V-Shaped Tank Solids Separation System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for separating solids from fluid streams, such as drilling mud, are inefficient and require multiple stages with complex equipment configurations, leading to operational challenges and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a containment vessel with a V-shaped processing tank, shaftless auger, and multiple hydrocyclone assemblies, along with shakers and baffles, that separates solids through a series of processing zones and fluid flows to achieve efficient solid removal, utilizing overflow weirs and agitators to maintain clean fluid quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple stages of separation equipment are used, then separation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the separation process into distinct functional zones within a single integrated vessel: a processing tank for primary separation, an overflow tank for clean fluid storage, and multiple processing chambers for sequential separation stages. Each zone is defined by specific baffles and flow paths, allowing efficient multi-stage separation without requiring multiple separate equipment units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple separation functions into a single integrated vessel system. The processing tank, overflow tank, and multiple processing chambers are merged into one unified structure that performs primary separation, clean fluid storage, and sequential separation stages simultaneously, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high separation efficiency.
2Productivity
If complex multi-stage separation systems are implemented, then solid removal efficiency is improved, but operational challenges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-regulating flow paths where the overflow weir automatically controls fluid levels and directs flow to appropriate processing chambers. The baffles and chamber configurations create natural flow patterns that require minimal external control, allowing the multi-stage separation process to operate autonomously with reduced operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
By dividing the separation process into distinct functional zones with dedicated flow paths, each processing chamber operates semi-independently, allowing for simpler operational control of individual stages while maintaining overall system efficiency. The segmented design enables targeted optimization of each separation stage without requiring complex coordination of the entire system.
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional separation equipment is used, then separation function is provided, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separation functions into a single manufactured unit, reducing the total number of components that need to be produced, assembled, and maintained. The integrated vessel design with internal baffles and flow paths provides the same separation functionality as multiple separate equipment pieces but at lower manufacturing cost and with simplified production processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The single vessel system performs multiple functions simultaneously: primary separation, clean fluid storage, sequential separation stages, and waste fluid handling. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated equipment for each function, reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining comprehensive separation capabilities.
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 solids from fluid streams, reducing the need for drying shakers and achieving operational savings by producing dryer cuttings and lowering mud and disposal costs, while maintaining efficient solid separation across multiple stages.
Implementation Method 1
The overflow weir may extend from the bottom of the vessel to the top of the vessel and contain an opening so that a clean fluid substantially free of solids contained within the overflow tank may flow through the opening and into the processing tank
Implementation Method 2
The auger may be configured to rotate in a direction that transports solids collected at the bottom of the processing tank towards the front sidewall of the vessel
Implementation Method 3
The system may include a first hydrocyclone assembly operatively positioned above the first linear shaker. The first hydrocyclone assembly may be configured to receive a second fluid containing solids pumped from the degassed mud zone and to process the second fluid containing solids to partially separate solids from the fluid
Implementation Method 4
The system may include a scalping shaker operatively positioned above the top of the vessel over the sand trap zone of the processing tank. The scalping shaker may be configured to receive a first fluid containing solids and to process the first fluid containing solids to partially separate solids from the fluid
Implementation Method 5
The processing tank may include a desilted mud zone defined by the overflow weir and a first underflow baffle operatively positioned transverse to the left and right sides of the vessel
Data Source
AI summary
A system for separating solids from a fluid includes a containment vessel having a V-shaped tank in fluid communication with an agitated overflow tank. Baffles within the V-shaped tank provide a series of zones where the fluid is deposited for processing. A shaftless auger at the bottom of the V-shaped tank transfers solids to an area where they are pumped to a first hydrocyclone assembly associated with a first shaker. Overflow from the hydrocyclone assembly and underflow from the first shaker is further processed by a second hydrocyclone assembly associated with a second shaker. Overflow from the second hydrocyclone assembly and underflow from the second shaker are deposited into overflow tank which contains the cleaned fluid.