GN Solids Control has recently delivered a Solids Removal Hydraulic Drive Centrifuge Unit to support a core drilling project, further demonstrating the company’s ability to provide specialized solutions for mining and exploration drilling operations. Core drilling requires efficient fluid management systems to ensure drilling accuracy, reduce operational costs, and minimize environmental footprint. The new unit combines advanced hydraulic drive technology with GN’s proven decanter centrifuge design to meet these demands.
At the heart of the system is the GN Decanter Centrifuge GNLW223FHD, a compact yet high-performance centrifuge designed specifically for core drilling applications. With a bowl diameter of 9 inches, the 223FHD is engineered to handle fine particle separation at relatively low flow rates, making it ideal for core drilling where drilling mud volumes are smaller compared to oil and gas operations. The unit effectively removes fine solids from drilling fluids, improving mud quality and prolonging the life of drilling tools.
The centrifuge is powered by a hydraulic drive system, which offers several key advantages over traditional electric-driven systems:
Operational Flexibility – Hydraulic drive allows for independent adjustment of bowl and conveyor speeds, enabling operators to fine-tune separation performance for different geological conditions.
Field Adaptability – Unlike fixed-frequency electric systems, hydraulic drives perform well under fluctuating loads and varying fluid characteristics.
Durability – Hydraulic systems are robust and reliable in remote drilling sites where power conditions may be unstable.
In addition to the centrifuge, the unit integrates into a Solids Removal Unit (SRU). The SRU functions as a compact and modular platform that combines separation processes, enabling efficient handling of drilling muds in a single package. It is designed for quick mobilization, simple operation, and ease of maintenance — key requirements for core drilling contractors who frequently relocate equipment between sites.
This project underscores several benefits of GN’s solution for core drilling clients:
Improved Drilling Efficiency – Cleaner drilling fluids stabilize boreholes and reduce downtime caused by fluid-related issues.
Extended Equipment Life – By removing abrasive fines, the system helps protect pumps, bits, and other critical drilling tools.
Environmental Compliance – Reduced waste and cleaner fluids contribute to safer disposal practices and more sustainable drilling operations.
Compact Design – The small footprint of the GNLW223FHD unit ensures it can be deployed in space-constrained drilling locations without sacrificing performance.
GN’s commitment to the mining and exploration industry is reflected in its ability to customize equipment for specific projects. Whether for core drilling, HDD, or oilfield applications, GN continues to develop modular and efficient solids control solutions that improve productivity while reducing costs.
The delivery of the Hydraulic Drive Centrifuge Unit with GNLW223FHD marks another milestone in GN’s ongoing efforts to support global drilling companies with reliable, field-proven technologies.