For this month's CONNECTION:
- Explore how a water well works through an interactive visual
You’ve likely come across powerful images of children drinking from unsafe water sources, and witnessed the life-changing impact of a new water system, such as a hand pump, in a community. But what exactly does this hand pump mean for these children and their community? Are wells the ultimate solution, and can they be sustained over time? Do they simply get copied from one community to another? Let’s embark on a deeper exploration of how water wells function and their critical role in providing clean water solutions.
While we at Living Water International employ various methods to provide sustainable and safe water, wells remain a popular choice for several reasons. These systems are more easily maintained by the community, they are cost-effective, and there is an abundant supply of clean water found in underground aquifers, naturally purified by sand and porous rocks. Together, let’s delve into the fascinating world of water wells and their vital impact on communities.
Discover the inner workings of a safe water well by hovering over the numbered points below. Explore the nine essential components that come together to provide clean and sustainable water solutions.
The hand pump is the mechanism on the surface that allows users to draw water from the well below. It is operated manually, making it suitable for remote areas without access to electricity. Hand pumps are reliable, easy to maintain, and provide a sustainable water supply for communities.
The sanitary seal, often made of cement grout, is used to fill the space between the well casing and the borehole wall. This seal prevents any potential pathways for contamination, ensuring that the water source remains pure and protected.
The solid well casing is a strong, impermeable pipe that surrounds and protects the inner components of the well. It prevents surface water and contaminants from seeping into the well, ensuring the water remains uncontaminated and safe for consumption.
The rising main, also known as the drop pipe, is a pipe that connects the pump cylinder to the handpump on the surface. When the handpump is operated, the rising main allows water to be drawn upward from the well, providing access to the clean water source below.
The formation stabilizer is a material that is placed between the borehole wall and the well casing to keep the well stable and secure. It prevents the well from collapsing and protects the aquifer from potential pollution, maintaining a reliable and safe water source.
The borehole wall refers to the inner surface of the well created during the drilling process. It is essential for maintaining the integrity of the well and preventing potential collapse while drilling. Lining the borehole wall with protective materials ensures that the water source remains safe from external contaminants.
The pump cylinder is a vital component of the handpump system. When the handle is operated, the pump cylinder creates suction that draws water from the well up to the surface for consumption. It is designed to be durable and reliable, allowing for consistent water extraction.
The gravel pack is a layer of clean and rounded gravel placed around the well casing. It serves as additional filtration, preventing fine sand and sediment from entering the well. The gravel pack supports the casing, stabilizes the well structure, and promotes efficient water flow.
The slotted well casing screen is a specially designed pipe with small openings that allow water to flow into the well while preventing debris and larger particles from entering. It acts as a filter to ensure the water drawn is clean and free from contaminants.
