Common Issues of Solids Control Equipment and How to Address Them

Solids control equipment plays a crucial role in drilling operations, ensuring efficient separation of drilling fluids from cuttings. However, like any industrial machinery, these systems can encounter operational challenges. Understanding these issues helps in maintaining optimal performance and minimizing downtime.

One frequent problem involves screen blinding, where mesh openings become clogged with sticky solids. This reduces separation efficiency and increases fluid loss. Regular cleaning and proper screen selection based on particle size distribution can prevent this issue. Some operations benefit from using pre-treated screens with anti-blinding coatings.

Equipment wear represents another significant challenge. The abrasive nature of drilling solids causes gradual deterioration of components like shale shaker screens, hydrocyclone liners, and centrifuge parts. Implementing a proactive maintenance schedule with periodic inspections helps identify wear before it affects performance. Using wear-resistant materials for critical components extends service life.

Improper equipment sizing frequently leads to suboptimal performance. Undersized units struggle to handle drilling fluid volumes, while oversized equipment wastes energy and space. Accurate flow rate calculations and proper system design ensure equipment matches specific operational requirements. Consulting with solids control equipment specialists during planning stages prevents this issue.

Vibration-related problems often occur in shale shakers. Excessive vibration damages structural components, while insufficient vibration reduces separation efficiency. Proper installation on level surfaces, regular bearing maintenance, and correct vibration parameter settings maintain optimal performance. Some modern shakers feature adjustable vibration settings for different drilling conditions.

Pump failures represent another common issue, particularly with centrifugal pumps handling abrasive fluids. Proper impeller selection, regular seal inspections, and maintaining correct operating speeds prevent premature failures. Progressive cavity pumps often provide better performance for certain applications due to their ability to handle solids-laden fluids.

If your project requires solids control equipment, choose Aipu Solids Control, it will be your best choice.