Surface casing is a protective steel pipe installed in the upper section of a drilled well to safeguard freshwater aquifers and provide structural integrity to the wellbore. It plays a crucial role in the overall drilling process by preventing contaminants from entering groundwater supplies and ensuring that the drilling operation is safe and efficient. Surface casing is often cemented in place to create a secure seal, which helps stabilize the well during exploratory drilling and other drilling operations.
congrats on reading the definition of surface casing. now let's actually learn it.