GN Solids Control has successfully delivered a complete drilling waste treatment package to an Africa-based drilling company, featuring two decanter centrifuges (GNLW363CD-VFD) and one vertical cuttings dryer (GNCD930G), along with matching screw conveyors, centrifuge feed pumps, and cuttings dryer washing pumps. This integrated solution is designed to improve drilling waste management efficiency while meeting environmental and operational requirements in challenging field conditions.

Drilling operations in Africa often face harsh environments, variable waste characteristics, and increasing pressure to reduce disposal volumes and recover valuable drilling fluids. GN’s combined centrifuge and cuttings dryer solution addresses these challenges by separating solids from drilling fluids efficiently and producing drier cuttings suitable for easier handling and disposal.

At the core of the system are two GNLW363CD-VFD decanter centrifuges, which are designed for continuous solid-liquid separation of drilling fluids. The 14-inch bowl centrifuges are equipped with variable frequency drives (VFD), allowing operators to precisely adjust bowl speed and differential speed based on feed conditions. This flexibility ensures stable performance even when drilling fluid properties change, such as variations in solids content or viscosity.
The centrifuges feature wear-resistant materials, including hard-facing protection on the screw flights and replaceable wear sleeves, making them well suited for abrasive drilling solids. By efficiently removing fine solids, the centrifuges help maintain drilling fluid quality, extend the service life of downstream equipment, and reduce overall drilling fluid consumption.

Complementing the centrifuge units is the GNCD930G vertical cuttings dryer, a key component for oil-based and synthetic-based drilling waste treatment. The cuttings dryer further processes drilled cuttings discharged from shale shakers, using high-speed centrifugal force to reduce liquid content on the solids. Typical results show significantly reduced oil-on-cuttings levels, helping operators meet environmental regulations while recovering valuable base oil.
The GNCD930G is designed with a robust vertical structure, an adjustable scraper system, and a reliable lubrication system to ensure continuous operation with minimal maintenance. Its compact footprint makes it suitable for both onshore and offshore drilling sites, where space efficiency is critical.

To ensure smooth and reliable operation, GN also supplied matching screw conveyors for solids transfer, centrifuge feed pumps for stable slurry feeding, and washing pumps for the cuttings dryer. These auxiliary systems play a crucial role in maintaining consistent flow, preventing blockages, and supporting automated operation across the entire waste treatment line.
All equipment was manufactured and tested according to GN’s strict quality control standards before shipment. Factory testing included mechanical inspections, vibration checks, and performance verification to ensure reliability upon installation at the drilling site.

With this project, GN Solids Control once again demonstrates its capability to provide integrated drilling waste management solutions tailored to regional requirements. By combining decanter centrifuges, vertical cuttings dryers, and supporting equipment, GN helps drilling contractors in Africa improve operational efficiency, reduce waste disposal costs, and enhance environmental compliance.

GN continues to support oil and gas projects worldwide with proven separation technology, durable equipment design, and professional technical support.