Even the most robust shale shaker can encounter operational issues during demanding drilling campaigns. The key to minimizing downtime lies in recognizing symptoms early and applying proven solutions quickly.
Screen Blinding and Fluid Throughput
Screen blinding — where fine particles pack into screen openings — is one of the most frequent problems. When blinding occurs, fluid pools on the surface instead of passing through, reducing capacity. Causes include excessively fine screen mesh, high clay content, or insufficient vibration. Solutions include switching to a slightly coarser mesh, increasing G-force, or using anti-blinding surface treatments. Aipu shakers allow quick screen changes and vibration adjustments for rapid response.
Structural and Motor Issues
Excessive or uneven vibration often signals mechanical problems like unbalanced motors, loose mounting bolts, or worn isolation springs. Check that motors rotate in correct direction at synchronized speed. Inspect spring mounts for cracks and structural welds for fatigue damage. Motor failures typically manifest through abnormal noise or overheating, with bearing failure being the most common root cause. Having genuine Aipu spare parts on hand and following the manufacturer's maintenance schedule minimizes the impact of any issues. For immediate assistance, contact Aipu at info@aipusolidcontrol.com.
