Pivotable Settling Tank for Drilling Fluid Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional drilling fluid processing systems require frequent and labor-intensive cleaning due to particle buildup in components, particularly the used drilling fluid box, and often experience uneven fluid flow, which affects the efficiency of the separation process.
Innovation Solution
A drilling fluid reclamation unit with a pivotable settling tank and filtering screen design that allows for easy cleaning and uniform fluid flow, featuring a used fluid inlet with an open top and outlet positioned for efficient fluid distribution onto the screen, along with a movable flapper valve to regulate fluid outflow and promote consistent filtration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional used drilling fluid box is used, then the system can process drilling fluid, but the box requires frequent and labor-intensive cleaning due to particle buildup
Solution Approach 1:
The settling tank is made pivotable between a first position (for normal operation) and a second position (for cleaning), transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that can be easily reconfigured for maintenance without requiring disassembly or extensive labor
2Productivity
If a conventional settling tank design is used, then fluid can be processed, but the flow of drilling fluid is uneven, affecting separation efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The settling tank incorporates a specific internal structure with a distributed array of outlets positioned at predetermined locations, creating localized flow distribution zones that collectively achieve uniform fluid flow across the filtering screen, preventing both pooling and dry spots
Solution Approach 2:
The tank design pre-distributes the incoming fluid through multiple outlets before it reaches the filtering screen, ensuring uniform flow distribution is established in advance rather than relying on natural flow patterns that create uneven distribution
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design facilitates easier maintenance and improved fluid flow, enhancing the separation efficiency and throughput capacity by allowing for effective debris removal and fluid recycling with reduced effort and increased system reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The settling tank is configured to help filter the used drilling fluid and to deposit the used drilling fluid onto the shaker screen
Implementation Method 2
The bed is vibrated (or otherwise moved) as the material to be separated is introduced onto the screen, which moves the relatively large size material along the screen
Data Source
AI summary
A reclamation unit including a frame and a settling tank. The settling tank being pivotably mounted to the frame, the settling tank being pivotable between a first position and a second position. The settling tank defining at least a partially open top, the at least partially open top being configured and arranged to receive a fluid when the settling tank is in the first position. The settling tank also being configured to promote emptying of the fluid from the at least partially open top when the settling tank is pivoted into a given second position.