Systems and Methods for Drying Drill Cuttings

Abstract

Systems and methods for separating fluids from drill cuttings, specifically, shakers that incorporate modifications including vacuum systems and/or partitions and methods of operating such shakers to affect a high degree of fluid separation. The systems and methods are effective across a variety of screen sizes, vacuum flows and vacuum designs. The systems are also particularly effective in assisting in the separation of gases from drilling fluids.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A modular extension system (MEU) for operative connection to a downstream end of a shaker comprising:
 a body configured for operative connection to a shaker bed on the shaker, the body supporting a screen and a fluid collection system operatively connected to the screen.   
     
     
         2 . The modular extension system as in  claim 1  wherein the body includes:
 an open funnel-shaped manifold for draining drilling fluid towards a vacuum-manifold opening wherein the vacuum-manifold opening includes a vacuum connection system for connection to a vacuum system; 
 a front member, back member and side gussets operatively connected to the funnel-shaped manifold wherein the front member, back member and side gussets operatively support a screen and screen-support system. 
 
     
     
         3 . The modular extension system as in  claim 2  wherein the side gussets include brackets for operative connection of the side gussets to a shaker frame.