Question

What material is commonly used for casing in well construction?

• A. PVC
• B. Concrete
• C. Steel
• D. Wood

Hint:

• Well casing lines the borehole to maintain its integrity and protect water quality.
• Common casing materials:
  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Widely used, especially for domestic and monitoring wells; corrosion-resistant, cost-effective.
  • Steel (Carbon or Stainless): Strong, used for deeper or larger wells.
  • Concrete: Sometimes for large-diameter dug wells.
• Wood is an outdated material for well casing.
• PVC is a very common choice for many well types.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To determine the material commonly used for casing in well construction, we need to consider the properties required for well casing and the materials typically used.

1. Understanding the Concepts:

- Well Casing: A pipe or tube inserted into a wellbore to prevent the borehole from collapsing, to prevent surface water or other contaminants from entering the well, and to provide a conduit for water to be pumped to the surface.
- Requirements for Casing Material: The material must be strong, durable, resistant to corrosion, and non-toxic.

2. Evaluating the Options:

- Steel: A strong and durable material often used for well casing, particularly in deeper wells or wells that require high structural integrity. It is susceptible to corrosion, but this can be mitigated with coatings.
- Concrete: Can be used in some well construction but less common than steel or PVC for the main casing due to weight and installation challenges. More commonly used for well seals or vaults.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): A plastic material that is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and relatively inexpensive. It is commonly used for well casing in shallower wells.
- Wood: Not commonly used for well casing in modern well construction due to its susceptibility to rot and lack of structural strength and durability.

3. Determining the Common Material:

While steel is used in many wells, PVC is a very common choice, particularly for domestic wells and shallower applications due to its cost-effectiveness and corrosion resistance. Steel is also common where greater strength or deeper wells are needed.

Final Answer:

The material commonly used for casing in well construction is Steel. Although PVC is also very common.