Directional Drilling Solids Control Equipment

Shale shakers are a critical component of an effective solids control system. They act as the first line of defense within the system to remove larger solids from drilling fluid, allowing portions of the system located further downstream to function more efficiently and effectively on smaller particles. Essentially, when solids pass over the surface of the vibrating screen of a shale shaker, the smaller particles can pass through with the liquid. In contrast, the larger solids are separated for elimination.

The key component of a shale shaker is the screen. Essentially, the screen acts as a gauge that either allows or doesn't allow particles of specific sizes to pass through. Those particles small enough to pass through will do so, while others will be blocked. The surfaces of these screens are typically constructed of multi-layered woven wire screen cloth. The quality of the screen utilized by the shaker typically indicates the overall quality of the shaker itself.

Some important characteristics of the most effective screens include:

  1. Multi-Layered Mesh Screens: Multi-layered mesh screens consist of at least two screen cloths, typically made of different types of mesh, which are mounted on a single screen panel, as illustrated in Figure Five. The openings of these screens can vary significantly in both shape and size, with the mesh being defined by the number of openings per linear inch. To effectively measure the mesh, begin at the center of one wire and count the number of openings between that point and an endpoint one inch further.
  2. Tensioned Stainless Steel Wire Mesh: It is important that wire mesh utilized in a shaker screen be resistant to corrosion and that it fits properly to provide a taut stretched upper surface to avoid damage to the equipment and poor solids cuts.
  3. API Qualification: Since the quality of screens varies significantly, it is essential to rely upon API qualifications to determine whether a screen meets internationally acceptable standards. Only API 13C-qualified screens should be implemented in the system to ensure an effective screen.