When troubleshooting a desilter, you can check the pump, supply lines, cones, and screens. You can also try adjusting the pump speed or opening size, or cleaning out any blockages.

Pump

  • Check that the centrifugal pump impeller is large enough to deliver the required pressure
  • Check that the centrifugal pump is running at the correct speed
  • Check that the supply line from the pump to the manifold is the correct size

Supply lines

  • Check that the supply line to the manifold is not plugged
  • Check that the centrifugal pump suction is not plugged

Cones

  • Check for plugging at the feed inlet or outlet
  • Check for backflow from the overflow manifold
  • Check for low inlet velocity
  • Check for repeated plugging of apexes
  • Check for wear and plugging, especially in smaller cones
  • Remove the apex nut and clean out any blockages
  • Remove the entire cone to check for blockage at the inlet

Screens

  • Check for torn screens [2]
  • Use a finer mesh screen on the shaker to remove more solids before they enter the hydrocyclones [5]

Other

  • Flush the feed manifold between wells to remove trash
  • Keep the shale shaker well maintained

Last Update: January 31, 2025