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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.