API-Compliant Solids Control Equipment for Oilfield Drilling

What Does API Compliance Mean for Solids Control Equipment?

API (American Petroleum Institute) standards provide requirements for testing, quality control, and certification of oilfield equipment. In solids control applications, these standards are commonly used to verify equipment performance and ensure consistent manufacturing quality.

Key API Standards for Solids Control

1. API RP 13C (ISO 13501)

   Specifies testing procedures, labeling requirements, and performance classification for shale shaker screens.
   

2. API RP 13B-1 / API RP 13B-2

   Provides recommended procedures for testing drilling fluid properties, including density, viscosity, and filtration.

3. API Spec Q2

   Defines quality management requirements for oilfield service organizations. 

4. API Monogram Program

   Identifies products manufactured according to applicable API specifications.

5 Stages of Solids Control in Oil & Gas Drilling

During drilling, the returning mud carries drilled cuttings and solids of different sizes. TR's solids control system removes them in stages. This preserves fluid properties and reduces wear, and keeping the job efficient.

Additional equipment supports the solids control process:

• Vacuum Degasser: removes entrained gas from drilling fluid.

• Mud Agitator: keeps mud evenly mixed in tanks.

• Mud Pumps: transfers drilling fluid between treatment stages.

• Mixing Hoppers: mixes drilling additives into the mud system.

1. Shale Shaker : Primary Solids Removal

API RP 13C Testing

• Cut Point: Measures screen separation performance based on D50 and D100 values.

• Conductance: Measures fluid flow capacity through the screen.

• Open Area: Effective screening area for fluid handling.

Design Features

• Motion Type: Linear or elliptical vibration for efficient cuttings conveyance.

• Screen Mounting: Hook strip or bolted designs for secure installation.

• Structure: Designed to withstand continuous vibration during drilling.

2. Desander : Sand-Sized Solids Removal

Main Performance Factors

• Hydrocyclone Design: Cyclone size and configuration affect separation efficiency.

• Flow Capacity: Depends on cyclone size and operating conditions.

• Discharge Type: Spray discharge supports continuous solids removal.

Common Sizes

• 10" (250 mm) hydrocyclones for high-flow systems

• 8" (200 mm) hydrocyclones for medium-flow systems

• 6" (150 mm) hydrocyclones for compact drilling rigs

3. Desilter : Fine Solids Removal

Main Features

• Uses smaller hydrocyclones, typically 4" (100 mm) or 5" (125 mm).

• Removes fine silt that increases viscosity and affects rheology.

• Operates under typical drilling system pressure conditions.

4. Mud Cleaner : Combined Separation

Main Functions

• Combines desander, desilter, and shaker screen technologies.

• Uses hydrocyclones and screens for further solids removal.

• Recovers drilling fluid and retains valuable weighting materials.

5. Centrifuge : Final Fine Solids Control

Main Types:

• High-Speed Centrifuge: Removes ultra-fine solids and controls low-gravity solids.

• Barite Recovery Centrifuge: Recovers weighting materials while reducing unwanted solids.

• G-Force: Selected according to mud properties and separation requirements.

Solids Control Equipment Selection

1. Drilling Application: Drilling conditions, formation characteristics, and mud type (WBM, OBM, SBM).

2. Flow Capacity: Equipment capacity should match the required drilling fluid flow rate.

3. Solids Characteristics: Particle size, solids concentration, and abrasiveness.

4. System Compatibility: Designed to fit the existing mud system.

Selecting the right solids control equipment comes down to three things: drilling conditions, flow rate, and the solids you're dealing with. TR Solids Control offers API‑certified equipment and custom builds for different oilfield jobs. Our modular setups give you flexibility while keeping the mud where it needs to be, clean and on spec.