MIATA Platform
The Mobile Integrated Aquifer Testing and Analysis (MIATA) platforms allow HydroResolutions to mobilize all of the necessary equipment inside a mobile control center that includes a site specific data acquisition and control system (DACS). This DACS allows for the collection of all of the pertinent information associated with the hydraulic testing and it allows for off-site remote access via the internet. This capability serves to reduce the number of on-site personnel by allowing some portion of the real-time analysis of the hydraulic tests to be conducted remotely. This also allows the client and/or other designated parties real-time access to the data and the ability to provide input to the hydraulic testing process as it takes place (the remote data access has the most up-to-date protections and levels of access that are controlled via password protections).
Second generation MIATA platform control center.
The MIATA platforms provide a climate controlled environment from which the on-site personnel can conduct the necessary daily on-site operations that are required to bring the hydraulic testing to a successful conclusion. It also serves to protect all of the above-ground instrumentation and equipment from exposure to the weather. Virtually every operation necessary for successful completion of the hydraulic testing program can be conducted from within the comfort of the MIATA platforms.
HydroResolutions currently maintains a stable of 2 MIATA platforms including the fourth and fifth-generation models. The first two generations were designed and developed by HydroResolutions staff for Sandia National Laboratories in support of the hydrogeologic characterization work associated with the WIPP Site in southeastern New Mexico. Both of these MIATA platforms were designed with the primary goal of conducting constant-rate pumping tests. The third generation MIATA platform was designed and developed by HydroResolutions for the Nuclear Waste Management Organization of Ontario Power Generation. This MIATA platform was designed specifically for hydraulic testing in low-permeability systems associated with hydrogeologic characterization of their proposed deep geologic repository for low and intermediate-level radioactive waste. This hydraulic testing includes using straddle packer HTTs to isolate discreet intervals and then perform pulse, slug, and/or DST-type tests.
Second generation MIATA platform.
Third generation MIATA platform control center.
Third generation MIATA platform fluid end.
Third generation MIATA platform hydraulic control panel.
The two MIATA platforms that HydroResolutions currently maintains in its stable have both been designed and developed to be able to perform all types of hydraulic tests including:
- Constant-rate (0.25 to 1,500 gpm)
- Constant-head (lugeon)
- Straddle-packer isolated intervals
- Pulse
- Slug (conventional & pneumatic)
- DST
- Gas injection/withdrawal
For constant-rate and constant-head tests the rate and/or pressure can be controlled through the HydroResolutions developed DACS using a variable frequency drive that controls the pump motor speed and/or an electronically actuated valve on the discharge line. For tests designed more for low-permeability systems (pulse, slug, and DST) all of the downhole equipment including packers, shut-in valves, and pulse generating pistons are operated via a control panel and a state-of-the-art pressure maintenance system. Pressure, temperature, and rate data are collected via the onboard DACS and displayed both numerically and graphically as they are collected allowing for the real-time diagnosis of equipment problems. The data are analyzed real-time so that the testing process can be modified in order to better meet the test objectives.
The hundreds of hydraulic tests that HydroResolutions staff have performed and analyzed over more than 20 years have illustrated the most cost-effective methods of conducting these tests while obtaining all of the information necessary to properly characterize hydrogeologic systems. The HydroResolutions MIATA platforms combine all of the technology required to properly perform these tests into a comprehensive aquifer testing environment.
For additional information regarding the HydroResolutions DACS applications and capabilities visit the SERVICES/DATA ACQUISITION & CONTROLS SYSTEM Page.
