In modern construction and utility installation projects, such as hydrovac excavation and horizontal directional drilling (HDD), managing the resulting slurry waste efficiently is crucial for both productivity and environmental responsibility. GN Solids Control specializes in designing and manufacturing advanced waste management systems tailored for hydrovac slurry and directional drill mud treatment. A recent system was successfully supplied for a client in America, showcasing an effective solution for transforming project waste into reusable resources.

The primary goal of this system is to employ liquid-solid separation technology to process the soil, “soup,” or slurry generated during hydrovac or HDD operations. This process yields reusable solids for construction applications and clean water suitable for discharge. It’s important to note that the slurry treated is typically contaminant-free, originating from utility work in public right-of-ways or from drilling activities for installing underground pipes and utilities.

This comprehensive separation system consists of several key modules working in sequence:

1. Coarse Screening Module
The process begins with a coarse vibration screen, which removes larger solids from the incoming slurry. Positioned below this shaker is a catch tank equipped with two agitators, one on each side, to prevent solid particles from settling. An abrasion-resistant submersible slurry pump then transfers the pre-screened material to the next stage for further treatment.

2. Fine Screening Module
This module integrates a fine shale shaker and a desilter unit onto a single skid. The tank beneath is divided into two compartments. Material from the coarse vibration screen’s underflow is pumped to the fine shale shaker, which separates solids larger than 300 microns. The liquid underflow from the fine shaker then drops into the first compartment of the tank. From there, it is pumped to the desilter for removal of even finer particles. The desilter itself includes an underflow shaker to dry the solids discharged from its hydrocyclone cones. Multiple mud agitators are installed on the tank to ensure consistent mixing of the slurry.

3. Desilter Module
The desilter unit is a critical component for fine solids removal. It uses hydrocyclone technology to separate fine particles from the liquid phase, significantly cleaning the slurry. The dried solids from the desilter’s cones are efficiently handled by its integrated shaker.

4. Decanter Centrifuge Module
For final, high-precision separation, the system features a decanter centrifuge module. This module includes a telescopic skid for secure mounting of the decanter centrifuge, a dedicated catch tank for collecting the centrifuge’s discharged water, and a centrifugal pump for transferring this clarified water.

By combining these modules, GN’s Hydrovac Slurry Separation System ensures a thorough treatment process. It effectively handles various slurry consistencies, from thicker “soup” to standard slurry, recovering valuable solid material and producing clean water. This not only promotes sustainability by reducing waste and enabling water reuse but also enhances operational efficiency on-site for our clients in America and worldwide.

In a significant step towards enhancing drilling efficiency and environmental safety, a customized 3-package mud desilter unit is set for deployment at an offshore platform in South America. This advanced system is designed to optimize solids control in drilling operations, featuring desilters, and integrated mud tanks—all engineered for seamless transportation and setup.

A key highlight of this unit is its innovative design, which allows the desilters to be housed within the mud tanks during transit. This streamlined approach not only simplifies logistics but also reduces installation time, making it an ideal solution for remote offshore environments.

The heart of the setup includes three high-performance GNZS752 series desilters, known for their efficiency in removing fine solids from drilling fluids. Complementing these are shale shakers, which serve as the first phase of solids control in the drilling fluids processing system. Regarded as critical components in the drilling mud system, shale shakers significantly influence the overall performance of the solids control system.

GN Solids Control offers tailored solutions by designing double or triple shaker configurations on a single skid, accompanied by custom connecting manifolds to suit specific client needs. In line with current industry demands, GN provides both third-generation linear motion shale shakers and fourth-generation balanced elliptical shale shakers, ensuring versatility and top-tier performance.

The GNZS linear motion shale shaker incorporates advanced domestic and international technologies, combined with GN’s proprietary innovations. With a complete series available, these shakers are built to meet diverse operational requirements. Field feedback consistently highlights their advantages, including high G-force, expansive screen area, compact structure, and excellent cost-effectiveness.

This delivery underscores a growing emphasis on reliable, high-efficiency solids control systems in the global offshore drilling sector, supporting both operational excellence and sustainable practices.

In modern construction and utility installation projects, such as hydrovac excavation and horizontal directional drilling (HDD), managing the resulting slurry waste efficiently is crucial for both productivity and environmental responsibility. GN Solids Control specializes in designing and manufacturing advanced waste management systems tailored for hydrovac slurry and directional drill mud treatment. A recent system was successfully supplied for a client in America, showcasing an effective solution for transforming project waste into reusable resources.

The primary goal of this system is to employ liquid-solid separation technology to process the soil, “soup,” or slurry generated during hydrovac or HDD operations. This process yields reusable solids for construction applications and clean water suitable for discharge. It’s important to note that the slurry treated is typically contaminant-free, originating from utility work in public right-of-ways or from drilling activities for installing underground pipes and utilities.

This comprehensive separation system consists of several key modules working in sequence:

1. Coarse Screening Module
The process begins with a coarse vibration screen, which removes larger solids from the incoming slurry. Positioned below this shaker is a catch tank equipped with two agitators, one on each side, to prevent solid particles from settling. An abrasion-resistant submersible slurry pump then transfers the pre-screened material to the next stage for further treatment.

2. Fine Screening Module
This module integrates a fine shale shaker and a desilter unit onto a single skid. The tank beneath is divided into two compartments. Material from the coarse vibration screen’s underflow is pumped to the fine shale shaker, which separates solids larger than 300 microns. The liquid underflow from the fine shaker then drops into the first compartment of the tank. From there, it is pumped to the desilter for removal of even finer particles. The desilter itself includes an underflow shaker to dry the solids discharged from its hydrocyclone cones. Multiple mud agitators are installed on the tank to ensure consistent mixing of the slurry.

3. Desilter Module
The desilter unit is a critical component for fine solids removal. It uses hydrocyclone technology to separate fine particles from the liquid phase, significantly cleaning the slurry. The dried solids from the desilter’s cones are efficiently handled by its integrated shaker.

4. Decanter Centrifuge Module
For final, high-precision separation, the system features a decanter centrifuge module. This module includes a telescopic skid for secure mounting of the decanter centrifuge, a dedicated catch tank for collecting the centrifuge’s discharged water, and a centrifugal pump for transferring this clarified water.

By combining these modules, GN’s Hydrovac Slurry Separation System ensures a thorough treatment process. It effectively handles various slurry consistencies, from thicker “soup” to standard slurry, recovering valuable solid material and producing clean water. This not only promotes sustainability by reducing waste and enabling water reuse but also enhances operational efficiency on-site for our clients in America and worldwide.

We are excited to announce the successful preparation and dispatch of 16 advanced sets of drilling waste management equipment for a prominent overseas oilfield service company. This comprehensive package includes both Drilling Mud Decanter Centrifuges and Vertical Cuttings Dryers, designed to enhance operational efficiency and environmental sustainability in demanding drilling operations.

Each Decanter Centrifuge System Includes:

Drilling Mud Decanter Centrifuge: For efficient separation and recovery of valuable drilling fluids from solids.

Lifting Stand: Provides adjustable height for optimal operational positioning and ease of maintenance.

Centrifuge Feeding Screw Pump: Ensures consistent and reliable feeding of drilling fluid into the centrifuge.

Each Cuttings Dryer System Includes:

Vertical Cuttings Dryer: Effectively reduces the oil-on-cuttings content, ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

Dryer Stand: A robust structural support for safe and stable operation.

Flushing Screw Pump: Delivers high-pressure fluid for cleaning and facilitating the drying process.

Discharge System: Allows for the automated and efficient removal of processed solids.

This tailored equipment solution is engineered to help our client minimize waste, reduce drilling fluid costs, and adhere to strict environmental regulations. By deploying these 16 sets, the oilfield service company is well-equipped to handle large-scale projects with greater efficiency and a reduced ecological footprint.

We are proud to support the global energy sector with high-quality, reliable machinery designed for performance and durability.

1. High Processing Capacity: With a maximum handling capacity of up to 360 m³/h (depending on the model), GN’s triple shale shaker efficiently processes large mud volumes—critical for high-rate drilling operations common in the Middle East. The shakers feature adjustable vibration intensity and optimized screen angles, ensuring consistent separation even with heavy, high-solids mud. For detailed specifications on different models, check out GN’s Shale Shaker Product Line.

2. Superior Particle Separation: The integrated mud cleaner uses high-efficiency hydrocyclones to target fine particles (down to 20-40 microns) that escape the primary shakers. These hydrocyclones work in tandem with a secondary shaker deck, ensuring that nearly all usable mud is recovered. This level of purification reduces the need for fresh mud additives, lowering operational expenses significantly. GN’s hydrocyclones are part of a comprehensive solids control system; learn more about their design and performance on the Hydrocyclone Product Page.

3. Durability for Harsh Conditions: Middle Eastern drilling sites are known for extreme temperatures and dusty environments. GN’s equipment is built to withstand these challenges: the shaker frames are constructed from heavy-duty steel, and all electrical components are IP54-rated for dust and water resistance. The screens, a critical component of the system, are made from high-wear polyurethane or stainless steel mesh, ensuring long service life even with abrasive drill cuttings. To explore GN’s durable screen options, visit the Shaker Screens Page.

4. Easy Maintenance & Compliance: GN prioritizes user-friendly design. The triple shale shaker features quick-change screen systems, allowing operators to replace screens in minutes—minimizing downtime. Additionally, the system is designed to meet the Middle East’s strict environmental regulations, with enclosed mud tanks and spill-proof designs that prevent soil or water contamination.