New Technology Magazine

M-I SWACO Introduces New Dual-Deck Shale Shaker To Improve Solids Control Performance

HOUSTON, Tex. -- M-I SWACO, a Schlumberger company, has announced the introduction of the MD-2 dual-deck shale shaker. When combined with DURAFLO composite screens, the MD-2 shaker provides optimal solids control performance for drilling applications.

“As well construction costs continue to rise, today’s shale shakers must be capable of maintaining optimum fluid properties to maximize drilling efficiency,” said Joe Bacho, president, M-I SWACO. “The durable construction and optimal solids control performance of the MD-2 shaker provides unmatched solids control for any environment.”

The development of the MD-2 shale shaker was the result of customers’ requests for a durable mid-range shaker suitable for both onshore and offshore applications. M-I SWACO developed the dual-deck shale shaker using the proven design of the offshore-suited MD-3 triple-deck shaker, and also utilizes design elements from the onshore-suited MONGOOSE PRO shale shaker. Design validation for the MD-2 shaker was conducted at the SWECO manufacturing facility in Florence, Kentucky.

In a field trial in South Texas a customer was drilling a 22-inch hole using two conventional shakers, but due to capacity limitations there was a low rate of penetration (ROP). To optimize the solids control performance, one MD-2 shaker was provided, which processed drilling fluid at a rate of 658 gallons per minute, or more than twice the two conventional shakers combined. Additionally, the MD-2 shaker handled 100 per cent of the flow throughout the top hole section, thereby maximizing flow rate and maintaining the desired ROP.

The small footprint of the MD-2 dual-deck shale shaker makes it ideal for space-restricted onshore and offshore drilling rigs where high-capacity separation efficiency and operational flexibility are needed. In addition, the combination of the MD-2 shaker and DURAFLO composite screens provides nearly double the capacity of a standard single-deck shaker.

Schlumberger is the world’s leading supplier of technology, integrated project management and information solutions to customers working in the oil and gas industry worldwide.