Multi-functional linear motion shaker for processing drilling mud

Abstract

A multi-functional linear motion shaker includes a rectangular outer support frame with a tank, often referred to as a 'possum belly', for receiving the incoming drilling fluid flow. A set of adjustable louvers and a tray is positioned on the side of the tank. The adjustable louvers and tray serve to screen out the larger and stickier drill cuttings or solids. A vibrating deck assembly is positioned within the outer support frame adjacent the tank and tray assembly. The vibrating deck assembly is of a double deck design whose upper and lower decks include cross members to support the mud screens. The upper and lower decks are vertically spaced apart and connected together into one unit by vertical structural members. A moveable plate is positioned on the upper deck adjacent the adjustable louvers and tray. This moveable plate can be positioned to direct drilling fluid flow to the upper deck or repositioned to redirect fluid flow to the lower deck and bypass the upper deck. The moveable plate allows the shaker to function as a multi-functional linear motion shaker which allows configuration of the shaker as a single or double deck flowline shaker, as a drying shaker or as a combination simultaneous flowline shaker and drying shaker. The multi-functional linear motion shaker allows easy replacement of upper or lower screens independently of one another when used in a double deck shaker configuration.