 4

9
 Disposal of Chemicals
Disposal issues should include chemicals that are non-hazardous, totally biodegradable and upon disposal, adjustment of
pH. Check MSDS sheets on all products used. A pH of 6 to 9 is considered safe for disposal by most environmentalists.
Lime and soda ash are often used to neutralize acids but require huge amounts of product and are difficult to determine
dosages. They do not mix well with acid and are dangerous to work with as a powder in windy conditions. These products
offer no control of pH with an instantaneous pH of 10 to 12, which, as an alkaline, is more difficult and dangerous to dispose
of than acids.

“pH Neutralize” has several advantages:

1) dosages are consistent so estimated amounts can be calculated (see Figure 5)
2) it is a liquid for easy and safe mixing
3) it requires only a few, reclosable containers on site, rather than many bags of powder that can break or get wet
4) pH is controlled as it rises and will not rise above 9
5) a chart provides specific dosages dependent upon the pH of acid being neutralized (see Figure 4)
6) can neutralize any type of acid.

Do not pour “pH Neutralize” into a well to neutralize acids. This liquid weighs 12.4 lbs per gallon and may force debris
out the screen or bore hole and cause additional plugging. When treatment is complete, pump or airlift all chemistry
from the bottom of a well or system into a tank. Measure pH of the acid, and pour the required “pH Neutralize” into
the acid and mix slightly. pH will rise quickly. Dispose of chemicals, according to federal, state and local regulations,
once a pH of 6 is obtained. Pump a second batch of acid from the well and repeat the process. The pH may vary
substantially throughout the pumping process until pH returns to normal. All “Unicid” products are totally biodegradable
and safe for disposal once neutralized. “Unicid” can be land disposed without being neutralized, but any low pH product
may kill plants.

Dosage “pH Neutralize”

to adjust acid to pH of 7
PH Estimates for product on site
Casing
Diameter
Gallons/foot
water in well
Neutralize 2” .01 gal
4”
Gallons of pH Neutralize

.010 .04 gal

5” .06 gal
per gallon of acid

.015 6” .10 gal

8” .15 gal
.020 10” .29 gal
12” .31 gal
.025 14” .38 gal
16” .50 gal
.030 18” .65 gal
20” .80 gal
.035 24” 1.20 gal

2 3 4 5 6
Figure 4 pH of acid to be neutralized
Table 5

These estimates would be the minimum amount of product to have on site for neutralization of acids after
treatment. The calculation in Figure 5 assumes an average pH of 4 and approximately 3 times the volume of
the bore hole that would require adjustment. This number may vary depending on the calcareous content of the
formation, the amount of acid used, and the time the acid is in the well. 6 to 15 volumes of the bore hole may
be required.

Hydrochloric (Muriatic) liquid acids may have inherent ingredients that are not totally biodegradable and are
classified as hazardous. There may be questions regarding proper disposal. Hydrochloric and sulfamic acids may
vary greatly in actual percentages of acid. The amount of “pH Neutralize” required to adjust pH may vary slightly
(less) from the above dosages.

10
 Development in Wells
New Well After 4 Years After 8 Years After 12 Years

Figure 1 Mineral scale deposits Slime bacterial growth

Figure 1 indicates how velocities in wells may change over time.

Importance of physical development
Development is extremely important and is the contractor’s responsibility. Dirty clothes don’t get clean in a clothes
washer if the machine is not turned on. It’s the agitation that allows the detergent to work successfully. Chemicals are
too often dumped into wells, surged slightly or not at all, and pumped out in 12 to 24 hours with no understanding of why
the process did or did not work. Chemicals need to be pushed back and forth through openings in the screen or into
fracture zones of consolidated formations during the development process .

Incrustation (mineral scale) and slime produced by bacteria often occur first in areas of the screen or bore hole where
the velocity is the highest. Once that area is plugged, the water is forced to flow from other areas. This creates greater
head loss, increased drawdown, and potentially sand pumping (see Figure 1). If new wells are not developed properly,
plugging due to drilling muds and silts increases velocity to the bore hole and enhances plugging due to mineral scale
and/or slime bacteria. During well rehabilitation with “Unicid” and proper development, the specific capacity is often
increased over the original specific capacity. If the development action consists only of airlifting water and allowing it to fall
back into the well or surging the well with a vertical turbine pump, acid may follow the path of least resistance through
areas of the screen that are already open. In longer screens, localized development becomes more important.

Always check the well for any fill and bail or airlift out prior to installation of chemicals. In the early stages of
development, you may find that only a small amount of scale or debris will be pulled into the screen. As the development
process continues, sand may be pulled into the screen as the scale is dissolved and there is greater access to the
formation. Do not be alarmed, this is an indication the scale has been dissolved. Now finer sands can been pulled into
the screen, and further development of the formation will be required. This will increase the yield of the well.

Development does not have to be constant over 24 to 36 hours. Do as much as physically possible and economically
feasible. Municipal and industrial wells generally warrant more effort, but the development of domestic wells should not be
forgotten. Surge a domestic well for 3 to 4 hours in the afternoon, check pH and adjust as necessary. Let the chemicals
sit over night, surge for 30 minutes the next morning, check and adjust pH as necessary. This is better than no
development at all. Sell the development process. Monitoring and adjusting pH is just as important in domestic wells as
in municipal wells, because you want a successful and complete rehabilitation. “Unicid” chemicals will work consistently
and the process will last much longer if the contractor performs this critical step of development.

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Types of Development: There are four basic types of development: 1) Surging with the pump or “rawhiding”, 2) Airlifting or air
development, 3) Surge Block, and 4) Jetting. There are advantages and disadvantages to each but the choice should be
based upon effectiveness not cost. Development plays a more critical role in well rehabilitation than it does in a new well.
You can pump water from a new well even if it’s only 30% efficient. Efficiency may be virtually zero in a well plugged with
scale or biological debris because we too often let the well go until the pump is breaking suction. The energy required to
move chemistry against this blockage will be much greater. The greater the decline of Specific Capacity (see page 1), the
greater the requirement for more effective, localized development.

Surging with the pump or Rawhiding: In well rehabilitation, this is done with a vertical turbine pump by removing the non-
reverse ratchet. The purpose is to pump chemistry to the surface, shut off the pump and allow the chemistry to fall back into
the well, using the pump column as a conduit. Submersible pumps can’t be used because of a check valve in the pump. You
can recirculate chemistry back into the well with a submersible pump, but the it may become plugged with loosened debris.
This only creates recirculation of chemistry inside the casing. The greatest advantage to this method is low cost, because the
pump isn’t removed. The disadvantage is that it becomes impossible to obtain specific or localized velocity against plugged
areas (see Figure 1, page 10). Chemistry will take a path of least resistance and flow in and out (already) open areas of the
screen or bore hole. A high Static Water Level does not allow much head pressure for back flow velocities. We only
recommend this method of development as a last resort, especially in long screens or boreholes.

Airlifting or air development: This is done by installing a rigid airline into the casing and forcing air into the well to lift chemistry
upward without overflowing at the surface. A quick cutoff of air allows chemistry to fall in the well for the two way development
action. This method does provide turbulence with a two directional flow. This process is somewhat limited in longer lengths of
screen (>20’) or open bore hole (>50’) as specific, localized velocity against plugged areas may not be obtained. Chemistry
again, will follow a path of least resistance and have a tendency to flow outward, into areas of a formation that are already
open. This method can be done between two packers to force localized development in specific areas and is much more
effective.

In larger diameter wells, an eductor pipe can be used. This is a second pipe placed first into the well with the airline inside.
Keep the airline within the eductor pipe to achieve a pumping and surging effect. The smaller annulus between the airline and
educator pipe minimizes the air requirement. It’s a great way to “vacuum” debris from the bottom of a well after wire brushing
or upon completion of well rehabilitation to totally remove debris and chemistry. (Call for pipe sizing).

Surging/surge block: This can be done with a tight-fitting, flexible surge block and a rig with a sand reel or free-fall line to
create a block velocity (up and down) of approximately 3-5’ per second. The downward motion of this block acts like a
plunger, forcing chemistry outward into the formation. The upward motion pulls debris into the screen or bore hole. A small
cable tool rig works best for this as it allows a 3’ stroke and an automatic action with a walking beam. This is highly effective
in low open area screens (slotted, bridge slot, or louvered) and high open area screens or open bore holes. Some pump
truck manufacturers make a walking beam insert that can be installed and removed from the bed of a pump truck. It’s very
versatile, mobile, and easy to set up and tear down. Most hydraulic rigs don’t provide the vertical speed required for good
development action and the operator is required to constantly operate controls.

Jetting: This method is not very effective in low open area (3-5%) slotted pipe because 95-97% of the energy is directed
against blank pipe. In bridge slot screens, the slot design diverts the flow sideways. It can be effective in louver screens if the
flow is directed at an angle, directly toward the bore hole. Jetting may be the most effective in high open area, continuous slot
screens. It provides a very specific, high energy, development action directed throughout the entire length of screen.

It is absolutely necessary to keep chemistry in the well concentrated during well rehabilitation. Jetting with plain water
while chemistry is active in a well will dilute and reduce chemical effectiveness. One of the other development methods
should be used first. Jetting is highly recommended, once pH is stabilized in a well and the chemical treatment is com-
plete. (see “Monitoring of pH,” page 13) We highly recommend to simultaneously pump (airlift or a submersible pump)
the well 2-3 times the amount of water injected through the jetting tool. This pumping action adjacent to the jetting tool
provides a gradient toward the well to remove debris. Monitor this debris at the surface and spend more development
time in areas of the screen that appear more dirty.

Jetting can be used during chemical rehabilitation but you must maintain a concentration of chemistry under high pressure
and return the chemistry to the surface for: 1) monitoring of pH and color, 2) adjustment of pH, 3) settling of debris before
reinjection. This is a complex process requiring highly technical equipment and a very competent contractor.

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 Field Monitoring of “Unicid” During Treatments

For the first time in well rehabilitation, there is a method of monitoring chemistry during treatment. This helps to determine,
1) the type of scale encountered as some scales react differently to acids. (see color correlation below), 2) when or if to add
more acid, 3) when the project is complete as pH will not rise if no carbonates are present.
Coloration of acid
Monitor pH and color of “Unicid” during any rehabilitation project. The color of “Unicid” is unique and is an indicator of
the type of debris encountered. The correlation between color and pH helps indicate when and if to add more acid and
when the project is complete. A sample of acid can be obtained from the bottom of the well with a “dart bailer” or a
“ball-check bailer” and should be taken every 2 to 4 hours. In screens longer than 25’, a sample from various areas of
the screen gives a more accurate indication of pH. You may find different reactions in different areas of the screen.
Contractors can maintain records of pH and color for customers along with results of test pumping “Before and After”
treatment, which is a great sales tool.
Color correlation to scale using “Unicid”
Yellow = iron Dark Brown = calcium/iron Black = manganese Green = sulfate
Yellow color = iron. Iron levels in water might be greater than 1.0 ppm. Iron scale can be caused by normal mineral
precipitation or iron oxides created by decaying bacteria. Fluctuating or increasing levels of iron may be caused by
increases in iron oxides created by decaying bacteria. “Unicid” turns yellow as it dissolves iron. You may notice some
bubbling with 2 to 4 feet of foam building on the static water level while the acid is working, along with a moderate rise in
pH. The amount of bubbling depends upon the amount of calcium carbonate in the scale along with the iron. Adjust pH
accordingly (see “Monitoring of pH,” page 13). When pH has not risen for several hours, the project is complete.
Dark Brown color = calcium. This will be the most common reaction in wells or systems. Calcium or hardness levels in
water would generally be higher than 150 ppm. This is the easiest and fastest scale to dissolve. You may see 4 to 6’ of
foam and heavy bubbling on the static water level, but it will not explode out of the well, as may happen with hydrochloric
acid. The bubbling is a release of carbon dioxide only and is not dangerous, but it is a good idea to work in a well
ventilated area. Monitor pH every 1 to 3 hours, as it will rise quickly. Adjust pH accordingly (see “Monitoring of pH,”
page 13). When pH has not risen for several hours, the project is complete. See Figure 3.
Black color = manganese. Manganese levels in water would generally be higher than 0.05 ppm in a water analysis.
“Unicid” will be black when dissolving manganese. Many times, iron and manganese will be found in conjunction with
calcium and the color of acid will be dark brown and may include black chunks. Adjust pH accordingly (see “Monitoring of pH,”
page 13). When the pH has not risen for several hours, the project is complete. See Figure 3.
Green color = sulfate. Sulfate levels in water generally would be greater than 40 ppm. Sulfate scale is often found on
the outside of several layers of scale because it precipitate in slow moving or static water. When dissolving sulfate,
“Unicid” turns green. pH is not affected when acid dissolves sulfate so pH will remain low. When encountering sulfate,
the amount of bubbling on the static level will be minimal and foam nonexistent. Once the “Unicid” dissolves a sulfate
layer, the acid may change color based on the scale encountered. A greater degree of bubbling may occur as
dependent upon the level of calcium carbonate, and pH will rise. Adjust pH accordingly (see “Monitoring of pH,” page
13) and maintain the development effort. A second layer of sulfate may exist and the color may change back to green
and pH will remain low. Maintain the development effort and monitor color and pH. Adjust accordingly. See Figure 3 for
typical pH adjustments. You may find some wells with constant green color. Measure total dissolved solids in the acid
and when stable (does not rise) the project is complete. When a green color remains for more than one day, contractors
have found great success by leaving chemistry in the well for 4 to 5 days and agitating periodically.

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Monitoring pH
As acid dissolves carbonate scale, the acid becomes neutralized and pH rises. pH is logarithmic, meaning, a pH of
1 has ten times the acid dissolving power of a pH of 2. A pH of 2 has ten times the power of 3, etc. Therefore, the
speed and ability for acid to dissolve scale would decrease as pH rises. Once pH rises above 3.5, the power of acid
is diminished and the time required to dissolve becomes much longer. (see Figure 2)

Relationship of pH to Time On-Site Monitoring of Two

Typical Samples
6 6

5
} logarithmic
5 Adjustments of pH

4 4
pH pH
3 3

2 2

1 1

5 10 15 20 25 30 5 10 15 20 25 30
Figure 2 Time in hours Figure 3 Time in hours
Sample of typical carbonate scale. Sample of
typical sulfate, then carbonate scale.

Dosage recommendations for “Unicid” represent averages based on history. It is impossible to know how much scale or
bacterial debris is present in a well or system, so it is impossible to know how much acid will be required to complete the
job successfully. A pound of “Unicid” Granular and a pound of hydrochloric (Muriatic) acid both dissolve an equal
amount of scale. The coloration of “Unicid” is unique to any acid and along with the monitoring of pH helps determine
1) if and when to add more acid, and 2) when the job is complete, and all the scale or debris is dissolved.

As long as debris is present, pH will continue to rise. When pH rises above 3, add 30% of the initial dosage of just the
“Unicid” Granular acid to adjust pH below 2.0. For example, if the initial dosage in either a mineral scale or slime
bacterial application required 40 lbs of Granular, 12 lbs would be required to adjust pH (40 lbs x 0.3). Add the dosage
using the same method as the initial dose, ie., “Pour from surface” method or “Tremie line” method. If more debris is
available, acid has something to dissolve and pH will rise. Adjust pH by adding another 30% of the initial dose. Continue
to monitor and adjust pH accordingly. Once all debris is removed, pH will rise much more slowly, as the acid has nothing
to dissolve. We recommend you have enough Granular on site to do 3 pH adjustments.

The project is complete when; 1) the pH has not risen for 3 to 4 hours or has risen much more slowly. 2) the color of the acid is
yellow, dark brown, or black. Each well will be different. (see Figure 3 and “Before” and “After” video photo’s on back cover)

The exception to this rule is when the acid becomes diluted from water entering into the screen from the formation. In
this case, pH will rise very quickly (greater than 4.5) or may be difficult to maintain low after adjustment. This is an
indication the treatment is also complete. The dilution rate may depend upon the permeability of the formation.

There may be new wells or systems that plug from massive slime formation only. There may be very little scale and
oxides from decaying bacteria that have had time to harden. The acid will not have any debris (carbonates) to dissolve
and therefore pH will not rise. Since the “Unicid” Catalyst works independent of the “Unicid” Granular and pH, live
bacteria and slime will still be removed but pH may not rise as much as expected.

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 Cleaning Pipelines

Dimensions and Capacity/Lineal Foot of Pipe

Nominal Inside Gallons/Lineal Nominal Inside Gallons/Lineal
Size Pipe Diameter * Foot of Pipe Size Pipe Diameter * Foot of Pipe
1” 1.0” 0.041 gal/ft 5” 5.0” 1.04 gal/ft
1 1/4” 1.38” 0.08 6” 6.0” 1.5
1 1/2” 1.61” 0.11 8” 8.0” 2.6
2” 2.0” 0.17 10” 10.0” 4.2
2 1/2” 2.44” 0.25 12” 12.0” 5.9
3” 3.0” 0.37 14” 13.25” 7.17
3 1/2” 3.5” 0.50 16” 15.25” 9.5
4” 4.0” 0.64
* For other diameters or for questions on specific sites, call our Technical Services Line, 888.437.6426
(888.4.DSN.H2O) or 952.474.4651.

Table 6

Plugging problems can occur in water lines and environmental recovery or treatment systems. Symptoms may include,
1. reduced flow, 2. reduced pressure, 3. discoloration, 4. an increase in chemical injection (phosphate or chlorine)
requirements may indicate a demand due to biological growths. See “Physical Diagnosis” for chemistry direction.

For pipelines less than 1500’, we recommend using a mix tank near the well and recirculation of chemistry into the system
and recirculated through a surface line. The tank is used for mixing chemistry and during recirculation acts as a settling pit
for debris. In a submersible pump application, there is often a pitless adapter with a discharge 6-7’ below surface. The
pump has to be pulled and the spool adapted to allow a pipe to the surface to be connected to a recirculation pump in the
tank. For longer pipelines, call our technical service line for design help.

Total chemistry required is based upon total gallons of water in, 1. the original pipeline, 2. single or multiple surface piping
from different points of the system used for recirculation, 3. the mix tank. Multiply volumes in Table 6 times total footage of
the pipeline (1) plus whatever diameter and footage of recirculation piping (2) used back to the mix tank. Multiply total
gallons (1 + 2) times .30 (30%) for the amount of water in the tank (3) to use for recirculation. Add all three amounts of
water for total gallons required. In mineral scale applications multiply total gallons times .3 lbs of “Unicid” Granular. In slime
or iron bacteria applications, multiply total gallons times .04 gallons of “Unicid” Catalyst and add to the mixture of Granular.

Fill the mix tank with the required amount of water for the entire pipeline. Start circulation in the tank with any standard
contractor pump. Slowly pour the Granular into the intake and circulate in the tank to mix. In slime applications, mix the
Granular first then pour the required Catalyst into the intake of the pump and circulate to mix. Multiple tanks can be mixed to
obtain required volume for a piping system but maintain dosages per gallon in the mix tank before pumping into the pipeline.
Run surface piping from the end of the system back to the mix tank. Connect piping into the system to the pump in the mix
tank. Start the pump and run the discharge from the surface line to waste until pH declines drastically, then recirculate into
the tank. Early in the process, you can measure a discharge amount in a bucket or barrel with time. As debris dissolves in
the pipeline, the volume will increase in the same time frame. You can also inspect the piping. When done, circulate plain
water through the entire system. Discharge until pH is absolutely normal. Reconnect all piping.

15
 Cleaning Water Storage Tanks
There may be applications to clean slime forming bacteria from a water storage tank. This can be done easily and safely
with a combination of the “Unicid” Granular and Catalyst products. The application is dependent upon the tank size and
accessibility to the interior of the tank. Most storage tanks are too large to fill with chemistry because the cost may be
prohibitive. Cleaning small tanks can be accomplished by following procedures outlined on page 9, “Chemical treating
water lines...”

Most large tanks are accessible through a manhole. We recommend to drain the tank and check the natural pH of water
for a reference point, after the cleaning process. Once inside the tank, physically brush the interior walls and floor below
the high water level. Simultaneously, high pressure spray the walls and floor to further remove debris. Set up a pump at
the bottom of the tank and remove all debris or vacate from the tower base. Do not allow sludge to flow into the perma-
nent pipeline.

Once most of the debris is physically removed, chemistry can be used to microscopically clean bacterial attachment
from the tank interior. Any type of high pressure sprayer can be used. Calculate the amount of water in the sprayer tank
and use a 3% solution of chemistry.

The dosage for the “Unicid” Granular is .25 lbs./gallon of water in the sprayer tank. Physically mix the granular into water
and circulate with any standard contractors pump to mix more thoroughly. The dosage of the Catalyst is .03 gallons per
gallon in the sprayer tank. Pour the “Unicid” Catalyst into this acidic blend. Physically mix or continue circulation to mix
more thoroughly. Pour the chemistry into the tank and pressurize the unit. Spray the chemistry on to the side walls and
the base of the tower while physically brushing the chemistry. Repeat the treatment in specific areas of large amounts of
debris if not fully clean.

Flush the interior with plain water under high pressure, until the discharge water returns to a normal pH. This will require
some time, but it is mandatory to follow this procedure before reconnecting water lines.

Safety Issues:
Even though there are no dangerous gasses released by the chemistry, there may be a release of carbon dioxide from
dissolving scale or decaying debris from bacteria. It is absolutely necessary to use a self-contained breathing apparatus
while working in this enclosed environment. Use rubber boots, rubber gloves, and protective clothing along with full eye
wear protection (goggles).

Disposal:
Chemical debris being flushed from the tower should be contained to prevent inadvertent runoff and maintain control for
disposal of chemistry. Check local regulations for proper disposal. “Unicid” chemistry can be land disposed with a low
pH, but any acidic chemistry with a pH below 5 may kill plant life. Calcium in the soil will neutralize acids and complete
degradation is 27 days. If neutralization is required, see “Disposal of Chemicals,” pg 14. Chemistry can now be
disposed to sanitary sewers or land disposal without any environmental concerns. See MSDS sheets for further safety
information.

16
 Lab Services
Lab services are available to help determine problems in wells and systems. These services include:
1) analysis of water chemistry to determine the tendencies for mineral scale and corrosion
2) identification and quantification of slime-forming bacteria
3) identification and severity analysis of anaerobic bacteria (odor & corrosion problems)
4) total bacterial counts via ATP analysis.

Please contact us or your local “Unicid” distributor for prices and information.

Contractor/Sales/Promotion/Professionalism

- Education is your key to success.

- Strive to be better!
- There may be factors that are unknown, so success can not be guaranteed.
- Learn about well rehabilitation, it is not an exact science.
- Customers make better decisions if they are informed.
- Learn what your customer’s needs are!

Use this manual and the drawings to explain the phenomena of mineral scale and bacterial growths. List and
compare the actual well information regarding well yield and Specific Capacity. Do a pumping test before and after
rehabilitation. Provide your customer with the results and a graph on actual pH adjustment during the rehabilitation
process. Your customers deserve this is information and adds to your professionalism. It is important that a job is
completed in the least amount of time, on a cost effective basis, and completed successfully and safely.

We have treated 4500 wells for mineral scale and over 6000 wells for slime bacteria with over a 99.9% success rate.

There is a huge difference in contractors, chemicals, development methods, obtained results, and longevity of treatment.
Work for consistency. Study the history of the well. Understand the problem prior to designing a solution. Diagnose
potential problems through symptoms. If you are puzzled, our lab services are available.

If you have questions, call Toll Free 888.4.DSN.H2O (888.437.6426), or 952.474.4657

Well rehabilitation by Design, not by accident.

Mineral Scale Slime Bacteria

or +
Granular Bullets Granular Catalyst

Neutralize acids for disposal

PH
Neutralize

17
Before “Unicid” After “Unicid”

Manufactured by

5920 Covington Road

Shorewood, MN 55331
Toll Free: 888.4.DSN.H2O (888.437.6426)
Phone: 952.474.4657
Fax: 952.470.6637
E-mail: [email protected]
Web Site: www.designwater.com

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