Description
Drilling Shale Shaker for Oil & Gas Rigs | High-Capacity Linear Motion Solids Control
SGPE manufactures Drilling Shale Shaker equipment for primary solids control in oil and gas drilling fluid systems. The shaker separates drilled cuttings and unwanted formation solids from returning mud before the fluid moves to downstream treatment equipment.
Our range covers Linear Motion Shale Shakers, High G Shale Shakers and Dual Motion Shale Shakers, with compact, three-panel, four-panel and five-panel configurations for different circulation rates, cuttings loads and rig layouts.
For higher-flow drilling programs, SGPE also supplies tandem and triple shaker systems with common skids and mud distribution arrangements.
Typical single-unit reference capacities range from approximately 50 to 180 m³/h, or 220 to 790 GPM. Depending on the selected configuration, effective screen area ranges from approximately 1.35 to 3.4 m² per unit.
These oilfield shale shakers process Water-Based Mud (WBM), Oil-Based Mud (OBM) and Synthetic-Based Mud (SBM). Applications include land drilling rigs, directional and horizontal wells, high-ROP drilling, deep and HPHT wells, offshore platforms, jack-up rigs, semi-submersibles and drillships.
SGPE also supplies matching Shale Shaker Screens with composite or steel frames. A project screen package can include several API Screen Numbers so the drilling crew can adjust separation performance as the well moves through different hole sections.
For a new drilling rig, brownfield upgrade, replacement shale shaker or complete solids-control package, SGPE reviews the actual operating duty before finalizing the equipment. Maximum mud flow, drilling fluid properties, hole size, expected ROP, solids loading, screen requirement, available footprint, electrical specification and hazardous-area requirements all influence the final selection.
Email: info@sgpe.com
Tel/WhatsApp: +86 186-1599-5239
Drilling Shale Shaker Product Overview
A Drilling Shale Shaker is normally the first mechanical solids-removal machine in a drilling fluid treatment system.
During drilling, mud travels down the drillstring, passes through the drill bit and returns to the surface through the annulus. The returning fluid carries formation cuttings and other drilled solids.
The rig flowline directs this mud into the shaker feeder. The feeder distributes the flow across the vibrating screen deck. Reusable drilling fluid and particles below the selected separation range pass through the screen, while larger cuttings stay on the screen surface and move toward the discharge end.
The recovered mud enters the mud tank and continues through later treatment stages.
Effective primary screening reduces the solids load on the desander, desilter, mud cleaner and decanter centrifuge. It also helps control low-gravity solids, reduce unnecessary mud dilution and recover more usable drilling fluid.
These benefits become particularly important during high-ROP drilling, large surface-hole sections, long horizontal intervals, high circulation rates, deep and HPHT drilling and offshore programs that use high-value OBM or SBM.
A drilling mud shale shaker is therefore part of the complete Drilling Fluid Solids Control System, not a generic industrial vibrating screen.
Drilling Shale Shaker Technical Specifications
Drilling Shale Shaker Performance & Screening Specifications
| Technical Parameter | SGPE Configuration |
|---|---|
| Product | Drilling Shale Shaker |
| Common Industry Terms | Oilfield Shale Shaker / Drilling Mud Shale Shaker / Drilling Fluid Shale Shaker / Mud Shaker / Shale Shaker Machine |
| Equipment Category | Oilfield Solids Control Equipment |
| Main Function | Primary drilled-solids removal and drilling fluid recovery |
| Separation Stage | Primary Solids Control |
| Motion Type | Linear Motion / High-G Linear Motion / Dual Motion |
| Reference Capacity | Approx. 50–180 m³/h per unit |
| Flow Range | Approx. 220–790 GPM per unit |
| Screen Quantity | 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 Panels |
| Effective Screen Area | Approx. 1.35–3.4 m² |
| Typical 2-Panel Screen Area | Approx. 1.35 m² |
| Typical 4-Panel Screen Area | Approx. 2.73 m² |
| Typical 5-Panel Screen Area | Approx. 3.4 m² |
| Vibration Motors | 2 Motors |
| Typical Motor Power | Approx. 2 × 1.0 kW to 2 × 2.2 kW |
| Selected 4-Panel Configuration | 2 × 1.72 kW available |
| Maximum G Force | Up to approx. 7.5–8.0 G |
| Typical Vibration Amplitude | Approx. 4.0–6.0 mm |
| Deck Angle | Fixed / Adjustable |
| Typical Adjustable Range | Approx. -1° to +5° |
| Screen Frame | Composite / Steel |
| Screen Surface | Flat / 3D Corrugated |
| Screen Installation | Wedge Lock / Pretensioned / Hook-Type |
| Screen Evaluation Reference | API RP 13C / ISO 13501 |
| Screen Performance Data | API Screen Number / D100 / Conductance / Non-Blanked Area |
| Drilling Fluid | WBM / OBM / SBM |
Capacity Note: Published capacity is a reference for equipment selection rather than a fixed field guarantee. Actual throughput varies with mud viscosity, mud weight, API Screen Number, solids loading, ROP, hole diameter, formation characteristics, screen condition, deck angle and operating temperature.
Drilling Shale Shaker Installation & Project Configuration
| Technical Parameter | SGPE Configuration |
|---|---|
| Feeder Options | Weir / Back Feeder / Top Feeder / Mud Distribution Box |
| Mud Feed | Rig Flowline / Distribution Manifold |
| Electrical Supply | 380–480 V, 50/60 Hz, 3 Phase |
| Other Electrical Supply | Configured to Project Specification |
| Hazardous-Area Options | IECEx / ATEX Electrical Package |
| Installation | Mud Tank-Mounted / Skid-Mounted |
| Arrangement | Single / Tandem / Triple |
| Rig Environment | Onshore / Offshore |
| Rig Type | Land Rig / Platform Rig / Jack-Up / Semi-Submersible / Drillship |
| Structural Design | Heavy-Duty Fabricated Oilfield Construction |
| Coating | Onshore / Offshore Corrosion-Protection System |
| Feeder Height | Configured to Flowline and Mud Tank |
| Solids Discharge Direction | Configured to Rig Layout |
| Screen Access | Front / Side according to configuration |
| Replaceable Parts | Screens / Wedges / Springs / Motors / Seals |
| System Integration | Complete Solids Control System Available |
| Customization | Capacity / Deck / Feeder / Skid / Voltage / Controls / Dimensions |
SGPE Shale Shaker Configuration Range
| Configuration | Reference Capacity | Screen Quantity | Approx. Screen Area | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compact Shale Shaker | 50–70 m³/h | 2 | Approx. 1.35 m² | Compact land rigs and lower-flow systems |
| 3-Panel Shale Shaker | Project-Specific | 3 | Configuration-Specific | Conventional land rigs and replacement projects |
| 4-Panel Shale Shaker | Up to approx. 140 m³/h | 4 | Approx. 2.73 m² | General drilling solids control |
| 5-Panel High Capacity Shale Shaker | Up to approx. 175–180 m³/h | 5 | Approx. 3.4 m² | High-flow and high-solids drilling |
| Tandem Shale Shaker | Up to approx. 280 m³/h class | 2 Complete Units | Approx. 5.46 m² class | High circulation and redundancy |
| Triple Shale Shaker | Up to approx. 420 m³/h class | 3 Complete Units | Approx. 8.19 m² class | Large rigs and demanding drilling programs |
For many conventional wells, a 4 Panel Linear Motion Shale Shaker with approximately 140 m³/h / 616 GPM reference capacity and 2.73 m² of screen area provides a practical balance between processing capacity, equipment footprint and available screening surface.
A five-panel unit adds screen area when the drilling program requires higher flow rates, finer API screens or greater solids-handling capability.
When one machine cannot handle the combined hydraulic and cuttings load, tandem or triple arrangements increase the available screen area and also provide operating redundancy.
How Does a Drilling Shale Shaker Work?
The separation process starts when drilling mud returns to the surface.
The rig flowline directs the mud into the feeder, which distributes the fluid across the screen width. Two synchronized vibration motors then generate the required motion.
On a Linear Motion Shale Shaker, the motors rotate in opposite directions and produce controlled straight-line vibration. This movement transports drilled cuttings toward the discharge end while reusable mud passes through the screens and enters the mud tank.
The recovered fluid then moves through downstream solids-control equipment.
A typical treatment sequence is:
Well Return → Flowline → Shale Shaker → Vacuum Degasser → Desander → Desilter or Mud Cleaner → Decanter Centrifuge → Active Mud System
Good primary screening removes solids before they reach later treatment stages and reduces the load on the complete drilling fluid system.
Linear Motion, High G and Dual Motion Shale Shakers
Linear Motion Shale Shaker
A Linear Motion Shale Shaker uses two counter-rotating vibration motors to generate straight-line movement across the screen deck.
This motion provides reliable cuttings transport while maintaining practical drilling fluid throughput. It suits high mud circulation, surface and intermediate hole sections, large-diameter holes, high ROP and other drilling conditions with substantial cuttings loads.
Linear motion is widely used on both land and offshore rigs because it combines strong solids conveyance with a broad operating range.
High G Shale Shaker
A High G Shale Shaker uses greater vibratory acceleration to improve cuttings movement under demanding conditions.
Selected SGPE configurations provide approximately 7.5–8.0 G, depending on the design.
Higher G force can improve solids conveyance and reduce fluid carryover with discharged cuttings. However, G force alone does not determine performance. Mud rheology, effective screen area, API Screen Number, deck angle and solids loading also influence the result.
SGPE therefore selects vibration characteristics together with the screen deck and expected drilling duty.
Dual Motion Shale Shaker
A Dual Motion Shale Shaker provides more than one vibration characteristic.
Linear movement supports rapid solids transport and high mud capacity. An alternative elliptical-type motion can increase residence time and produce smoother cuttings movement when operating conditions change.
This flexibility is useful when fluid properties, formation characteristics or cuttings loads vary significantly during the drilling program.
Shale Shaker Screens and API RP 13C
The screen is the actual separation surface inside a Drilling Mud Shale Shaker, so its specification directly affects solids removal, mud throughput, fluid recovery and screen life.
Traditional terms such as “100 mesh” or “200 mesh” do not fully describe the performance of modern multilayer screens.
API RP 13C and ISO 13501 provide a more consistent framework for screen evaluation. Important values include API Screen Number, D100 separation, conductance and non-blanked area.
The API Screen Number describes the evaluated separation characteristics of a shaker screen. It does not certify the complete shale shaker machine.
SGPE supplies composite-frame and steel-frame screens with flat or 3D corrugated surfaces for different shaker decks and drilling programs.
API Shaker Screen Number and D100 Reference
| API Screen Number | D100 Separation Range |
|---|---|
| API 20 | >780 to 925 μm |
| API 25 | >655 to 780 μm |
| API 30 | >550 to 655 μm |
| API 35 | >462.5 to 550 μm |
| API 40 | >390 to 462.5 μm |
| API 45 | >327.5 to 390 μm |
| API 50 | >275 to 327.5 μm |
| API 60 | >231 to 275 μm |
| API 70 | >196 to 231 μm |
| API 80 | >165 to 196 μm |
| API 100 | >137.5 to 165 μm |
| API 120 | >116.5 to 137.5 μm |
| API 140 | >98 to 116.5 μm |
| API 170 | >82.5 to 98 μm |
| API 200 | >69 to 82.5 μm |
| API 230 | >58 to 69 μm |
| API 270 | >49 to 58 μm |
| API 325 | >41.5 to 49 μm |
| API 400 | >35 to 41.5 μm |
One well may use several API Screen Numbers.
Surface-hole sections normally require greater hydraulic capacity because the rig circulates more mud and generates larger cuttings volumes. As the well progresses, finer screens may become useful when tighter solids control is required.
The finest available screen is not automatically the best choice. An excessively fine screen can restrict mud throughput, increase blinding and cause drilling fluid to carry over the discharge end.
The correct screen balances solids removal, hydraulic capacity, drilling fluid recovery and screen life.
Shale Shaker Screen Selection by Drilling Condition
| Drilling Condition | Typical Screen Strategy | Main Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Large Surface Hole | Coarser API range | Maximize mud and cuttings capacity |
| High-ROP Surface Drilling | Coarse to medium API range | Prevent screen overloading |
| Intermediate Hole | Medium API range | Balance separation and flow |
| Deeper Hole Section | Medium to finer API range | Improve solids control |
| High-Viscosity Mud | Coarser screen or larger screen area | Maintain hydraulic capacity |
| High-Weight Mud | Larger effective screen area | Maintain fluid transmission |
| OBM / SBM | Screen selected for fluid recovery | Reduce valuable mud loss |
| Reactive Formation | Anti-blinding strategy | Maintain usable screen area |
| Offshore / Deepwater | Optimized screen package | Recovery, reliability and spare planning |
The final API Screen Number should match the actual mud properties, circulation rate, solids load and separation objective.
What Affects Shale Shaker Capacity?
A nominal capacity in GPM or m³/h gives a useful starting point, but field performance depends on more than liquid flow.
High-viscosity mud passes through the screen more slowly, while higher mud density increases deck loading. Finer screens remove smaller particles but normally reduce hydraulic throughput.
ROP also changes the operating duty. A fast drilling rate generates more formation cuttings, so a shale shaker can reach its solids-handling limit even when mud flow remains below the published capacity.
Large hole diameters may create high liquid flow and heavy solids loading at the same time. Reactive or sticky formations can also blind the screen and reduce usable open area.
Deck angle, screen condition and fluid distribution further affect performance. A damaged screen reduces separation quality, while poor feeder distribution can overload one part of the deck and leave another section underused.
SGPE therefore sizes an Oilfield Shale Shaker from the complete drilling condition rather than one catalog flow figure.
Deck Angle, Feeder and Mud Distribution
Deck angle helps the crew balance drilling fluid recovery with cuttings transport.
Raising the discharge end increases pool depth and gives the mud more time to pass through the screen. Lowering the deck allows solids to move toward the discharge end faster.
Selected SGPE configurations provide approximately -1° to +5° deck adjustment.
Mud distribution is equally important. If most of the return flow enters one narrow section, that part of the screen can flood or wear prematurely.
SGPE can configure weir feeders, back feeders, top feeders and mud distribution boxes according to the flowline elevation, mud tank arrangement and installation space.
For tandem and triple shale shaker systems, a common mud distribution manifold divides the return flow between several units and helps balance the hydraulic load.
Single, Tandem and Triple Shale Shaker Systems
| Arrangement | Approx. Screen Area | Reference Capacity | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact Single Shaker | 1.35 m² | 50–70 m³/h | Smaller land rigs |
| 4-Panel Single Shaker | 2.73 m² | Up to approx. 140 m³/h | General drilling |
| 5-Panel Single Shaker | 3.4 m² | Up to approx. 175–180 m³/h | High-flow drilling |
| Tandem 4-Panel System | 5.46 m² | Up to approx. 280 m³/h class | High circulation and redundancy |
| Triple 4-Panel System | 8.19 m² | Up to approx. 420 m³/h class | Large rigs and high solids loading |
A single unit is suitable when one shaker provides enough hydraulic and solids-handling capacity.
A Tandem Shale Shaker System adds screen area and provides useful operating redundancy.
A Triple Shale Shaker System is better suited to larger drilling rigs, high circulation rates, high-ROP drilling and demanding surface-hole sections.
SGPE can supply the shaker units together with the common skid, mud distribution arrangement, feeder interfaces, screens and operational spares.
Drilling Shale Shaker Applications
| Application | Main Operating Challenge | Selection Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Surface-Hole Drilling | High flow and high cuttings volume | Large screen area |
| Intermediate Hole | Changing mud and screen requirements | Flexible screen selection |
| Production Section | Tighter solids control | Finer screen capability |
| High-ROP Drilling | Rapid cuttings generation | Strong solids transport |
| Directional Drilling | Changing cuttings behavior | Stable motion |
| Horizontal Drilling | Long lateral circulation | Large effective screen area |
| Extended-Reach Drilling | Sustained circulation | High capacity / multi-shaker |
| Deep Wells | Heavy drilling fluid | Hydraulic capacity |
| HPHT Wells | Dense and complex rheology | Large effective screen area |
| Offshore Platform | Restricted footprint | Compact configuration |
| Jack-Up Rig | Offshore installation | Reliability and maintenance access |
| Semi-Submersible | High-value drilling fluid | Fluid recovery |
| Drillship | High flow in limited space | Compact high-capacity package |
| Deepwater Drilling | OBM/SBM and logistics | Screen life and redundancy |
Land Rig Shale Shaker
A Land Rig Shale Shaker handles returning drilling fluid on exploration and development rigs.
Land projects often prioritize solids-handling capacity, straightforward maintenance and compatibility with existing mud tanks. Typical installations include conventional land rigs, mobile rigs, desert drilling units and multi-well pad systems.
Shale Shaker for Directional and Horizontal Drilling
Directional and horizontal wells can place sustained load on the primary solids-control equipment.
A Shale Shaker for Horizontal Drilling needs enough screen area and reliable cuttings conveyance to maintain stable mud processing through long lateral sections.
For demanding horizontal or extended-reach wells, SGPE can configure larger screen decks, High-G linear motion and multi-shaker packages.
High Capacity Shale Shaker for High ROP Drilling
A High Capacity Shale Shaker becomes particularly useful when rapid drilling produces large cuttings volumes.
Large surface-hole sections can combine high pump rates with heavy solids loads. Under these conditions, available screen area can be more important than nominal GPM alone.
Four-panel, five-panel and multiple-shaker arrangements provide different ways to increase primary screening capacity.
Shale Shaker for Deep and HPHT Wells
Deep and HPHT wells often use higher-density drilling fluids with demanding rheology.
Heavier mud can reduce screen throughput, so SGPE reviews mud weight, viscosity, circulation rate, API Screen Number and effective screen area when configuring equipment for these wells.
Offshore Shale Shaker for Platforms, Jack-Ups and Drillships
SGPE supplies Offshore Shale Shaker configurations for fixed platforms, jack-up rigs, semi-submersibles and drillships.
Offshore projects place greater emphasis on compact footprint, hazardous-area electrical equipment, corrosion protection, reliability and drilling fluid recovery.
Many offshore wells use costly OBM or SBM. Efficient primary screening can therefore reduce fluid losses and improve drilling waste management.
Shale Shaker for WBM, OBM and SBM
| Drilling Fluid | Main Priority | Typical Operating Concern |
|---|---|---|
| Water-Based Mud | High throughput and solids removal | Reactive shale and screen blinding |
| Oil-Based Mud | Maximum reusable-fluid recovery | High mud replacement cost |
| Synthetic-Based Mud | Recovery, reliability and screen life | Offshore and deepwater operation |
| High-Weight Mud | Large effective screen area | Increased deck loading |
| High-Viscosity Mud | Hydraulic transmission | Reduced fine-screen capacity |
A Shale Shaker for WBM needs sufficient hydraulic capacity while still removing drilled solids effectively. Reactive formations may require changes to API Screen Number or deck angle.
A Shale Shaker for OBM places greater emphasis on fluid recovery because unnecessary mud loss with discharged cuttings directly increases operating cost.
A Shale Shaker for SBM often operates on offshore and deepwater rigs, where screen life, equipment reliability and spare-screen planning become particularly important.
SGPE reviews the actual drilling fluid properties before finalizing the shaker and screen package.
Main Shale Shaker Components and Screen Options
A typical shale shaker machine includes a vibrating basket, two vibration motors, screen panels, a screen-locking system, isolation springs, mud feeder, deck-angle adjustment mechanism and electrical control package.
The basket supports the screens and transfers vibration across the deck. The motors generate the selected motion, while the isolation system limits vibration transfer into the supporting structure.
The feeder distributes drilling fluid across the usable screen width, and the locking system keeps the screen panels firmly seated during operation.
| Screen Type | Main Advantages | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Composite Frame Screen | Corrosion resistance, stable geometry, lower handling weight | Modern shale shaker systems |
| Steel Frame Screen | Strong support and broad legacy compatibility | Existing rigs and replacement projects |
| Flat Screen | Conventional separation surface | General drilling solids control |
| 3D Corrugated Screen | Increased effective surface geometry | High-capacity applications |
For replacement screen requirements, SGPE can work from the installed shaker model, panel dimensions, part number, technical drawing, field sample or clear photographs.
Shale Shaker in a Complete Solids Control System
A Drilling Mud Shale Shaker performs best when downstream treatment equipment is sized for the same operating conditions.
| Equipment | Main Function | Typical Position |
|---|---|---|
| Drilling Shale Shaker | Primary drilled-solids removal | First solids-control stage |
| Vacuum Degasser | Removes entrained gas | After shale shaker |
| Desander | Removes larger hydrocyclone-class solids | Secondary stage |
| Desilter | Removes finer hydrocyclone-class solids | Downstream stage |
| Mud Cleaner | Hydrocyclone separation plus secondary screening | Secondary treatment |
| Decanter Centrifuge | Fine solids separation and mud conditioning | Later treatment |
Supporting equipment can include mud agitators, mud guns, centrifugal pumps, shear pumps, transfer pumps, jet mud mixers, mud hoppers and mud tanks.
A larger centrifuge cannot fully compensate for poor primary screening. Removing unwanted solids early reduces the processing load throughout the mud system.
SGPE can supply individual Oilfield Solids Control Equipment or coordinate several machines as a complete drilling mud solids-control package for new rigs, brownfield upgrades and EPC projects.
Replacement Shale Shaker for Existing Drilling Rigs
SGPE supplies Replacement Shale Shaker equipment for existing land and offshore drilling rigs.
A replacement project involves more than matching the old machine’s nominal capacity. The new equipment must fit the existing mud tank and connect correctly with the flowline, feeder and solids-discharge arrangement.
The engineering review covers the mud tank opening, mounting points, available footprint, flowline elevation, feeder height, discharge direction, maintenance clearance and electrical supply.
If original drawings are unavailable, field measurements, equipment photographs, old part numbers, screen dimensions and mud tank drawings can provide the required interface information.
When the replacement shaker uses a different footprint, SGPE can configure a transition frame or custom mounting skid.
This gives drilling contractors a practical path to replace obsolete or unsupported equipment without rebuilding the complete mud system.
Shale Shaker Testing, Inspection and Documentation
SGPE carries out functional inspection before shipment.
Inspection can cover the main frame, vibrating basket, vibration motors, motor rotation, screen deck, screen-locking system, isolation springs, feeder, deck adjustment, electrical controls, coating and overall dimensions.
Each unit undergoes a no-load operating check to confirm stable vibration and correct motor operation.
Project documentation can include a technical data sheet, general arrangement drawing, dimensional drawing, electrical information, packing list, operation and maintenance manual, inspection records, screen information and spare-parts list.
For EPC and project-based orders, the documentation package can follow the approved technical scope.
Drilling Shale Shaker Maintenance
| Inspection Item | What to Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Shaker Screens | Tears, wear and blinding | Maintains solids separation |
| Screen Wedges | Tightness and wear | Keeps screens seated |
| Screen Seals | Damage and mud bypass | Prevents bypass |
| Isolation Springs | Damage and uneven compression | Maintains stable vibration |
| Vibration Motors | Noise, fasteners and lubrication | Maintains operating performance |
| Structural Bolts | Looseness | Reduces fatigue risk |
| Mud Feeder | Buildup and uneven flow | Improves screen utilization |
| Deck Adjustment | Movement and locking | Maintains correct operating angle |
Damaged screens should be replaced promptly, and the feeder, deck and sealing surfaces should be kept clean.
Correct screen installation, balanced mud distribution, suitable deck angle and the right API Screen Number normally improve separation more effectively than simply increasing vibration intensity.
How to Select the Right Drilling Shale Shaker
| Selection Parameter | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Maximum Mud Flow | Defines hydraulic capacity |
| Hole Diameter | Influences cuttings volume |
| Expected ROP | Defines solids loading |
| Mud Weight | Affects deck loading |
| Mud Rheology / Viscosity | Affects screen throughput |
| WBM / OBM / SBM | Defines fluid-recovery priorities |
| API Screen Number | Affects separation and flow |
| Hole Section | Defines operating demand |
| Formation Type | Influences cuttings behavior and screen blinding |
| Number of Shakers | Defines total screen area |
| Mud Tank Size | Defines installation footprint |
| Flowline Elevation | Determines feeder design |
| Maintenance Clearance | Affects screen replacement |
| Voltage / Frequency | Defines motor and control package |
| Hazardous Area | Defines electrical requirements |
| Rig Type | Affects system layout |
| Existing Equipment | Defines replacement interface |
The shale shaker with the highest published flow rating is not automatically the best choice.
SGPE uses the well program and installation data to determine the required screen area, motion type, feeder arrangement and number of shaker units.
Drilling Shale Shaker Price and Quotation
The Drilling Shale Shaker price depends on the complete project scope rather than one nominal capacity figure.
| Cost Factor | Commercial Impact |
|---|---|
| Required Capacity | Determines shaker size and screen area |
| Motion Type | Linear / High-G / Dual Motion configurations differ |
| Screen Quantity | Changes deck size and screen package |
| Vibration Motors | Power and hazardous-area requirements affect scope |
| IECEx / ATEX | Changes the electrical package |
| Offshore Coating | Adds corrosion-protection requirements |
| Feeder Design | Standard or project-specific arrangement |
| Skid Configuration | Single / Tandem / Triple |
| Screen Package | API Screen Numbers and quantities affect scope |
| Replacement Interface | May require custom mounting structures |
| Documentation | EPC and project requirements affect scope |
| Spare Parts | Commissioning and operational spares add supply scope |
Customers comparing a Shale Shaker for Sale, Drilling Shale Shaker Price or several shale shaker quotations should compare the complete technical configuration, not only the purchase price.
A lower-priced machine with inadequate screen area, unsuitable electrical equipment or the wrong installation interface can create much higher modification and operating costs at the rig site.
SGPE can quote standalone shale shaker machines, replacement units, tandem and triple systems or complete solids-control packages.
SGPE Shale Shaker Manufacturing and Project Support
SGPE is an oilfield equipment manufacturer based in Yancheng, Jiangsu Province, China, with more than 20 years of petroleum equipment experience.
Our manufacturing operation covers approximately 20,000 m², including about 10,000 m² of building area. SGPE has more than 100 employees, over 25 professional technical personnel and more than 100 sets of large, medium and precision processing equipment.
For shale shaker projects, this manufacturing base supports engineering, production, inspection, screen supply, spare parts and technical documentation through one project interface.
| Buyer Requirement | SGPE Supply Scope |
|---|---|
| New Drilling Rig | Shale Shaker + Screens + Solids Control Equipment |
| Standalone Replacement | Replacement Shale Shaker + Interface Review |
| Brownfield Upgrade | Custom Layout / Transition Skid |
| High-Flow Rig | Tandem / Triple Shaker Package |
| Offshore Project | Hazardous-Area and Corrosion Options |
| Multi-Well Campaign | Standardized Equipment and Screen Package |
| Rig Fleet Standardization | Common Equipment and Spare Strategy |
| EPC Project | Technical Data / Drawings / Documentation |
| Spare Screen Requirement | Multiple API Screen Numbers |
| Operational Spares | Screens / Wedges / Springs / Seals / Motor Components |
| Distributor Supply | Repeat and Project-Based Supply |
SGPE supports drilling contractors, rig owners, EPC contractors, oilfield service companies, solids-control integrators and petroleum equipment distributors.
Customers can source the shaker, matching screens, operational spares and downstream solids-control equipment within one coordinated project package.
Why Choose SGPE as Your Drilling Shale Shaker Manufacturer?
SGPE combines manufacturer-direct supply with application-based technical review.
Our team does not select equipment from nominal GPM alone. We review drilling fluid properties, hole size, ROP, solids loading, API Screen Number, available space, feeder arrangement and downstream equipment before finalizing the configuration.
Customers can source matching API shaker screens, commissioning spares and operational replacement parts together with the main equipment.
For new rigs and EPC projects, SGPE can coordinate several solids-control machines within one supply package. For existing rigs, dimensions, drawings and site photographs can support replacement and retrofit engineering.
Onshore and offshore projects can use different electrical systems, coating schemes, feeder arrangements and skids according to project requirements.
This manufacturer-direct approach reduces interface risk and gives drilling contractors, rig owners and EPC teams one point of contact for equipment, screens, spares and technical documentation.
Information Required for a Shale Shaker Quotation
| RFQ Information | What to Provide |
|---|---|
| Required Quantity | Number of Units |
| Required Capacity | m³/h or GPM |
| Maximum Mud Flow | m³/h or GPM |
| Drilling Fluid | WBM / OBM / SBM |
| Mud Weight | SG / kg/m³ / ppg |
| Mud Rheology / Viscosity | Available Data |
| Well Type | Oil / Gas / Exploration / Development |
| Hole Diameter | Hole Program |
| Hole Section | Surface / Intermediate / Production |
| Expected ROP | Available Drilling Data |
| Formation Information | Available Formation Data |
| Screen Requirement | API Screen Number |
| Preferred Motion | Linear / High-G / Dual Motion |
| Electrical Supply | Voltage / Frequency / Phase |
| Hazardous Area | IECEx / ATEX / Project Standard |
| Rig Type | Land / Platform / Jack-Up / Semi-Submersible / Drillship |
| Installation | Existing Tank / New System / Common Skid |
| Flowline Height | For Feeder Selection |
| Installation Space | L × W × H |
| Existing Shaker Model | For Replacement Projects |
| Existing Screen Size | For Screen Compatibility |
| Spare Screens | API Numbers and Quantities |
| Spare Parts | Commissioning / Operational Package |
| Delivery Destination | Port / City / Country |
For a new drilling project, maximum mud flow, drilling fluid properties, hole program and rig type provide a practical starting point.
For replacement equipment, photographs of the existing shaker, flowline, feeder, mud tank and mounting arrangement help SGPE review the installation interface more efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drilling Shale Shakers
1. What is a Drilling Shale Shaker and what does it do?
A Drilling Shale Shaker is the primary mechanical solids-control machine used to separate drilled cuttings from returning drilling fluid. Mud from the well flows through the rig flowline into the shaker feeder, where it is distributed across vibrating screens. Reusable drilling fluid and smaller particles pass through the screen into the mud tank, while larger drilled solids move toward the discharge end.
Because the shale shaker is normally the first stage of a drilling fluid solids-control system, its performance directly affects downstream equipment such as desanders, desilters, mud cleaners and decanter centrifuges. A properly selected Oilfield Shale Shaker helps reduce low-gravity solids, recover more usable drilling mud and maintain more stable fluid properties during land, offshore, directional and horizontal drilling operations.
2. What Drilling Shale Shaker capacity should I choose for my rig?
The correct Drilling Shale Shaker capacity depends on more than the rig’s maximum mud circulation rate. SGPE single-unit configurations typically cover approximately 50–180 m³/h, or 220–790 GPM, while tandem and triple systems can provide additional processing capacity for larger drilling programs.
Actual field throughput changes with mud viscosity, mud weight, API Screen Number, hole diameter, formation characteristics, expected ROP and drilled-solids loading. A surface-hole section with a high circulation rate and rapid cuttings generation may require more effective screen area than a deeper section with a lower flow rate.
For high-ROP drilling, large-diameter holes, horizontal wells or offshore operations, SGPE evaluates both hydraulic capacity and solids-handling requirements before recommending a suitable shale shaker configuration.
3. What is the difference between Linear Motion, High G and Dual Motion Shale Shakers?
A Linear Motion Shale Shaker uses two counter-rotating vibration motors to produce straight-line movement across the screen deck. This provides reliable cuttings transport and practical mud throughput for many land rigs, offshore rigs and conventional drilling programs.
A High G Shale Shaker operates with greater vibratory acceleration and is useful when the rig encounters heavy solids loading, high ROP or large cuttings volumes. Selected SGPE configurations provide approximately 7.5–8.0 G, depending on the design.
A Dual Motion Shale Shaker offers more than one vibration characteristic, allowing the crew to adapt the equipment when drilling fluid properties or solids conditions change. The most suitable motion type depends on the mud system, formation, screen selection, expected flow rate and drilling program rather than G force alone.
4. How do I choose the correct API Shaker Screen for a Drilling Shale Shaker?
The correct API Shaker Screen should match the drilling fluid properties, circulation rate, solids loading and required separation level. Coarser API Screen Numbers generally provide higher hydraulic throughput, while finer screens remove smaller particles but can reduce mud-processing capacity.
For large surface holes and high-ROP drilling, the screen selection normally prioritizes fluid capacity and resistance to overloading. Intermediate and production-hole sections may use finer screens when tighter solids control becomes more important. OBM and SBM applications also place greater emphasis on recovering valuable drilling fluid instead of losing it with discharged cuttings.
The best screen is therefore not always the finest available screen. SGPE selects the screen package together with the Drilling Mud Shale Shaker so separation efficiency, fluid recovery, screen life and hydraulic capacity remain properly balanced.
5. What do API RP 13C, API Screen Number and D100 mean?
API RP 13C provides a recognized framework for evaluating drilling fluid processing equipment and shale shaker screens. Important screen information includes the API Screen Number, D100 separation range, conductance and non-blanked area.
The API Screen Number helps users compare the separation characteristics of different modern multilayer shaker screens more consistently than traditional descriptions such as “100 mesh” or “200 mesh.” D100 indicates the particle-size separation range associated with the screen evaluation.
These values describe the performance of the shale shaker screen, not certification of the complete shale shaker machine. For drilling contractors and rig operators, API screen data is especially useful when planning screen changes between surface, intermediate and deeper hole sections or when optimizing WBM, OBM and SBM solids-control programs.
6. Can the same Drilling Shale Shaker process WBM, OBM and SBM?
Yes. A properly configured Drilling Shale Shaker can process Water-Based Mud, Oil-Based Mud and Synthetic-Based Mud. The main difference is how the screen package and operating parameters are selected for each drilling fluid.
WBM applications often prioritize hydraulic throughput and effective drilled-solids removal, particularly when reactive formations increase screen blinding. OBM and SBM operations usually place greater emphasis on drilling fluid recovery because unnecessary fluid loss with discharged cuttings can significantly increase operating costs.
Mud density, viscosity, rheology, temperature, API Screen Number and deck angle also affect performance. For offshore platforms, drillships and deepwater wells that commonly use OBM or SBM, SGPE reviews these fluid properties together with the required flow rate and available screen area before configuring the Oilfield Shale Shaker.
7. Should I choose a 4-panel or 5-panel Shale Shaker?
A typical 4 Panel Shale Shaker provides approximately 2.73 m² of effective screen area and around 140 m³/h or 616 GPM reference capacity. This configuration is suitable for many conventional land and offshore drilling applications where equipment footprint, screen area and mud-processing capacity need to remain balanced.
A 5 Panel High Capacity Shale Shaker provides approximately 3.4 m² of screen area and can reach around 175–180 m³/h reference capacity under suitable operating conditions. The additional screen area is valuable during high-flow drilling, high-ROP operations, large surface-hole sections or when finer screens are required.
The final choice should consider the available mud tank space, maximum circulation rate, solids loading, screen strategy and whether the rig requires one machine or a multi-shaker arrangement.
8. When should a drilling rig use tandem or triple shale shakers?
A tandem or triple shale shaker system becomes useful when a single unit cannot provide enough hydraulic capacity, solids-handling capability or effective screen area for the drilling program.
A tandem four-panel system can provide approximately 5.46 m² of combined screen area, while three matching four-panel units can provide approximately 8.19 m². Multi-shaker systems are commonly considered for high circulation rates, large surface-hole drilling, high-ROP wells, horizontal and extended-reach drilling, offshore platforms and other operations where solids loading can change rapidly.
The additional units also provide operational redundancy. If one shaker requires screen replacement or maintenance, the remaining units can continue processing part of the return flow. SGPE can supply the shakers together with common skids, feeders, mud distribution manifolds, screens and operational spares.
9. Can SGPE supply Offshore Shale Shakers with IECEx or ATEX options?
Yes. SGPE can configure Offshore Shale Shaker packages for fixed platforms, jack-up rigs, semi-submersibles, drillships and other offshore drilling environments.
Offshore applications normally place greater emphasis on hazardous-area electrical requirements, compact equipment footprint, corrosion protection, maintenance access and drilling fluid recovery. IECEx or ATEX electrical packages can be selected according to the project specification, together with the required voltage, frequency, feeder arrangement and offshore coating system.
For deepwater drilling or projects using high-value OBM and SBM, SGPE can also review screen area, mud flow, spare-screen planning and redundancy requirements. The final offshore shale shaker configuration is therefore based on both the drilling duty and the installation conditions rather than on nominal capacity alone.
10. Can SGPE supply a Replacement Shale Shaker for an existing drilling rig?
Yes. SGPE supplies Replacement Shale Shaker equipment for existing land rigs and offshore drilling systems, including brownfield upgrades where the original shaker is obsolete or no longer supported.
A replacement project requires more than matching the old machine’s GPM rating. SGPE reviews the mud tank opening, mounting points, flowline height, feeder position, solids discharge direction, available footprint, maintenance clearance, electrical supply and existing screen dimensions.
When original drawings are unavailable, site photographs, field measurements, existing model information and old part numbers can be used during the technical review. If the new equipment uses a different footprint, SGPE can configure a transition frame or custom skid so the replacement shaker can be integrated without rebuilding the complete solids-control system.
11. What affects Drilling Shale Shaker price?
The Drilling Shale Shaker price depends on the complete technical configuration rather than only the nominal flow rate. Capacity, motion type, screen quantity, effective screen area, vibration motors, feeder design, skid arrangement and electrical specification all influence the final quotation.
Offshore projects may also require IECEx or ATEX electrical packages, higher corrosion-protection levels or project-specific documentation. Tandem and triple systems require additional shaker units, common skids and mud distribution arrangements, while replacement projects can require custom mounting structures or interface modifications.
The number and API Screen Numbers of supplied screens, commissioning spares and operational spare parts also affect the commercial scope. Buyers comparing a Shale Shaker for Sale should therefore compare the complete technical package rather than only the equipment purchase price.
12. What information should I send SGPE for a Drilling Shale Shaker quotation?
To prepare an accurate Drilling Shale Shaker quotation, SGPE needs enough information to understand both the drilling duty and installation conditions. The most useful information includes the required quantity, maximum mud flow, drilling fluid type, mud weight, rheology, hole diameter, expected ROP, API Screen Number, preferred motion type, rig type, voltage, hazardous-area requirement and available installation space.
For a replacement shale shaker, the existing model, screen dimensions, mud tank opening, flowline height and clear photographs of the current installation are also valuable.
Based on these operating and installation requirements, SGPE can recommend the appropriate shale shaker configuration, screen package, feeder, electrical package and skid arrangement, and then provide the corresponding technical proposal and commercial quotation.
Related Oilfield Solids Control Equipment
A drilling shale shaker normally works as part of a larger drilling fluid treatment system.
Related equipment includes Shale Shaker Screens, Vacuum Degassers, Desanders, Desilters, Mud Cleaners, Decanter Centrifuges, Mud Gas Separators, Mud Agitators, Centrifugal Pumps, Shear Pumps, Jet Mud Mixers, Mud Hoppers and Mud Tanks.
SGPE can supply one replacement machine or coordinate several products as a complete Oilfield Solids Control System for new rigs, brownfield upgrades and EPC projects.
Request a Drilling Shale Shaker Quote from SGPE
SGPE supplies Drilling Shale Shakers for land and offshore drilling projects, including linear-motion, High-G, dual-motion, tandem, triple and replacement configurations.
To prepare the correct technical and commercial offer, please send us your required quantity, mud flow rate, drilling fluid properties, hole program, API Screen Number, rig type, electrical specification and installation dimensions. For replacement projects, existing shaker details, drawings or site photos are also helpful.
Email: info@sgpe.com
Tel/WhatsApp: +86 186-1599-5239
