Shale Shaker Series-Parallel Flow Conversion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drilling fluid processing systems face challenges in efficiently separating lost circulation material from drilling fluid, as conventional methods are prone to height restrictions and fine screen issues, leading to incomplete separation and re-circulation of undesirable materials.
Innovation Solution
A novel shale shaker system with multiple screens at different levels and a conversion apparatus that allows for selective switching between series and parallel fluid flow paths, enabling effective separation and recovery of lost circulation material by using a vibratable basket and screen assemblies with movable gates or flow channeling for mode conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple screens are used at multiple levels to process drilling fluid, then the separation capability is improved, but the system becomes susceptible to height restrictions and fine screen problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the screen configuration changeable between series and parallel arrangements. The screen assemblies can be repositioned using movable support structures, allowing the system to adapt its configuration dynamically based on operational needs, thereby resolving the contradiction between separation capability and system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing screen assemblies that can serve multiple functions - operating in both series and parallel configurations. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware to address different separation requirements without adding dedicated components for each mode, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high separation capability.
2Measurement precision
If a conventional two step screening process is used to separate lost circulation material, then separation is achieved, but undesirable material can be coated with fine material and re-circulated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamics by enabling flexible switching between series and parallel screen configurations. This dynamic adjustment allows optimization of the screening process to prevent fine material from coating undesirable particles, thereby improving separation completeness while maintaining high separation accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the flow distribution parameters through configurable screen arrangements. By changing from series to parallel configuration, the system alters how fluid and solids are distributed across screens, preventing the coating effect that occurs in conventional two-step processes and ensuring more complete separation.
3Ease of manufacture
If screens are sealed in place on screen deck, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different flow paths is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by replacing fixed, sealed screens with movable screen assemblies that can be repositioned between series and parallel configurations. This dynamic capability provides flow path flexibility while maintaining relative structural simplicity through the use of straightforward movable support structures rather than complex sealed arrangements.
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 system effectively separates lost circulation material and similar-sized solids from drilling fluid, allowing for their recovery and re-introduction into the drilling mud system, improving the efficiency of drilling fluid processing and reducing the need for continuous introduction of new lost circulation materials.
Implementation Method 1
vibrating apparatus for vibrating one or more screens
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are disclosed employing a shale shaker for processing a mixture of drilling fluid and solids with multiple screen assemblies and conversion apparatus for switching flow to the screen assemblies between series flow and parallel flow; and in one aspect, a screen or screens for screening lost circulation material.