API Standard Solids Control Equipment For Oilfield Drilling

What is API Standard Solids Control?

API (American Petroleum Institute) standards ensure solids control equipment meets performance, safety, and quality benchmarks in oil and gas drilling. The core standard for solids control is API RP 13C (ISO 13501), which specifies testing procedures for evaluating and comparing equipment performance.

Key API Standards for Solids Control

1. API RP 13C: Primary standard for solids control equipment systems and shale shaker screens

2. API RP 13B-1/-2: Procedures for testing drilling fluid properties (density, viscosity, filtration)

3. API Q2: Quality management system certification for service organizations 

4. API Monogram: Product certification mark for equipment manufactured to API standards

The 5-Stage API Standard Solids Control System

Supporting Equipment: Vacuum Degasser (removes gases), Mud Agitator (maintains mud uniformity), Mud Pumps, and Mixing Hoppers.

1. Shale Shaker - The First Line of Defense

API RP 13C Requirements

1. Cut Point Testing: Determines the particle size where 50% pass through (D50) and 100% pass (D100)

2. Conductance Test: Measures fluid flow rate through screen (≥200 m³/(m²·h))

3. Non-Blank Open Area: Minimum screen openness for efficient separation

API-Compliant Features

1. Linear/Elliptical Motion: Meets vibration amplitude and frequency specifications

2. Screen Attachment: API-compliant hook strip or bolted designs for secure installation

3. Structural Integrity: Designed to withstand 3-8 G vibration forces

2. Desander - Removing Sand-Sized Solids

API Specifications

1. Hydrocyclone Design: Standardized cone angles (15°-20°) and inlet/outlet diameters

2. Flow Rate Capacity: 30-150 m³/h depending on API size classification

3. Underflow Configuration: API-defined "spray discharge" for efficient solids removal

Typical API Sizes

1. 10" (250mm) hydrocyclones for high-flow applications

2. 8" (200mm) for medium flows

3. 6" (150mm) for smaller rigs

3. Desilter - Handling Fine Silt Particles

API Requirements

1. Smaller Hydrocyclones: Typically 4" (100mm) or 5" (125mm) diameter

2. Higher Pressure Ratings: Designed for 6-10 bar operating pressure

3. Fine Separation Capability: Targets 5-20μm particles critical for mud quality

4. Mud Cleaner - Integrated Mid-Stage Cleaning

API Compliance

1. Combined Functionality: Must meet both desander and desilter standards simultaneously

2. Underflow Shaker: Integrated screen meets API RP 13C requirements

3. Solids Recovery: Designed to retain valuable weighting materials (e.g., barite)

5. Centrifuge - The Final Polishing Stage

API Considerations，Two Main Types:

1. High-Speed Centrifuge: 2,000-4,000 RPM for removing colloidal solids (2-10μm)

2. Barite Recovery Centrifuge: Lower speed (1,200-2,000 RPM) for weighting material retention

3. G-Force Requirements: API standardizes minimum G-force ratings for different mud types

Selecting API-Compliant Equipment

Key Considerations

1. Drilling Environment: Onshore/offshore, formation type, mud system (WBM/OBM/SBM)

2. Flow Rate Requirements: Match equipment capacity to rig output

3. Solids Characteristics: Abrasiveness, concentration, and particle size distribution

4. Integration Needs: Compatibility with existing mud system infrastructure

Choosing the right solids control equipment requires comprehensive consideration of drilling type, throughput, and solids characteristics. TR Solids Control, as API solids control equipment manufacturer, can customize oilfield solids control equipment to meet different needs, while also providing intelligent and modular technologies to achieve efficient and stable solids control.