PML Field Services can complete packer tests by isolating specific sections of soil or bedrock. By lowering and inflating the packer in the borehole, water-quality samples can be collected and aquifer tests can be conducted. These tests will allow you to understand the vertical distribution of water quality (usually contaminants) and hydraulic conductivity (pathways for water and contaminant movement) in an aquifer.
Monitoring water levels in nearby wells while pumping packed intervals can identify permeable intervals within the aquifer. Information from the packer tests can be used to properly site the future location of monitoring wells.
Smaller packers designed to fit a submersible sampling pump can be used to isolate the lower part of a monitoring well. Isolation by the packer allows reduced water volumes to be purged prior to sampling. This reduction can be beneficial because it can reduce purge times and may limit the handling and disposal of contaminated water.