Overview of GN Solids Control Co., Ltd.
GN Solids Control is a Chinese company that specializes in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of solids control equipment and waste management systems for the oil & gas drilling, HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling), CBM (Coal Bed Methane), and environmental industries.
A GN Agitator is a motor-driven mechanical mixer installed in drilling fluid tanks (mud pits) to keep the fluid homogeneous and prevent its components from settling. Its primary purpose is to maintain a uniform consistency in the drilling mud, ensuring that solids (like barite, the weighting material) do not settle out and that all additives are properly suspended.
1. Key Functions and Importance
In a drilling operation, drilling mud is a critical and complex mixture. If left stagnant, its components will separate, leading to severe operational issues:
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Prevents Solids Settlement: Keeps heavy weighting materials (Barite, Hematite) and drilled cuttings in suspension.
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Maintains Mud Uniformity: Ensures the mud properties (density, viscosity) are consistent throughout the tank, which is crucial for accurate measurement and control.
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Aids in Mixing: Helps incorporate new additives (polymers, chemicals) into the fluid system efficiently.
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Avoids “Dead Zones”: Eliminates stagnant areas in the tank where solids can accumulate and solidify, which are very difficult to remix later.
Without effective agitation, the mud becomes inconsistent, leading to poor wellbore stability, inaccurate mud readings, and potential loss of circulation.
2. Design and Construction Features (Why GN Agitators Stand Out)
GN agitators are known for their robust and practical design, built for the harsh conditions of drilling rigs.
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Heavy-Duty Gearbox: The heart of the agitator. GN uses a high-torque, helical gearbox designed for smooth operation, high efficiency, and long service life. It is typically filled with high-quality lubricant for maintenance-free operation.
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Robust Impeller (Propeller): The impeller is designed to create a strong axial flow pattern (top-to-bottom circulation) rather than just a vortex. This ensures the entire content of the tank, from top to bottom, is moving. They are often made from abrasion-resistant materials or coated with rubber to withstand the abrasive nature of drilling fluids.
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Structural Steel Construction: The main frame, shaft, and mounting base are built from high-strength steel to handle constant vibration and load.
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Explosion-Proof Motor: GN offers motors certified for hazardous areas (e.g., Ex d, Ex e standards), which is a critical safety requirement on oil and gas rigs where flammable gases may be present.
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Customizable Shaft Length: The shaft connecting the gearbox to the impeller can be customized to fit the specific depth of the customer’s mud tank.
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Effective Sealing System: A high-quality mechanical seal prevents drilling fluid from entering the gearbox, which is vital for preventing failure.
3. How It Works
The operation is straightforward but effective:
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The explosion-proof electric motor provides power.
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The motor turns the input shaft of the heavy-duty gearbox.
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The gearbox reduces the speed and significantly increases the torque output.
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This high-torque, low-speed rotation drives the long shaft and the impeller submerged in the mud.
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The specially designed impeller pushes the fluid axially and radially, creating a controlled, powerful flow that ensures total tank movement and prevents any solids from settling.
4. Common Applications
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Main Active Tanks: Agitating the primary drilling fluid before it is pumped downhole.
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Suction Tanks: Ensuring the pump receives fluid of consistent density.
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Mixing Tanks: Where new mud is built or chemicals are added.
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Weighting Material Tanks (e.g., Barite Tanks): Preventing the extremely dense barite from settling into a solid, unusable mass.
For the cases details, please find MichaelSong below to have a prompt response.
Whatsapp: + 86 178 0179 9913
Email: michael@gnsolidscontrol.com/michael@gnseparation.com
