Groundwater Supply

Waters Without Frontiers has these services and products available

Groundwater Supply

Groundwater contributes more than 80% of potable water supply to rural communities in Southern Africa. Waters Without Frontiers has extensive experience in the identification and development of groundwater resources for water supplies. The company’s expertise includes among others, the following:

Remote Sensing for borehole siting

The company uses latest satellite images and aerial photographs to identify lineaments associated with geological structure that influence groundwater occurrence and movement. We also use drone technology to carry out quick site reconnaissance to zoom in on interesting features on the ground.

Geophysical survey

The company employs three complimentary geophysical survey techniques, consisting of electromagnetic (EM) and magnetic traverses, and electro-seismic soundings.

Electromagnetic traverses are conducted to locate conductive saturated fracture zones and faults. A PCFDEM-24Bit frequency domain electromagnetic instrument was used. Boasting eight frequencies, the instrument takes eight measurements at each station, with each measurement corresponding to a different frequency. Each frequency in turn, corresponds to a different depth of ground penetration. The higher the frequency, the lower the depth of ground penetration and vice versa. The instrument can achieve ground penetration depth in excess of 300 metres. The instrument allows for the measurement of ground electrical conductivity variations in both the horizontal and vertical directions; thus enabling the production of two dimensional vertical conductivity sections or pseudo-sections.

Magnetic traverses are conducted to locate contacts between dolerite intrusion and the host rocks. These contacts are characterised by significant fracturing as explained earlier. Magnetic traverses were conducted along the same lines and station spacing as EM traverses.

Electro-Seismic Survey theoretically can pick the presence of a water table. The technique is based on the principle that when a seismic wave generated at the surface reaches the water table in permeable rock, the water is forced to move relative to its rock surroundings as the pulse passes. This motion creates a small electrical pulse that is measurable at the surface by pairs of electrodes close to the shot point. The technique is still at its infancy in South Africa; hence is being explored. Water strikes are indicated by spikes on seismic traces.

Sysmeic Survey
PCFDEM 24 Bit Electromagnetic survey equipment

Ground Water Development

  • Borehole drilling supervision and construction design,
  • Pumping test design and supervision,
  • Determination of long-term sustainable exploitation of groundwater,
  • Groundwater quality assessment,
  • Spring protection design and construction supervision,
  • Facilitation of groundwater use licence application,
  • Simulation of aquifer response to different exploitation scenarios using groundwater-modelling software.

Emergency Water Supply

One of the most important needs for communities hit by disasters, whether natural or man-made, is the provision of emergency safe and clean drinking water immediately after the disaster. Waters Without Frontiers has capacity to:

  • Assess water requirements of communities hit by the disaster,
  • Identify and mobilise emergency water supply resources to alleviate human suffering. Such resources include:
  • Trailer mounted mobile water purification plants,

  • Lifesaver bottles that have a filter which can make the most revolting water drinkable in seconds, enabling the use of water directly from the river.

  • Anti-bacteria tablets.

  • Tanker trucks to affected communities

Water Supply

At Waters Without Frontiers, we believe that access to clean and safe water is a fundamental right. Our team works tirelessly to identify new water sources and improve existing supply systems. We employ cutting-edge technology and innovative strategies to ensure the water we provide meets the highest standards of safety and cleanliness.

Environmental Investigations

Our commitment to environmental stewardship is at the heart of what we do. We conduct thorough investigations into the health of aquatic ecosystems, monitor changes in water quality, and study the effects of pollution. Our findings guide our efforts to mitigate environmental impact and promote sustainable practices.

Mine Dewatering

Mining operations often encounter challenges with groundwater. At Waters Without Frontiers, we specialize in managing these challenges. Our team designs and implements effective dewatering systems to control groundwater, ensuring the safety and efficiency of mining activities.

Ground water Modelling

Groundwater management is a complex task that requires precise prediction and monitoring. We use advanced mathematical models to simulate groundwater flow and distribution. These models help us understand aquifer systems, manage water resources effectively, and devise solutions for groundwater contamination problems.

Land Stability Investigations

Land stability is a critical factor in safe land use, especially in areas where water may pose a risk. Our team conducts comprehensive investigations into soil properties and geological hazards. The insights we gain from these investigations enable us to evaluate the risk of landslides and other hazards, ensuring the safety of communities and the environment.

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