Manual adjustable screw conveyor VS VFD control screw conveyor

A screw conveyor, also known as an auger, is a widely used equipment for transferring drilling cuttings from shale shakers, mud cleaners (desanders and desilters), decanter centrifuges, and carrying these cuttings for feeding to drilling waste management equipment, like to high G drying shale shaker, vertical cuttings dryer, filter press, etc…. It is also widely used to discharge solids from High G dryering shaker, the decanter centrifuge, etc… It is an essential part of solids control systems, efficiently moving waste material to designated disposal areas.

When it comes to operating a screw conveyor, users often have questions regarding the functionality of the manual variable speed feature. Weather they should choose the manual variable speed reducer screw conveyor, or the screw conveyor equipped with a VFD control panel? Whether the manual variable speed unit can be removed and the motor connected directly to the gearbox to convert it into a fixed-speed screw conveyor if the variable speed unit malfunctions.

Technically speaking, if the manual gearbox fails, it is not advisable to simply connect the motor directly to the gearbox. The gearbox is designed to operate with a manual variable speed adjustment, and removing this feature would compromise the system’s functionality. In this case, it would be necessary to replace the broken gearbox with a new one to maintain proper operation.

If you need to adjust the speed frequently, the better solution is to consider using a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) control panel. A VFD provides a more flexible and efficient way to control the speed of the motor. It allows for on-demand speed adjustments without the need for manual changes, making it particularly useful in situations where the speed needs to be altered regularly. For example, if your operations require speed adjustments on a daily basis or at different drilling rigs, a VFD system would be much more convenient and effective.

However, if your operations involve fewer require speed adjustments on a daily basis or at different drilling rigs, a VFD system would be much more convenient and effective.

However, if your operations involve fewer speed changes and the equipment is mainly used in a fixed-speed setup for extended periods, a manual variable speed gearbox might still be suitable. The lifetime of both manual adjustment and standard gearboxes is quite long, especially if the speed adjustment does not need to be changed frequently. For rigs that move between locations and require minimal speed changes, the manual gearbox remains a reliable and durable option.

In summary, if you frequently need to adjust the speed of your screw conveyor, a VFD control system is the best choice. However, if the speed adjustment is minimal and you’re comfortable with a fixed speed, replacing the manual gearbox with a new unit will restore the system to its original functionality.

1000HP Drilling Rig Mud Tank System running in Yunan

GN Solids Control recently completed the installation of a 1000HP drilling mud system at a rig site in Yunnan Province, China. The system is designed to handle the demands of high-performance drilling operations, featuring a comprehensive range of equipment to ensure efficient mud treatment and solids control.

The system consists of four mud tanks, providing ample capacity for the handling and treatment of drilling fluids. The key components of the system include:

Three GNZS594K drilling mud shale shakers: These are four-panel linear motion shale shakers, designed to efficiently separate large solids from the drilling mud. GN Solids Control also offers dual-motion and double-deck shale shaker models as optional upgrades, allowing for more versatile operations depending on the specific needs of the rig.

One GNZCQ270 vacuum degasser: This unit is a self-suction shale shaker, eliminating the need for an additional 75kW feeding pump. It plays a crucial role in removing gases from the drilling fluid, helping to maintain the stability and quality of the mud.

One GNZJ752K-2S desander mud cleaner: Equipped with a two-panel mini-size shale shaker and two 10-inch desander cones, this mud cleaner efficiently separates larger solids from the mud, ensuring the drilling fluid remains at optimal viscosity and density.

One GNZJ752K-12N desilter mud cleaner: Similar in design to the desander unit, this mud cleaner features a two-panel mini-size shale shaker and twelve 4-inch desilter cones, which further refine the mud by removing finer solids, ensuring high-quality drilling fluid.

One GNLW452D middle-speed big bowl decanter centrifuge: This centrifuge is designed for effective fine solids separation, ensuring the efficient treatment of drilling fluids and the removal of ultra-fine particles that cannot be captured by the previous stages.

In addition to these core components, GN Solids Control also provided a range of accessories, including mud agitators, centrifugal pumps, mixing hoppers, and an electrical control system to ensure the system operates smoothly and efficiently.

This comprehensive drilling mud system, tailored to the needs of the Yunnan rig site, ensures efficient solids control and mud management, ultimately enhancing the performance and sustainability of the drilling operations.

Drilling Mud Decanter Centrifuge and Centrifugal Pumps for Offshore Drilling Company

GN Solids Control is a leading provider of advanced drilling mud treatment equipment, designed for both onshore and offshore applications. Recently, the company successfully completed and shipped a range of offshore-standard decanter centrifuges and centrifugal pumps, tailored to meet the demanding requirements of offshore operations. These units have been built to comply with stringent offshore industry standards, including material specifications, explosion-proof standards, painting requirements, and lifting standards, ensuring that the equipment performs reliably and safely in harsh offshore environments.

The offshore standard decanter centrifuges and centrifugal pumps are integral to effective drilling mud treatment, offering high-efficiency separation and waste management capabilities. The equipment is engineered to handle the unique challenges posed by offshore drilling operations, including extreme conditions and the need for robust, reliable equipment that can function continuously without failure. These units are designed to provide optimal performance, reducing downtime and ensuring smooth operations even in the most challenging offshore environments.

In addition to the decanter centrifuges and centrifugal pumps, GN Solids Control offers a complete range of oil and gas drilling solids control and drilling waste management equipment. This comprehensive lineup includes equipment designed to manage drilling fluids, separate solids from liquids, and treat waste generated during drilling operations. The company provides everything from shale shakers and desanders to mud cleaners and agitators, all engineered to meet the specific needs of both onshore and offshore rigs.

Furthermore, GN Solids Control also manufactures high-quality replacement screens for both onshore and offshore rigs. These screens are designed to deliver excellent performance and durability, ensuring that the solids control process runs smoothly and efficiently. Whether for offshore or onshore operations, GN Solids Control provides a full suite of equipment and solutions that ensure optimal drilling performance, reduce environmental impact, and enhance the overall efficiency of drilling operations.

With its commitment to providing high-quality, reliable, and safe equipment, GN Solids Control continues to be a trusted partner in the oil and gas industry, offering cutting-edge solutions for drilling mud treatment and waste management.

Contaminated Soil and Oil-Based Mud Cutting Treatment Systems

GN Solids Control is a leading name in the design and manufacturing of oil – based mud (OBM) cutting treatment systems. GN can send our engineers for the first – time installation and commissioning to ensure a smooth start – up for our clients.​

Key Separation Equipment​
Vertical Cuttings Dryer​
The vertical cuttings dryer is the star of our OBM cuttings treatment lineup. It is the primary separation equipment for OBM cuttings treatment and is highly efficient. With this advanced technology, it can reduce the Oil on Cuttings (OOC) to an impressively low range of 3 – 5%. This significant reduction not only helps in waste management but also has cost – saving implications for the oil and gas industry.​
High G Drying Shaker​
While the high G drying shaker is mainly designed for water – base mud cuttings, some clients have also used it for OBM cuttings. However, it has its limitations. It can only reduce the OOC to around 10%. This makes it clear that for optimal OBM cuttings treatment, the vertical cuttings dryer is the better choice.​


High – Speed Centrifuge​
High – speed centrifuge plays a crucial role in the treatment process. It is used after the vertical cuttings dryer. Its function is to reduce the mud weight and make the mud qualified for reuse. By recycling the mud, we not only save resources but also contribute to a more sustainable drilling operation.​
Treatment Locations​
It understand that every client has different operational setups. Some may choose to treat the cuttings at the rig site, while others prefer to collect the cuttings and treat them in their yards. To better serve clients, GN Solids Control will send a question list on waste management in investigate the project information and demands. This will enable GN to offer clients more tailored and proper solutions.​

GN Solids Control Solutions​
Solution 1: Vertical Cuttings Dryer and High – Speed Centrifuge Package​
This package is an excellent choice for treating fresh OBM cuttings at the rig site. It is relatively easy to implement and highly effective. With this solution, our system can reduce the OOC to the 3 – 5% range, ensuring efficient waste reduction right at the source.​


Solution 2: Oily Sludge Separation System for Old Oily Sludge in Waste Pits​
For the old oily sludge in waste pits, we offer the oily sludge separation system. We have a successful project reference in Qatar that showcases the effectiveness of this solution.
In this project, the results were remarkable:​
Oil on Solids: 1 – 3%​
Water in Oil: 3 – 5% (BS&W)​
Oil in Water: 1%​

GN Solids Control OBM cuttings system is a waste – reducing system that can be used before TDU (Thermal Desorption Unit) to improve TDU efficiency.

3000HP Drilling Rig Solids Control System for Asia Drilling Company

A 3000HP drilling rig requires high standards for drilling mud solids control equipment due to its larger scale and more demanding operational needs. GN Solids Control designs the mud system to accommodate larger volumes of drilling fluids and ensure efficient solids control throughout the drilling process.

The mud system includes an 80bbl trip tank, complete with a centrifugal trip pump. The trip tank features a level meter with a 0.5bbl level indicator, ensuring precise monitoring of the mud volume. There are three active mud tanks in the system: a shale shaker tank, an intermediate tank, and a suction tank, each with a 500bbl capacity. These tanks are essential for maintaining the right balance of drilling fluids during operations.

In addition, the system includes four reserve tanks for mud storage, with a total capacity of 2000bbl. The setup also includes three water tanks and a 70bbl pill tank to support various operations and drilling fluid maintenance.

A comprehensive mixing system is integrated into the mud system for deep drilling rigs. The mixing system consists of two mixing hoppers, three centrifugal mixing pumps, and one shearing pump for use and backup. This setup ensures that drilling fluid is mixed effectively to maintain consistent viscosity and performance.

To handle the high flow rates and large volumes of drilling fluid, the system uses three sets of GNZS596K double-deck shale shakers. These shakers are specifically designed for large-capacity applications and utilize the same size replacement screens for both the upper and bottom decks, ensuring ease of maintenance and consistent performance.

After the shale shakers, the system includes a 1500GPM mud gas separator, a vacuum degasser, and a mud cleaner to further treat the mud and remove gases, solids, and contaminants. 100hp centrifugal pumps are used to feed the desander and desilter units, ensuring proper flow rates and efficient separation of fine solids.

The system is also equipped with necessary mud agitators and mud guns to keep the mud in suspension and maintain optimal fluid properties during the drilling process.

This comprehensive mud system ensures that the 3000HP drilling rig operates efficiently, with advanced equipment for solids control, fluid management, and waste disposal.

Drilling Mud Rycycling Unit and Hydraulic Centrifuge for Overseas Client

The 500GPM mud recycling system has emerged as a workhorse solution for trenchless drilling operations in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and Coal Bed Methane (CBM) projects. GN Solids Control, a leading provider of solids control equipment, recently delivered a comprehensive 500GPM system tailored for an international client, showcasing its expertise in engineered solutions for complex drilling environments. This integrated system features a three-stage separation process housed within a robust action tank, combining primary solids removal via shale shaker with advanced fluid purification through a high-capacity mud cleaner.

At the heart of the system lies a dual centrifugal pump configuration strategically positioned on the tank’s inclined surface. These pumps ensure efficient feed distribution to both desilter and desander cones within the mud cleaner, enabling precise separation of particles down to 15μm. The modular design incorporates a lifting frame skid that supports the shale shaker and mud cleaner assemblies, facilitating rapid deployment and relocation between job sites—a critical advantage in dynamic trenchless drilling operations. Constructed from corrosion-resistant materials and equipped with adjustable baffles, the tank optimizes fluid dynamics while withstanding harsh drilling conditions.

Complementing this system, GN Solids Control engineered a full hydraulic centrifuge package specifically for coal mining applications. The GNLW223D-FHD mini-centrifuge represents cutting-edge technology in compact solids separation, capable of processing 15-25m³/h with exceptional separation efficiency. This unit integrates a dedicated holding tank and advanced control panel featuring PLC-based automation for real-time monitoring and parameter adjustment. Designed for continuous operation in demanding coalbed methane environments, the system’s compact footprint makes it ideal for space-constrained drilling locations while maintaining industrial-grade durability.

Both systems exemplify GN’s commitment to innovation and customization. The 500GPM solution incorporates API-compliant components and dual redundant safety features, ensuring compliance with international drilling standards. Meanwhile, the coal-specific decanter centrifuge package demonstrates the company’s ability to adapt technologies across different energy sectors. From shale gas exploration to underground coal mining, these systems enhance operational efficiency by reducing drilling fluid waste, controlling solids contamination, and minimizing environmental impact. With over two decades of experience serving global energy markets, GN Solids Control continues to set benchmarks in solids control engineering through its integrated solutions and client-centric approach, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner for complex drilling challenges worldwide.

Vertical Cutings Dryer and Centrifuge Unit for Africa Waste Management Company

Many clients have been loyal to GN Solids Control for years, and one such client in Africa has recently received a full-package drilling cuttings treatment system. This client has been working with GN for over 10 years, and all their drilling rigs are equipped with GN brand drilling waste management systems. The latest package includes two high-speed centrifuges, a vertical cuttings dryer, centrifuge feeding pumps, a vertical cuttings dryer flush pump, screw conveyors for cuttings transfer, centrifugal pumps, and vertical slurry pumps for mud and liquid transfer.

The high-speed decanter centrifuges are equipped with Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) control panels, which feature explosion-proof control air conditioners for self-cooling. The air conditioning units are fitted with filters that clean and dry the air before it is fed into the VFD panel, ensuring that the VFD and its components are protected from high moisture and hazardous environments. This design enhances the reliability and longevity of the equipment, even in challenging conditions.

One of the centrifuges is used in the drilling mud solids control system to reduce the mud weight, while the other is used with high speed and high G-force to recover and reduce the mud weight from the vertical cuttings dryer. Both centrifuges are mounted on telescopic skids, and the vertical cuttings dryer is mounted on a heavy skid with holding tanks, making the system easy to transport and install.

Over the course of more than 10 years of collaboration, this client has purchased over 20 full-package drilling waste management systems from GN Solids Control. The company has consistently provided high-quality solids control and drilling waste management equipment, which has played a crucial role in improving the efficiency and sustainability of the client’s drilling operations.

GN Solids Control is dedicated to offering complete solutions for solids control and drilling waste management. Clients can reach out to GN’s sales engineers for expert advice and customized solutions tailored to their specific needs. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, GN continues to be a trusted partner in the oil and gas industry.

GN Solid Control to Showcase Advanced Solid Control Equipment at CIPPE 2025

GN Solid Control, a leading provider of solid control equipment for the oil and gas industry, will showcase its latest design solids control equipment and drilling waste management products at the 25th China International Petroleum & Petrochemical Technology and Equipment Exhibition (CIPPE) from March 26 to 28, 2025.

CIPPE is the largest oil and gas exhibition in China, attracting thousands of exhibitors and visitors from around the world each year. GN Solid Control will present its latest advancements in solid control equipment, including the 4th generation fully hydraulic centrifuge, the new K-version marine drilling fluid shale shaker, and the G-version three-phase decanter centrifuge.

Duration: March 26 to 28, 2025
GN Solids Control booth No.: E2168
Location: China International Exhibition Center (New Venue) in Beijing, with GN Solid Control located at booth number E2168.
Website: https://en.cippe.com.cn/

Pre-registration

The 4th generation fully hydraulic centrifuge (FHD centrifuge) is a highlight of GN Solid Control’s display, offering state-of-the-art centrifugal separation technology. Its advanced design and high separation efficiency make it ideal for removing fine solids and improving the quality of drilling fluids.

GN Solid Control will also introduce its new K-version marine drilling fluid shale shaker, specifically engineered for marine drilling applications. This shale shaker delivers exceptional performance and reliability, even in harsh offshore environments.

Another key product on display will be the G-version three-phase decanter centrifuge, which efficiently separates drilling fluids into three phases: solids, liquids, and gases. This centrifuge is crucial for managing drilling waste and optimizing fluid recovery.

In addition to these innovations, GN Solid Control will feature rock drill cuttings dryers, large drum high-speed centrifuges, mud cleaners, screw conveyors, and solid vacuum pumps. These products are designed to enhance drilling efficiency and minimize environmental impact in the oil and gas sector.

GN Solid Control’s drilling fluid shale shaker screens, manufactured with high-quality materials, will also be showcased. Known for their durability and high separation efficiency, these screens are essential in maintaining optimal fluid management during drilling operations.

CIPPE 2025 offers GN Solid Control an excellent opportunity to present its cutting-edge technologies to a global audience. Visitors are encouraged to visit booth E2168 to learn more about the company’s products and explore potential collaboration opportunities.

GNZS752K Mini Shale Shaker for Brazil Company

GN Solids Control has recently exported a number of mini shale shakers, the model is GNZS752K, to a reputable drilling company in Brazil. This compact and efficient shale shaker is specifically designed for work over rig mud systems, combining a small footprint with robust performance to meet the challenges of drilling operations in confined spaces.

The GNZS752K mini shale shaker features a 2-panel design that maximizes screening area while minimizing overall size. This makes it an ideal choice for drilling rigs where space is at a premium. The shale shaker is engineered with precision to ensure efficient operation and reliability, even in the most demanding environments.

In addition to the GNZS752K mini size shale shaker, GN Solids Control offers a wide range of larger shale shaker models to cater to the diverse needs of the drilling industry. These include 4-panel and 5-panel models, providing increased screening area for higher capacity operations. The larger shale shakers are available in both single deck and double deck configurations, allowing for flexibility in processing different types and volumes of drilling mud.

Beyond shale shakers, GN Solids Control’s product range extends to include a comprehensive suite of solids control equipment. This includes mud cleaners, decanter centrifuges, vacuum degassers, and hydrocyclones, all designed to work seamlessly together to provide a complete solids control solution. The company’s mud cleaners, for example, are designed to remove fine solids and excess liquids from drilling mud, improving its quality and performance.

GN Solids Control’s decanter centrifuges are engineered to separate drilling fluids from cuttings and other solids, ensuring that the drilling mud remains clean and effective. The vacuum degassers, on the other hand, are used to remove entrained gases from drilling mud, which can improve its rheological properties and stability.

Overall, GN Solids Control’s product range offers a comprehensive solution for solids control in drilling operations. From mini shale shakers to advanced mud cleaners and centrifuges, the company’s equipment is designed to improve the efficiency and performance of drilling mud systems, ultimately leading to better drilling outcomes. With a focus on innovation and quality, GN Solids Control continues to set the standard in the solids control industry, and its export of mini shale shakers to Brazil is just one example of its global reach and commitment to excellence.

Successful Installation and Commissioning of Multiple Drilling Rig Mud Tank Systems

Before the Chinese Lunar New Year holiday, the GN Solids Control team worked diligently to shorten the production time for multiple sets of drilling rig mud tank systems. Understanding the importance of timely delivery, the team put in significant effort to ensure that all systems were completed ahead of the regular schedule. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, all systems were finished on time and shipped to the rig companies before the New Year holiday, ensuring no delays for their customers.

The mud systems provided by GN Solids Control are designed for a wide range of drilling rigs, including high-power rigs like the 9000hp and 7000hp models, making them suitable for deep drilling operations. These systems are meticulously engineered to meet the needs of various types of drilling projects, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and performance in challenging drilling conditions.

GN Solids Control offers a full-package solution for oil rig mud systems, which includes key components such as pre-separation shale shakers, desanders, desilters, mud cleaners, decanter centrifuges, and jet mud mixing tanks. Additionally, the company provides full system design services, ensuring that each solution is tailored to meet the specific needs of the client’s drilling operations. This comprehensive approach helps customers streamline their operations and improve overall mud management efficiency.

One of the standout features of GN Solids Control is its ability to offer customized solutions. The company can produce mud systems with personalized color schemes and logos based on the client’s branding requirements, providing a professional and unique appearance for each system. This flexibility enhances the customer experience and ensures that each system aligns with the client’s preferences and operational standards.

By providing high-quality products, timely delivery, and customized solutions, GN Solids Control continues to strengthen its reputation as a reliable provider of drilling rig mud systems. Their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction remains at the core of every project they undertake.