How It Works
Solid control and slurry management involve sequential separation processes to remove cuttings, fines and contaminants from drilling fluids or slurry. Clean fluid is returned to the drilling system or treated water stream, while solids are stabilised and disposed of or reused.
1-Fluid Intake & Screening
Slurry and drilling fluid are directed into the solid control system where large particles and debris are captured by screens and shakers.
2-Primary Separation
Mechanical separation using shale shakers, desanders and desilters removes coarse and medium solids from the fluid. Shakers use vibrating screens to reject cuttings and reduce fluid contamination.
3-Fine Solids Removal
Centrifuges or cyclones further reduce fine particles and maintain fluid quality. These processes improve drilling performance and reduce waste volume.
4-Slurry Conditioning & Recycling
Remaining slurry is conditioned with polymers or additives and can be recycled back into the process or sent for further treatment and disposal.
5-Final Handling & Disposal
Separated solids and conditioned slurry are managed for appropriate disposal or beneficial reuse according to environmental regulations.
Applications
Oil & Gas Drilling
Mining Exploration
Civil Construction
Geotechnical Drilling
Hydro-Excavation
Water Well Drilling
Industrial Slurry
Remote Site Operations
Core System Components
AquipTec’s solid control and slurry systems combine best-in-class equipment and engineered processes to achieve effective separation, fluid recovery and waste reduction.
Shale Shakers & Screening Units
Shale shakers are first-stage solids removal devices that separate large cuttings and debris from drilling fluids.
• Heavy-duty vibrating screens
• Adjustable screen decks and shaker motors
• Cuttings collection and discharge trays
Shale shakers protect downstream equipment and improve fluid clarity.
Desanders & Desilters
Desanders and desilters use centrifugal force to remove medium and fine solids:
• Hydrocyclone assemblies
• Feed distribution manifolds
• Underflow collection systems
These units improve fluid quality and reduce drilling complications.
Centrifuges & Fine Particle Management
Centrifuge units are high-speed separators designed to treat fine solids:
• Decanter and disc centrifuges
• VFD controls for optimum performance
• Solids discharge conveyors
Centrifuges significantly reduce fine particle concentrations and aid fluid recycling.
Slurry Conditioning & Polymer Systems
Polymer dosing and slurry conditioning enhance solid–liquid separation:
• Chemical dosing skids
• Mixing and holding tanks
• Metered control systems
Proper conditioning stabilises slurry for recycling or disposal.
Cuttings & Slurry Handling
Separated solids and slurry must be collected, stored and transported:
• Cuttings bins and conveyors
• Slurry storage tanks
• Dewatering and compaction equipment
These systems ensure safe handling and reduced waste volume
Key Benefits
Improved Drilling Efficiency
Quick and thorough removal of solids improves drilling fluid quality for consistent performance.
Enhanced Fluid Recovery
– Recovered drilling fluid can be reused, saving cost on makeup fluid.
Performance in Harsh Conditions
Designed for rugged field environments and fluctuating conditions.
Modular & Scalable Systems
Solutions can grow with project needs and integrate into existing infrastructures.
Reduced Disposal & Waste Costs
Separation dramatically lowers solids volume requiring disposal.
Lower Operational Downtime
Efficient solids control reduces equipment downtime and maintenance needs.
Reduced Equipment Wear
Cleaner fluids minimise abrasion and protect pumps and components for longer service life.
Environmental Compliance
Reduces contamination risk and aligns with Australian waste management standards.
Why Choose AquipTec
AquipTec delivers solid control and slurry management solutions engineered for performance, reliability and regulatory compliance:
- Technology-neutral engineering to select the best equipment for each site.
- End-to-end system delivery from design to commissioning and support.
- Local compliance knowledge and Australian regulatory expertise.
- Performance-optimised solutions for lifecycle value and operational success.
This solution is engineered and delivered exclusively by Aquiptec.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is solid control?
Solid control refers to the separation of cuttings and solids from drilling fluid to optimise fluid performance and reduce waste.
How does a shale shaker work?
Shale shakers use vibrating screens to remove large drill cuttings from fluid before further separation stages.
Can recycled drilling fluid be reused?
Yes, separated and conditioned fluid can be reused in drilling operations, reducing the need for fresh fluid additions.
Are these solutions suitable for remote sites?
Yes, modular, portable and rugged designs make these systems suitable for remote and on-site operations.
Can the system be automated?
Integrated PLC/SCADA systems allow automated control and remote monitoring for stable and compliant operation.