Analysis of unsteady flow toward an artesian well by three‐dimensional finite elements

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Abstract
A numerical method based on three‐dimensional finite elements is presented for determining the unsteady drawdown around an artesian well. The uniqueness of the method lies in the use of cylindrical elements, the stiffness matrix of which can be easily derived. The method was programed for a high‐speed computer, and the capability of the computer program is described. A comparison between the finite element and the exact analytical solutions for some simple cases indicates that the use of cylindrical elements yields accurate results. An example is given to illustrate the application of the method to non‐homogeneous and asymmetric aquifers where the hydrogeologic boundaries can be approximated by the cylindrical elements.

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