Mobile Dual Phase Extraction (MDPE) is a proven remediation technology used to simultaneously remove contaminated groundwater and soil vapors from the subsurface. By applying a high-vacuum system through strategically placed extraction wells, MDPE can rapidly reduce contaminant mass while minimizing surface disruption and long-term operational impacts.

While MDPE is highly effective, it is not a simple “set it and forget it” solution. Successful MDPE projects require strong site understanding, careful system operation, and experienced field teams who can respond to changing subsurface conditions in real time.

Below are some of the most common challenges encountered during MDPE remediation projects, and how experienced teams overcome them to deliver effective, defensible results.

1. Variable Subsurface Conditions

Subsurface conditions rarely behave exactly as predicted. Even well-characterized sites can reveal variability once extraction begins.

Common challenges include:

• Heterogeneous soils impacting airflow and groundwater recovery

• Low-permeability zones limiting vacuum influence

• Uneven capture zones

• Inconsistent recovery rates across wells

These conditions can reduce system efficiency if not identified and addressed early.

How experienced teams overcome this

• Adjust vacuum levels and extraction rates based on field response

• Balance groundwater and vapor extraction to optimize performance

• Modify well operation strategies rather than relying on fixed assumptions

• Use field data to fine-tune system operation

Experience allows teams to interpret system response and adapt operations to site-specific conditions.

2. Achieving Effective Capture and Radius of Influence

A key challenge in MDPE remediation is ensuring the system is influencing the targeted treatment area effectively.

Potential issues include:

• Limited radius of influence due to soil conditions

• Short-circuiting along preferential pathways

• Reduced efficiency in tight or saturated formations

If capture is not optimized, contaminants may remain outside the effective treatment zone.

How experienced teams overcome this

• Conduct performance monitoring to evaluate vacuum influence

• Adjust extraction sequencing and operating parameters

• Temporarily shut down or rotate wells to rebalance the system

• Use field observations to guide operational changes

Understanding how subsurface conditions respond to extraction is critical to system success.

3. Site Access and Operational Constraints

MDPE systems are often deployed at active facilities, transportation corridors, or developed properties where access and operations must be carefully managed.

Common constraints include:

• Underground utilities

• Limited well placement options

• Ongoing site operations

• Restricted work windows

Poor planning or coordination can lead to delays or incomplete remediation coverage.

How experienced teams overcome this

• Design flexible system layouts using mobile equipment

• Coordinate closely with site owners and operators

• Adjust well placement and operation to accommodate constraints

• Sequence work to minimize disruption

Mobile MDPE systems allow experienced teams to adapt quickly while maintaining project momentum.

4. Equipment Operation and Field Safety

MDPE remediation involves high-vacuum systems, liquid handling, and treatment equipment that must be operated safely and efficiently.

Key considerations include:

• Managing vacuum pressures and flow rates

• Handling extracted groundwater and vapors

• Equipment reliability and maintenance

• Worker safety in active remediation environments

How experienced teams overcome this

• Conduct thorough pre-job planning and safety briefings

• Train crews specifically on MDPE equipment and system operation

• Monitor system performance continuously

• Shut down and adjust operations when conditions change

Safe, well-managed operations protect personnel while ensuring system effectiveness.

5. Bridging Design Assumptions and Field Performance

MDPE systems are designed using site data, modeling, and assumptions — but field performance often requires adjustments.

How experienced teams overcome this

• Treat MDPE operation as an adaptive process

• Maintain close communication between engineers and field crews

• Use operational data to refine system settings

• Document adjustments to support regulatory reporting

This integration between design and field execution leads to more efficient remediation and stronger regulatory confidence.

Why Experience Matters in MDPE Projects

MDPE success depends on more than installing equipment. It requires the ability to:

• Interpret system performance

• Adapt operations to subsurface response

• Balance efficiency, safety, and site constraints

• Execute consistently over the life of the project

Teams with hands-on MDPE experience bring practical insight that improves outcomes and reduces uncertainty.

Closing Thought

Mobile Dual Phase Extraction is a powerful remediation technology — but its effectiveness depends on experienced execution in the field.

At Talon/LPE, we pair technical understanding with field-driven decision-making to ensure MDPE systems perform as intended and remediation goals are met efficiently and responsibly. If you think MDPE may be right for your remediation project, contact Talon/LPE today at clientrelations@talonlpe.com or via phone at 806-350-8879.