On what basis do you say that low-flow sampling takes less time than traditional methods?
On what basis do you say that low-flow sampling takes less time than traditional methods? My experience is that it takes significantly longer, especially when collecting large volumes for analysis.
Low-flow purging and sampling can save time in some wells, but in very low-yield wells, low-flow purging and sampling can take longer, not only to purge but also to fill the sample bottles. This is why there are two things I always try to emphasize: one, in low-yield wells, the main reason for using low-flow purging and sampling would be to control turbidity. If you have no turbidity issues, then low-flow purging and sampling, if it takes longer, may not be your best choice. And two, when you are collecting larger sample volumes, make sure you achieve the highest purge rate you can at some stabilized water level and don’t get hung up on how much drawdown you have.
Low-flow purging and sampling can save time in some wells, but in very low-yield wells, low-flow purging and sampling can take longer, not only to purge but also to fill the sample bottles. This is why there are two things I always try to emphasize: one, in low-yield wells, the main reason for using low-flow purging and sampling would be to control turbidity. If you have no turbidity issues, then low-flow purging and sampling, if it takes longer, may not be your best choice. And two, when you are collecting larger sample volumes, make sure you achieve the highest purge rate you can at some stabilized water level and don’t get hung up on how much drawdown you have.