Mud Desander

Mud Desander Overview

The Mud Desander is the second-stage solids control unit in a drilling fluid solids control system. It removes sand-sized solids, typically in the 45–75 μm range, after the shale shaker and upstream of the desilter.

A hydrocyclone bank and linear motion vibrating screen are mounted on the same skid. The screen separates drilling fluid from the hydrocyclone underflow and returns it to the active mud system.

Desander sizing starts with the required flow rate. The TR range covers 60 to 280 m³/h across three model families, with 8-, 10-, or 12-inch hydrocyclones selected for different circulation rates in single- and dual-pump mud systems.

Working Principle of  Drilling Mud Desander

The hydrocyclone separates sand-sized solids from the drilling fluid by centrifugal force. A centrifugal pump feeds the fluid tangentially into each hydrocyclone, creating a high-speed vortex. Centrifugal force drives the heavier sand particles toward the cone wall and down the tapered section. The separated solids leave through the underflow nozzle.
Underflow drops onto the linear motion screen below the cyclone bank. The screen removes the drilling fluid carried with the solids and returns it to the mud tanks. Drilling fluid leaves through the hydrocyclone overflow and re-enters the circulating system.

Key Features

• Long service life: High-chrome cast iron or polyurethane hydrocyclones for different wear conditions.

• Reduced plugging: Pressurized umbrella-type "wet bottom" underflow discharge.

• Easy maintenance: Clamp-type cone mounting for quick replacement without special tools.

• Replacement compatibility: Compatible with selected Derrick and SWACO cone assemblies.

Mud Desander Technical Parameters

Applications of Solids Control Desander

TR Desanders remove sand-sized solids from drilling fluid and slurry treatment systems, including:

• Oil & gas drilling

• Coalbed methane drilling

• HDD mud recycling

• Foundation and bored pile drilling

• TBM slurry treatment

Selection Guide

Model selection starts with the actual flow rate at the desander inlet:

• Up to 60 m³/h: TRCS200-1S, single 8-inch hydrocyclone

• 60–120 m³/h: TRCS200-2S, two 8-inch hydrocyclones

• 120–240 m³/h: TRCS250-2S, two 10-inch hydrocyclones

• 240–280 m³/h: TRCS300-2S, two 12-inch hydrocyclones

Final model selection requires the actual inlet flow rate, mud properties, feed pressure, and available installation space. TR will confirm the model and configuration for the stated operating conditions.

FAQ

1. Is the TR Mud Desander API certified?

   Yes. TR Solids Control holds API certification for relevant solids control equipment. Certification documents can be provided upon request.

2. What is the delivery time for a TR Mud Desander?

   Lead time depends on the selected configuration and the factory production schedule.

3. Does the desander come with a warranty?

   Warranty coverage is specified in the quotation based on the agreed sales conditions.

4. Do you offer spare parts?

   Yes. Replacement hydrocyclones, screen panels and other wear parts are available for TR Mud Desanders.

TR Supply & Integration

TR Solids Control manufactures drilling fluid solids control equipment and complete mud treatment systems. Mud Desanders can be supplied as individual units or as part of a complete solids control package, with the equipment configuration matched to the process and site requirements.