Understanding Policy Parameters

This guide provides detailed information about each parameter in the test policy configuration.

Common Parameters

All pressure test types (low, high, and single) share the same set of parameters. Here's a detailed explanation of each:

Duration

  • Purpose: Defines the minimum time period required for the test
  • Unit: seconds
  • Default: 300 seconds (5 hours)
  • Usage: Ensures sufficient time for pressure stabilization
  • Recommendations:
    • Minimum: 60 seconds
    • Maximum: 720 seconds
    • Typical: 300-480 seconds

Stability

  • Purpose: Measures pressure variation acceptability
  • Unit: Percentage (0-1)
  • Default: 0.5
  • Usage: Determines if pressure is stable enough
  • Recommendations:
    • Conservative: 0.3
    • Standard: 0.5
    • Aggressive: 0.7

Acceleration

  • Purpose: Maximum allowed rate of pressure increase
  • Unit: Pressure units per minute
  • Default: 0.05
  • Usage: Prevents rapid pressure spikes
  • Recommendations:
    • Conservative: 0.02
    • Standard: 0.05
    • Aggressive: 0.1

Deceleration

  • Purpose: Maximum allowed rate of pressure decrease
  • Unit: Pressure units per minute
  • Default: 0.05
  • Usage: Prevents rapid pressure drops
  • Recommendations:
    • Conservative: 0.02
    • Standard: 0.05
    • Aggressive: 0.1

Min Pressure

  • Purpose: Minimum acceptable pressure value
  • Unit: Pressure units (PSI, Bar, etc.)
  • Default: Varies by test type
  • Usage: Ensures pressure doesn't drop too low
  • Recommendations:
    • Set based on well specifications
    • Consider safety margins
    • Account for seasonal variations

Max Pressure

  • Purpose: Maximum acceptable pressure value
  • Unit: Pressure units (PSI, Bar, etc.)
  • Default: Varies by test type
  • Usage: Prevents pressure from exceeding limits
  • Recommendations:
    • Set based on well specifications
    • Consider safety margins
    • Account for seasonal variations

Test Type-Specific Considerations

Low Pressure Tests

  • Typical Duration: 300-480 seconds
  • Stability: Often more strict (0.4-0.6)
  • Pressure Range: Lower than high pressure tests
  • Common Issues:
    • Seasonal temperature effects
    • Groundwater level variations
    • Equipment sensitivity

High Pressure Tests

  • Typical Duration: 300-480 seconds
  • Stability: May be more lenient (0.5-0.7)
  • Pressure Range: Higher than low pressure tests
  • Common Issues:
    • Equipment limitations
    • Safety considerations
    • Temperature effects

Single Pressure Tests

  • Typical Duration: 180-300 seconds
  • Stability: Moderate (0.4-0.6)
  • Pressure Range: Based on specific test requirements
  • Common Issues:
    • Limited data points
    • Equipment calibration
    • Environmental factors

Parameter Relationships

Understanding how parameters interact is crucial:

  1. Duration and Stability

    • Longer duration allows for more stable readings
    • Higher stability requirements may need longer duration

  2. Acceleration/Deceleration and Stability

    • Stricter stability requirements may need lower acceleration/deceleration limits
    • Higher acceleration/deceleration limits may require longer duration

  3. Pressure Range and Duration

    • Wider pressure ranges may need longer duration
    • Seasonal variations may affect pressure ranges

Best Practices

  1. Start Conservative

    • Begin with conservative values
    • Adjust based on actual test results
    • Document changes and their impact

  2. Consider Environmental Factors

    • Temperature variations
    • Seasonal changes
    • Equipment limitations

  3. Safety First

    • Never exceed equipment limits
    • Maintain appropriate safety margins
    • Consider worst-case scenarios

  4. Regular Review

    • Monitor test results
    • Adjust parameters as needed
    • Document all changes

Next Steps