This Thursday, a batch of MD210 drilling fluid cleaners, manufactured by Xi’an KOSUN, has been successfully delivered to the site of a domestic oilfield drilling project as supporting equipment for the oilfield drilling solid control system.
The MD210 drilling fluid cleaner is a drilling fluid solid control equipment that integrates desander, desilter, and vibrating screen. It combines the performance of the above three devices and has the advantages of large processing capacity, fast processing speed, low energy consumption, and small footprint.
The MD210 drilling fluid cleaner combines a set of desander cyclones and a set of desilter cyclones on a vibrating screen. The drilling fluid is first separated by the desander cyclones or desilter cyclones, with the overflow returning to the circulating system and the underflow further screened by the vibrating screen.
Xi’an KOSUN is a professional company that provides customers with drilling fluid solid control equipment and complete mud treatment solutions. We welcome customers to call us for inquiries, and we will be dedicated to serving you!
Tags: drilling fluid cleaner, drilling fluid solid control equipment, manufacrurer, for sale
KOSUN- China Solids Control Leader&Drilling Waste Management Expert
In the fast-paced world of oil and gas drilling, maintaining clean and efficient drilling fluids is critical for success. An oilfield centrifuge is a game-changing piece of equipment that ensures optimal solids control, reduces operational costs, and enhances drilling performance.
Whether you're working on offshore rigs, horizontal drilling, or geothermal projects, a high-quality centrifuge can significantly improve your operations. In this article, we’ll explore why an oilfield centrifuge is a must-have, how it works, and how it can benefit your drilling projects.
What Is an Oilfield Centrifuge?
An oilfield centrifuge is a high-speed separation device designed to remove fine solids from drilling fluids (mud). Using centrifugal force, it efficiently separates particles as small as 2-5 microns, ensuring cleaner mud for reuse and reducing waste.
Key Features of a High-Performance Oilfield Centrifuge:
✔ High-Speed Bowl Rotation – Up to 3,000 RPM for precise separation
✔ Adjustable Settings – Control solids discharge and fluid clarity
✔ Durable Construction – Built to withstand harsh drilling environments
✔ Low Maintenance Design – Easy to service for minimal downtime
Why Your Drilling Operation Needs an Oilfield Centrifuge
1. Maximizes Drilling Efficiency
Removes harmful fine solids that can damage drill bits and pumps
Maintains ideal mud weight and viscosity for smoother drilling
2. Reduces Costs & Waste
Recycles drilling fluid, cutting down on fresh mud expenses
Minimizes disposal costs by reducing waste volume
3. Extends Equipment Lifespan
Prevents abrasive wear on mud pumps, shakers, and other machinery
Reduces downtime and repair costs
4. Environmentally Friendly
Lowers environmental impact by reducing fluid disposal
Helps meet strict industry regulations
How Does an Oilfield Centrifuge Work?
Mud Enters the Centrifuge – Contaminated drilling fluid is pumped into the system.
High-Speed Separation – The spinning bowl forces solids outward while clean fluid stays near the center.
Solids Discharge – A conveyor removes separated solids for disposal.
Clean Fluid Recirculation – Purified drilling mud is returned to the system for reuse.
This process ensures continuous, efficient drilling operations with minimal fluid loss.
In oil and gas drilling operations, cuttings are small pieces of rock and sediment that are broken apart by the drill bit and carried to the surface by drilling fluid (mud). These cuttings contain valuable drilling fluids, which, if not properly treated, can lead to waste disposal challenges, environmental concerns, and increased operational costs.
KOSUN, a leading manufacturer of solids control and waste management systems, provides advanced drill cuttings treatment solutions to efficiently separate, recover, and dispose of cuttings while minimizing environmental impact and maximizing cost savings.
Types of Drill Cuttings
Drill cuttings vary depending on the formation being drilled and the type of drilling fluid used:
Oil-Based Mud (OBM) Cuttings
Coated with oil-based drilling fluid, making them more challenging to treat.
Require specialized equipment like vertical cuttings dryers to reduce Oil on Cuttings (OOC) to acceptable levels (typically 3-5%).
Water-Based Mud (WBM) Cuttings
Less sticky and easier to handle compared to OBM cuttings.
Can often be treated with simpler separation methods, such as screw conveyors and centrifuges.
Synthetic-Based Mud (SBM) Cuttings
Similar to OBM cuttings but use synthetic oils, requiring specialized treatment to meet environmental regulations.
Increased waste disposal costs (higher volumes sent to landfills or thermal units).
Loss of valuable drilling fluids, leading to higher mud costs.
KOSUN’s drill cuttings treatment systems solve these challenges by:
✔ Recovering up to 95% of drilling fluids for reuse.
✔ Reducing OOC to as low as 3-5% (for OBM/SBM).
✔ Minimizing final waste volume, cutting thermal treatment costs.
KOSUN’s Drill Cuttings Treatment System
KOSUN provides a complete cuttings separation and drying system, including:
1. Vertical Cuttings Dryer (KSCD-930)
Specialized for OBM/SBM cuttings, reducing OOC to 3-5%.
Available with fixed-speed or VFD control for optimized performance.
2. Screw Conveyors
Transport cuttings from shakers to the dryer.
Configurable in horizontal or inclined layouts for flexible installation.
3. Telescopic Skid with Mud Recovery
Supports the vertical dryer and collects recovered drilling fluid.
Equipped with a transfer pump to return clean mud to the active system.
4. Cuttings Collection Skips/Tanks
Stores dried cuttings before final disposal (e.g., thermal desorption unit).
Applications: Onshore vs. Offshore
Onshore Rigs: Full cuttings treatment systems are commonly used.
Offshore Rigs: Due to space constraints, typically only vertical cuttings dryers are installed.
Conclusion
Drill cuttings are an unavoidable byproduct of drilling, but with KOSUN’s advanced treatment systems, operators can:
✅ Maximize drilling fluid recovery (reducing costs).
✅ Minimize environmental impact (meeting strict regulations).
✅ Lower waste disposal expenses (optimizing thermal unit operations).
For efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly cuttings management, KOSUN’s solutions are the ideal choice for modern drilling operations.
Contact KOSUN today to learn more about our drill cuttings treatment systems!
At KOSUN, we understand that during oil and gas drilling operations, the returning drilling fluid carries significant amounts of sand, rock cuttings, and chemical impurities back to the solids control system. If these contaminants are not effectively removed before recirculation, they can compromise drilling fluid performance, accelerate equipment wear, cause blockages, reduce operational efficiency, and even create safety hazards.
That’s why KOSUN emphasizes that selecting the right shale shaker screen is far from a "minor detail"—it is a critical decision that ensures efficient drilling fluid purification and stable equipment operation. With our advanced screening solutions, we help operators maintain optimal performance, extend equipment lifespan, and enhance overall drilling safety and efficiency. Trust KOSUN to deliver the precision and reliability your solids control system demands.
Types of Shale Shaker Screens
Different types of shaker screens feature various characteristics in terms of material, mesh shape, number of layers, and structural design, making them suitable for different operational environments. As a long-time supplier of drilling consumables for onshore drilling projects, KOSUN is committed to providing customers with mainstream shale shaker screen products currently available on the market. Below, we will detail several major screen types, analyze their benefits and ideal usage scenarios, and help you pinpoint the most suitable solution to enhance overall drilling efficiency and reduce operational costs.
5 Main Types of Shale Shaker Screens
Shale shaker screens can be categorized in many ways – by material, mesh shape, number of layers, or brand, among other dimensions. However, one of the more popular approaches at present is classification by structural type. Different structural types of screens exhibit unique features in material selection, mesh design, and layer composition. Below, we will focus on several common structural types to help you understand their strengths and weaknesses, so you can choose the right screen for your specific drilling environment.
1. Hook Strip Flat Screen
Hook strip flat screens are multilayer screens designed specifically for shale shakers. They typically consist of two or three layers of 304 or 316 stainless steel wire cloth affixed to a steel backing plate. A fine upper mesh layer provides accurate filtration, while coarser middle and lower layers supply support to maintain stable performance under high loads. The steel backing plate (available in various thicknesses with hexagonal, rectangular, or square cutouts) can be adapted for various shale shakers. Its partitioned design effectively prevents localized damage from spreading, significantly extending service life.
Hook Strip Flat Shale Shaker Screen
Renowned for their superior wear resistance and high throughput, these screens can effectively separate solids even when processing large volumes of drilling fluid, and they are easy to remove and maintain. The hook strip design simplifies screen replacement and reduces downtime. Compliant with API RP13C standards, hook strip flat screens are widely used in oil and gas drilling, mining, and construction industries that require efficient solids control. They are suitable for shale shakers such as the Derrick 500 series.
2. Pyramid Shale Shaker Screen
Pyramid shaker screens, sometimes referred to as three-dimensional or wave-type shaker screens, increase the screening area by 120% to 150% compared to conventional flat screens, greatly improving solid-liquid separation efficiency. They are composed of two or three layers of 304 or 316 stainless steel cloth tightly bonded to a perforated metal backing plate. A coarse bottom layer of wire cloth adds structural support and extends the overall service life. By layering meshes of varying densities, these screens enable more precise separation of different particle sizes while maintaining stability under heavy loads.
Pyramid Shale Shaker Screen
These screens can rapidly process large volumes of drilling mud, delivering drier cuttings and reducing residual solids in the fluid, and similar shale shakers, pyramid screens are widely applied in oil, gas, and mining operations that require robust, high-volume solids control.
3. Steel Frame Shale Shaker Screen
Steel frame shale shaker screens bond two or three layers of 304 or 316 stainless steel cloth onto a metal frame. By selecting the appropriate mesh count (from 20 to 325) and using perforated backing plates of different sizes, these screens achieve highly efficient solid-liquid separation. The bottom metal frame and reinforcement ribs provide overall structural strength, while the properly tensioned top layers ensure screen stability during filtration. The screen cloth is divided into multiple independent small panels, effectively preventing localized damage from spreading and allowing quick patching with rubber plugs to minimize downtime.
Steel Frame Shale Shaker Screen
This type of screen is noted for its excellent wear, corrosion, and high-temperature resistance. It is suitable for solids control and mud circulation systems in oil and gas drilling, as well as for mud separation in mining and industrial applications. With enhanced durability and a longer service life, steel frame screens handle large fluid volumes effectively, ensuring continuous operation in complex drilling conditions and helping reduce total operational costs. , among others, commonly employs this type of screen.
4. Polyurethane Frame Shale Shaker Screen
Polyurethane frame shale shaker screens feature a high-strength polyurethane framework combined with two or three layers of 304 or 316 stainless steel wire cloth, delivering exceptional solid-liquid separation and long-term stable performance. The polyurethane frame offers outstanding impact and shock resistance, as well as excellent corrosion resistance—ideal for high-wear and chemically corrosive environments. Its partitioned grid design helps prevent localized damage from spreading. In addition, the screen is equipped with specially designed rubber plugs for rapid repairs, reducing both downtime and maintenance costs. A wedge-style quick-tensioning mechanism further simplifies installation and replacement, boosting operational efficiency.
Polyurethane Frame Shale Shaker Screen
Commonly used with SWACO shale shakers in the oil and gas sector, polyurethane frame screens effectively remove solids from drilling mud, optimize solids control systems, and enhance drilling efficiency. They also excel in mining and construction applications by ensuring reliable material screening, particularly where screens must be replaced frequently.
5. Composite Shale Shaker Screen
Composite shale shaker screens integrate the advantages of both metallic and non-metallic materials. Typically made of two to four layers of stainless steel wire cloth fused to a composite frame, they are bonded into a single unit, then combined with metal reinforcement plates through spot welding or other adhesives to form a high-strength structure with a large screening area. Their effective filtration area surpasses that of flat screens, and localized damage will not spread rapidly, as specialized rubber plugs can be used for repairs.
Composite Shale Shaker Screen
Composite materials may include carbon steel plate, stainless steel plate, or aluminum plate. Stainless steel wire cloth is most frequently used, with a coarse bottom layer for support. Composite frames undergo specialized anti-corrosion treatment to cope with high-corrosion and high-humidity conditions. This makes them well-suited for drilling scenarios involving fine particles, long operational hours, or extreme environments. Furthermore, they are cost-effective, striking a sound balance between performance and budget considerations.
Other Ways to Classify Shale Shaker Screens
As mentioned earlier, shale shaker screens can also be divided by material, mesh count, application scenario, equipment brand, and number of layers. Each classification approach can be tailored to specific field conditions, optimizing drilling mud circulation, improving solids control efficiency, lowering maintenance costs, and guaranteeing both continuous and economically viable drilling operations.
Below, we discuss how these dimensions impact shale shaker screen selection:
1. By Screen Material
Screen material directly influences its wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and lifespan. In normal drilling operations, stainless steel wire cloth is widely used for its strength and resistance to corrosion. In offshore environments or in conditions prone to chemical corrosion, polyurethane and composite screens are more suitable. Polyurethane screens are particularly favored for high-humidity, chemically active mud environments due to their lightweight, shock resistance, and chemical resistance.
304 stainless steel wire mesh
2. By Mesh Count
Mesh count determines a screen’s ability to filter out solids. Low mesh counts (20–60) are for coarse screening, filtering out larger cuttings and gravel. Mid-range mesh counts (60–120) target medium-sized solids, while high mesh counts (120–325 and above) remove fine particles to achieve high-purity drilling fluid. This tiered approach meets all filtration needs, from initial screening to high-precision separation.
Schematic Diagram of 10–1000 Mesh Screen Openings
3. By Application Scenario
The choice of screen type varies depending on specific operations. For onshore drilling, hook strip flat screens and steel frame screens are popular for their cost-effectiveness and ease of replacement, meeting most routine requirements. Offshore conditions are more demanding—thus, polyurethane frame or composite screens are commonly selected to combat high humidity, severe corrosion, and significant wear. Additionally, in deep wells, complex well conditions, or extended drilling operations, composite screens with their lightweight and high strength are a reliable choice.
4. By Equipment Brand
Another crucial factor is the brand of the shale shaker. Notable manufacturers such as Derrick and SWACO offer specialized screen models tailored to their own equipment, which ensures optimal solids separation efficiency, minimized adjustment time, and improved screening performance. While Western-brand screens are known for their durability, they can be quite expensive. Hence, cost-effective alternatives from China are increasingly favored by drilling service providers in the Middle East, Africa, and other regions seeking both performance and value.
As the core component of a shale shaker, the shale shaker screen plays a pivotal role in drilling fluid purification. As described above, different structural screen types each have unique advantages depending on well conditions and operational requirements. Proper selection and application of suitable shale shaker screens can enhance the efficiency of solids separation, extend equipment service life, and significantly reduce both drilling and maintenance costs.
We hope the analysis and suggestions provided in this article will be valuable to drilling engineers and procurement managers, helping you achieve efficient, safe, and economically viable drilling operations.
Oil sludge is a major environmental and economic challenge in the petroleum industry. Generated during drilling, refining, and storage operations, it contains valuable hydrocarbons mixed with water, solids, and contaminants. KOSUN Solids Control, a leader in oilfield waste management, provides cutting-edge oil sludge separation technologies that maximize oil recovery while ensuring eco-friendly disposal.
The KOSUN Solids Control System is an integrated solution designed to remove drilled solids, maintain optimal drilling fluid properties, and reduce environmental impact in oil & gas operations. As a leading manufacturer with 30+ years of experience, KOSUN delivers reliable solids control equipment for both onshore and offshore applications.
This comprehensive guide covers:
✔ Core components of KOSUN solids control system
✔ How the 5-stage purification process works
✔ Key benefits over conventional systems
✔ Industry applications and case studies
5-Stage Solids Control Process by KOSUN
1. Shale Shakers (Primary Removal)
Function: Remove large cuttings (74+ μm)
KOSUN Advantage:
Linear/elliptical motion models
API-compliant screen design
20-30% higher throughput than industry average
2. Desanders & Desilters (Secondary Removal)
Particle Removal Range:
Desanders: 45-74 μm
Desilters: 15-44 μm
KOSUN Technology:
Hydrocyclone clusters with wear-resistant liners
Optimized cone geometry for 98% separation efficiency
Xi 'an Kosun undertakes Kuwait 50 tons of landing sludge treatment system has completed all product delivery, this is a set of high-tech integrated processing system,
which is customized by Xi 'an Kosun professional production, aiming to provide efficient and environmentally friendly sludge treatment solutions for Kuwait.
The design and production process of the equipment fully reflects the technical strength and professionalism of Xi 'an Kosun.
The system modules include spiral washing module, screening module, sand and oil removal module, waste oil separation module,
centrifugal separation module, air flotation module, water circulation module, heating system and electrical control system.
The whole system has the advantages of efficient processing capacity, easy operation and easy maintenance,
which can effectively treat oily sludge waste and meet the local environmental protection requirements.
In the oil and gas industry, the efficiency and effectiveness of drilling operations heavily depend on the quality of solids control systems. Among the leading names in this field is KOSUN, a globally recognized manufacturer of high-performance solids control equipment. With decades of experience and a commitment to innovation, KOSUN has established itself as a trusted partner for drilling contractors worldwide. This article explores the features, benefits, and applications of KOSUN solids control equipment, highlighting its role in enhancing drilling operations.
Introduction to KOSUN Solids Control Equipment
KOSUN specializes in designing and manufacturing advanced solids control systems that cater to the demanding needs of the oil and gas industry. The company offers a comprehensive range of equipment, including shale shakers, centrifuges, mud cleaners, degassers, and more. KOSUN's products are engineered to remove unwanted solids from drilling fluids, ensuring optimal fluid properties and improving overall drilling efficiency.
KOSUN's solids control equipment is widely used in various drilling applications, including oil and gas exploration, horizontal directional drilling (HDD), and geothermal drilling. The company's solutions are known for their reliability, durability, and ability to perform in challenging environments.
Key Features of KOSUN Solids Control Equipment
KOSUN's solids control systems are designed with cutting-edge technology and user-friendly features. Some of the standout characteristics include:
High-Efficiency Shale Shakers:
KOSUN's shale shakers are equipped with high-quality screens and advanced vibration mechanisms to ensure effective separation of solids from drilling fluids. They are designed to handle high flow rates and provide consistent performance.
Robust Centrifuges:
KOSUN's decanter centrifuges are capable of removing fine solids and colloids from drilling fluids. These centrifuges are built to operate under extreme conditions, making them ideal for demanding drilling environments.
Integrated Mud Cleaners:
KOSUN's mud cleaners combine the functions of shale shakers and hydrocyclones to deliver superior solids control. They are highly effective in managing high-density drilling fluids.
Efficient Degassers:
KOSUN's degassers are designed to remove harmful gases, such as methane, from drilling fluids. This ensures the safety of personnel and equipment while maintaining the fluid's properties.
Customizable Solutions:
KOSUN offers tailored solids control systems to meet the specific needs of different drilling projects. Whether it's a land-based rig or an offshore operation, KOSUN provides solutions that maximize efficiency and performance.
Durability and Reliability:
KOSUN's equipment is built to withstand harsh operating conditions, ensuring long service life and minimal downtime. The use of high-quality materials and precision engineering makes KOSUN products a reliable choice for drilling contractors.
Benefits of Using KOSUN Solids Control Equipment
KOSUN's solids control systems deliver significant advantages to drilling operations, including:
Enhanced Drilling Efficiency: By maintaining clean drilling fluids, KOSUN equipment reduces friction and wear on drilling tools, leading to faster and more efficient operations.
Cost Savings: KOSUN's systems extend the life of drilling fluids and reduce equipment maintenance costs, resulting in substantial savings for drilling contractors.
Improved Safety: The removal of gases and fine solids from drilling fluids reduces the risk of equipment failure and accidents, ensuring a safer working environment.
Versatility: KOSUN's solutions are suitable for a wide range of drilling applications, from conventional oil and gas drilling to specialized projects like HDD and geothermal drilling.
Applications of KOSUN Solids Control Equipment
KOSUN's solids control systems are widely used in various drilling scenarios, including:
Oil and Gas Exploration:
KOSUN equipment is essential for maintaining the quality of drilling fluids in both onshore and offshore drilling operations.
Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD):
KOSUN's compact and efficient systems are ideal for HDD projects, where space and performance are critical.
Geothermal Drilling:
KOSUN's robust equipment can handle the high temperatures and challenging conditions associated with geothermal drilling.
Coalbed Methane (CBM) Drilling:
KOSUN's degassers and centrifuges are particularly useful in CBM drilling, where gas removal is a priority.
Drilling mud is a vital component in oil and gas exploration, but its effectiveness diminishes as it accumulates solid particles. Drilling mud cleaning systems are designed to address this issue, ensuring consistent performance and cost savings.
Centrifuges: Separate ultra-fine particles and recover valuable liquids.
How It Works
The system processes contaminated mud through multiple stages, each removing specific particle sizes. Cleaned mud is then returned to the drilling cycle, while solids are disposed of safely.
