Published on: Mar 21,
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In oil and gas drilling operations, the shale shaker acts as the first line of defense in solids control. Its performance directly impacts how clean the drilling fluid stays. One of the most critical factors behind that performance? Choosing the right shaker screen size. But “size” doesn’t just mean the screen’s length and width. It also includes mesh count, API designation, and D100 cut point. These technical specs affect how well the screen separates solids from fluid.
To select the ideal screen for your oil or gas drilling rig, you’ll need to factor in well conditions, mud properties, cutting size, and the shaker’s design. Properly matching screens to each drilling phase results in better separation, lower costs, and smoother operations overall.
When you first hear about shaker screens, your instinct might be to ask, “How fine is the mesh?” or “What’s the size?” But if you only focus on one number, you might end up choosing the wrong screen for the job. To pick the right one, you need to look at three key dimensions: Mesh count, API designation, and Physical dimensions.
If you’ve worked with shakers before, “mesh count” is probably the first thing that comes to mind. When someone says an “80 mesh” screen, they’re talking about a screen woven with 80 wires per inch. The higher the mesh number, the smaller the openings—and the finer the particles it can filter. But there’s a trade-off: finer mesh can slow down the flow rate and reduce fluid handling capacity.
Conversely, screens with lower mesh counts let more mud through and offer faster flow, but they miss finer solids. It’s a balancing act.
Another thing to remember: not all “80 mesh” screens are made the same. Wire thickness and weave pattern vary between manufacturers. So even if two screens have the same mesh number, their actual separation performance might differ. That’s why the oilfield has widely adopted the API Screen Number system—to create a more reliable standard.
Unlike mesh count, the API number reflects actual tested performance, especially the D100 cut point—the particle size at which the screen removes 100% of solids in lab testing. If you only rely on mesh count, your screen might not perform as expected. But when you use the API rating, you get a better idea of the screen’s real-world performance.
You’ve probably seen tags that read “API 100” or “API 120.” These aren’t just marketing terms—they follow the API RP 13C standard. Each API number represents a range of particle sizes the screen is capable of removing, based on lab testing.
For example, an API 100 screen captures solids between 137.5 to 165 microns. If you’re drilling in fine formations and need to trap smaller cuttings, you might go with an API 140 or API 200 screen.
Even if two screens are labeled “80 mesh” or “120 mesh,” as long as they share the same API rating, you can count on similar cut-point performance in the field.
Here’s a quick reference chart of common API designations and their D100 ranges:
API Number D100 Range (μm) API 20 780.0 – 925.0 API 25 655.0 – 780.0 API 30 550.0 – 655.0 API 35 462.5 – 550.0 API 40 390.0 – 462.5 API 45 327.5 – 390.0 API 50 275.0 – 327.5 API 60 231.0 – 275.0 API 70 196.0 – 231.0 API 80 165.0 – 196.0 API 100 137.5 – 165.0 API 120 116.5 – 137.5 API 140 98.0 – 116.5 API 170 82.5 – 98.0 API 200 69.0 – 82.5 API 230 58.0 – 69.0 API 270 49.0 – 58.0 API 325 41.5 – 49.0 API 400 35.0 – 41.5Note: API numbers are not direct conversions from mesh count. They’re based on test data. So while two “Mesh 80” screens may perform differently, two “API 80” screens should give similar cut-point results—regardless of who made them.
Beyond API rating, the physical dimensions of the shaker screen are just as critical. If you’ve worked with different shaker brands, you know the screens aren’t one-size-fits-all. You might come across sizes like 585× mm for a Mongoose screen or 695× mm for a Derrick FLC500.
These dimensions determine whether the screen fits properly on a specific shaker model. They also affect the screen’s frame tensioning method and whether it’s flat or wave-shaped. Even the best-rated screen won’t work if it doesn’t physically fit.
That’s why, before buying or replacing screens, always double-check the shaker model. Better yet, provide the exact length, width, and thickness to your supplier to avoid any compatibility issues.
Here’s a quick look at some popular shaker models and their screen dimensions:
Shaker Brand / Model Typical Screen Size (mm) Notes MI-Swaco Mongoose 585 × Composite frame ~11.5 kg; Steel frame ~13.5 kg Derrick FLC500 695 × Available in flat (PWP) or pyramid (PMD) design NOV Brandt Cobra 635 × Both composite and steel frames available VSM300 (Scalping Deck) 685 × 940 Different decks use different sizes (Primary / Secondary)Tricks:
When selecting shaker screens for a drilling project, finer isn’t always better, and one-size-fits-all doesn’t work either.
Start with the well. Deeper wells often produce finer cuttings and demand higher fluid clarity. In those cases, you’ll likely need finer screens, like API 140 or API 200, to capture small solids. But for shallow sections—especially when drilling through soft formations with large cuttings—you’ll want coarser screens like API 60 or API 80. These allow more fluid to pass through and handle higher flow rates, even if they’re less precise.
Mud properties also matter. High-density, high-viscosity muds tend to clog finer mesh quickly. That slows down processing and cuts efficiency. On the other hand, if your drilling fluid is thin, clean, and flows well, you can go for finer mesh to improve solids control. As the well goes deeper, your screens usually need to get finer. One screen type won’t work from top to bottom.
Even if you’ve picked the right API number, it’s not enough. You need to confirm whether the screen physically fits your shaker. For example, the MI-Swaco Mongoose shaker uses screens sized 585 × mm, while the Derrick FLC500 needs 695 × mm screens. If the size is off—even by a bit—the screen won’t fit or seal properly. That means lost time and money.
Also, different brands use different mounting systems. Some screens have hook strips, while others use composite frames with locking tabs. If you’re unsure, it’s best to tell your supplier exactly which shaker model you’re using. Better yet, send them a sample screen or a detailed size drawing. It’ll save a lot of back-and-forth.
As mentioned earlier, the API screen number is now the most reliable industry standard for gauging screen performance. But if you tell your supplier, “I need a 100 mesh screen,” don’t be surprised if they ask: “Do you mean Mesh 100 or API 100?” Because they’re not the same.
Here’s a simple example:
An API 120 screen has a D100 cut point between 116.5 to 137.5 microns. That means it can reliably remove medium-fine solids—perfect for mid-to-late stages of drilling when cuttings get smaller.
If you’re unfamiliar with API ratings, you can work backward from the D100 cut size. This tells you what particle size you want to capture, which is especially helpful when drilling through tough zones like shale or clay-rich formations.
A common myth on site is that finer mesh means better quality. This is not true. In high-viscosity or high-solids sections, a fine screen—like API 200—might clog fast, tear easily, and need frequent replacement. That’s wasteful, not efficient.
At the same time, going too coarse to save money can cost you more. If you use a loose mesh on high-value drilling mud, it’ll let fine cuttings pass through. That means your desanders and centrifuges have to work harder—and those are expensive systems to run.
The best approach is to treat shaker screens as part of a flexible strategy. When solids are heavy, start with coarser screens like API 60–80 and switch to finer ones like API 140 or 200 as the well deepens and formations tighten. This way, you reduce downtime, extend screen life, and maintain high separation efficiency without blowing your solids control budget.
Each shaker series has strict requirements for screen length, width, edge design, and mounting style. A screen might have the right mesh and material, but if the size doesn’t fit—it simply won’t work.
To make sourcing easier, we’ve put together a comparison chart listing screen sizes for the world’s leading shaker brands. Whether you’re running MI-Swaco, Derrick, NOV Brandt, Elgin, FSI, or Vortex, you’ll find the corresponding screen specs right here. This saves time and helps avoid mismatches.
(And yes—SMKST offers high-quality replacement screens that match all the specs below. More affordable, made in China. Click here to contact our team.)
MI-Swaco is one of the most widely used brands on-site. Its composite frame offers a larger effective screen area, lighter weight, and corrosion resistance—ideal for tough drilling conditions.
Model Dimensions (mm) Frame Type Compatible Equipment Weight (kg) Mongoose 585 × Composite / Steel Frame Mongoose Shaker / Cleaner Composite ~11.5 kgSteel ~13.5 kg
MD Series 622 × 655 Composite Frame MD-2 / MD-3 Shale Shaker ~7 kg ALS Series × Hook Strip (Flat) ALS 4×4 Shale Shaker ~7 kgDerrick’s pyramid screens increase effective area through a three-dimensional design—ideal for high-precision applications.
Model Dimensions (mm) Screen Type Compatible Equipment FLC500 Series 695 × Flat (PWP) / Pyramid (PMD) Flow Line Cleaner 500 (3 or 4-panel) FLC Series 697 × Flat (PWP) / Pyramid (PMD) Flow Line Cleaner (3 or 4-panel) Hyperpool 570 × Pyramid (PMD) Hyperpool Series Shakers / Cleaners Dual Pool 600 710 × 626 Pyramid (PMD) Dual Pool Series Shakers / CleanersThe VSM300 features a unique 3-deck layout (scalping / primary / fine), requiring different screen sizes for each layer.
Model Dimensions (mm) Frame Type Compatible Equipment Cobra / Venom 635 × Composite / Steel Frame Cobra, King Cobra, Mini Cobra, Venom, LCM-2D, LCM-3D VSM300 (Scalping) 685 × 940 Composite / Metal Frame VSM300 Shaker – Scalping Deck VSM300 (Primary) 685 × 890 Composite / Metal Frame VSM300 Shaker – Primary Deck VSM300 (Secondary) 685 × 203 Composite / Metal Frame VSM300 Shaker – Secondary (Fine Screening) DeckA practical and economical option, often used on land rigs. Also suitable for high-performance desanding systems.
Model Dimensions (mm) Frame Type Compatible Equipment Fluids System 29×42 737 × Composite Frame FSI Shakers / Cleaner SeriesKnown for its steel frame design, this screen suits cost-sensitive jobs. Composite versions are available on request.
Model Dimensions (mm) Frame Type Compatible Equipment Vortex Screen 610 × Steel Frame Vortex Shaker SeriesPopular in North America and the Middle East. Built tough and designed for quick change-outs.
Model Dimensions (mm) Frame Type Compatible Equipment KPT 28 715 × Steel / Composite Frame Elgin / Kemtron KPT 28 SeriesYou can just tell us the following information:
No problem—just send us a photo of the screen or a used sample, and we’ll match the right replacement for you fast.
When we talk about “shale shaker screen size,” it’s not just about mesh count or physical dimensions. It’s a multi-factor decision—combining shaker type, screen design, API standards, and real-world good conditions.
By understanding how screens work, choosing them, installing and maintaining them, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends, you can boost your solids control efficiency, extend screen life, and cut overall drilling costs.
From a practical standpoint, we always recommend that technical teams and procurement work closely with screen suppliers or equipment manufacturers. Share key info like the API number, expected cut point, and mud properties. That way, you get the best-fit screen configuration—faster, smarter, and more cost-effective.
shale shaker screen Applications
About shale shaker screen:
Shale shaker screen is one screen that material feeding out of the hopper onto the shale shaker screen.
Then the shale shaker screen is vibrating vigorously causing the material flowing over it. This shakes the finer material off of the larger material and allows it to pass through the mesh panel.
The larger particles continue to bounce off the end of the mesh panel at the rear of the screen.
Application in Linear Motion Shale Shaker:
Linear motion shale shaker absorbed advanced tech at home and abroad ,and integrated Shengjia own design. Shengjia complete series shale shaker can meet customers' variable demand. Clients feedback proved the advantages of this kind of shale shaker: high G-force, wide screen area, compressed structure, cost-effective, etc.
Want more information on Swaco Shaker Screen types? Feel free to contact us.
Application in Balanced elliptical shale shaker:
For treating the oil drilling fluids, the balanced elliptical motion shaker is 20%-30% bigger than linear motion shaker, discharging speed is 10%-20% faster; For resisting the "screen stuck", "screen paste" "horseshoe effect", the balanced elliptical motion shale shaker is much more effective.
Shale Shaker for drilling fluids solids control:
Shale shaker for solids control are devices that remove drill cuttings from the drilling fluid while circulating and drilling. There are many different designs and research into the best design is constantly ongoing since solids control is vital in keeping down costs associated with the drilling fluid. The basic design consists of large, flat sheets of wire mesh screens or sieves of various mesh sizes that shakes or vibrates the drill cuttings, commonly shale shaker, across and off of the screens as the drilling fluid flows through them and back into the drilling fluids processing system, often called a mud system. This separates the drill cuttings, often called solids, from the drilling fluid so that it can be recirculated back down the well bore.In oilfield industry, linear motion shale shaker are widely used for drilling mud solids control of oil gas well drilling for rig.
We’re saying goodbye to tradition and making solid-liquid separation easier! The new multi-deck solids control shale shaker through technical improvement is an innovation of the traditional drilling solids control solids control shale shaker. By increasing the power of the excitation motor, the modular screen design replaces the traditional one-piece screen design, and the air pressure tight screen device is added to replace it. The traditional wedge block is compressed; the volume and area of the screen box are increased; more functions and advantages are realized.
Structural composition of a new multi-deck solids control shale shaker
The new multi-deck solids control shale shaker is composed of six parts: high-power excitation motor system, modular screen, electric control system, airbag compression screen system, hydraulic lifting system, and screen box shock absorption system.
10 advantages of the new multi-stage solids control solids control shale shaker
1. Different from the use of traditional solids control shale shaker, one machine has multiple functions, which can effectively replace solids control shale shaker, de-sander and desilter, and realize three-level integrated treatment and separation.
2. The use of this equipment greatly saves the floor space of the solids control system. It combines the solids control shale shaker bin, the de-sand bin and the de-silt bin into one, which effectively reduces the difficulty of cleaning the grit bin and the de-sand bin, and solves the problem mud tanks.
3. The complete solids control system purchase link needs no slurry pump, no desander, desilter, or electric control cabinet.
4. There is little equipment management, so user maintenance costs have been greatly reduced, making process management simple and easy.
5. The use of this equipment can save 136,656 kilowatts of electricity each year, which is equivalent to saving 21.45 tons of diesel and reducing emissions.
6. Humanized design saves the difficulty of replacing traditional screens and other troubles, saving users 90% of the time of use.
7. Pressing one key to do angle adjustment with wide adjustment angle range of -2~5 degrees, saving 50% of the time and cost for users.
8. The screen has a modular structure with a small area and low cost.
9. The screen area is large, close to 10 square meters, and the processing capacity is large; the shaker box stroke is up to 2.5 meters. Compared with the traditional solids control shale shaker, the water content of the mud discharged is reduced to 50%, which reduces the processing cost of drilling waste management system.
10. Three-in-one integration solves the problem of large slag discharge area, and small space for cuttings collection, which greatly saves the input and management costs of users who do not land.
The emergence of the multi-deck solids control shale shaker is the result of continuous improvement and innovation of the drilling solids control technology. The multi-deck solids control shale shaker will change the layout and direction of the drilling solids control system. The new drilling solids control system will also become the future trend of industrial development.
A Shale shaker screen refers to the type of mechanical screen. It can separate solids and take them out from drilling fluid such as mud. Most shale shaker screens have stainless steel, composite, or polyurethane frame. The shale shaker has a moving or vibrating screen that removes cuttings from the mud for easy disposal. The vibrating sieve or screen can strain the cutting out of the mud. So, it plays a vital role before pumping the mud back into the borehole.
Shale shakers have become the easiest and most commonly used solids removal equipment. It can reduce costs during drilling applications. It comes in handy when you use a liquid as a drilling fluid. Circulate rate, drilling fluid properties, and shaker design control the screen selection. Unfortunately, when you use shale shakers incorrectly, the performance of the solid removal equipment falls down. Hence, you should choose the best shale shakers and use them properly. Read ahead to know more.
While shale shaker has high significance, most people often overlook this piece of equipment. It has high importance on a drilling rig. The shale shaker screen acts as the first line of defense against major solids control equipment and drill cuttings. A Shale shaker can ensure solids control. Therefore, it can ensure the following benefits:
Increased drilling
Lower disposal costs
Reduced mud costs
Enhanced bit life
To control the mud and chip, you have to choose the best shale shaker screen. It is a prominent factor in the enhanced efficiency of the equipment. The equipment you choose must suit the specific needs of your project. It includes selecting the accurate vibrating screen needed according to the drill cutting’s type and the characteristics of the mud. Here are some of the factors you should check:
Depending on the type of project, you need to choose the shale shaker screen. Below given are the types of shale shaker screens:
It is the equipment incorporating the latest shaker technology. It is the shaker used commonly for solid control in the gas and oil drilling industries. The linear motion using a pair of shafts may provide enhanced cutting conveyance. The shafts rotating in the opposite directions can also ensure improved liquid retention due to uphill slope operation.
The shale shakers with balanced elliptical motion may prove effective where you expect a high and heavy presence of solids while drilling top-hole sections. This type of shale shaker produces an unbalanced force due to a difference in power between the two vibrating motors. This type of shale shaker can remove solids effectively. It can also aid in eliminating larger particles present in the drilling fluids. It reduces screen consumption due to the relatively moderate vibration strength of this type of shale shaker.
This type of shale shaker has a single vibrator shaft. You can locate it at the shaker tray’s center of mass. The motors have concentric shaft has counterweights fitted to them that provides a circular motion. The circular motion can help transport solids that can lower the drilling fluid loss. This type of shale shaker can operate as stacked units.
Like finding the perfect shale shaker screen, you should also ensure proper use of it. Maintaining the shale shaker screen has high significance as selecting the screen itself. While using it for normal drilling, you have to ensure the fluid flows properly through the screen tube. It needs to flow at a distance of 25% to 50% from the furthest outgoing line.
It is vital to make the shaker horizontal for a more consistent position. This position across the screen ensures the selection of the correct size grid. Raising or jacking up the shaker plate can lead to the solid spending increased amount of time close to the shaker screen’s flow line. It can reduce the vibrating screen’s life.
While using the shaker, never puncture the mesh that can happen when cleaning the screen. Puncturing the mesh can reduce the screen’s effectiveness. Using shaker screens without a top grid also reduces the effectiveness. Hence, you have to replace it with a vibrating screen having holes in it. Maintaining the shale shaker can improve the efficiency and efficiency of the shale shaker screens.
While using shale shaker screens, you need to ensure their efficiency. Hence, it requires replacing. Replacing the shale shaker screen can involve less cost compared to replacing the mud system or rebuilding the directional tool and mud pump. It is vital to ensure the other components such as the rubber shaker bypass and shaker work well. It is because the opening of the bypass during the drilling can result in the shale entering the mud tank present below. It results in zero efficiencies. While drilling, shale can end up in the feed pump’s screen box. It leads to the reduction of the volume centrifuge volume. Checking the screen box can help you understand the need for the shale shaker screen replacement. The higher efficiency of the shale shaker screen can result in high success rates of the centrifuge.
Do you know that a foot of good drilling can generate around 1.2 barrels of mud? This waste drilling mud can impact the overall cost and effectiveness of the drilling activities. Many drilling companies can feel the negative impact of the waste mud. The companies need to focus on waste control and the environmental hazards linked to it while drilling. Hence, such companies look for solids control equipment to lower the cost while increasing effectiveness. Using the best shale shakers can come to the rescue in such cases. Many modern drill rigs have included shale shakers in the processing of drilling fluid to increase efficiency and throughput.
While shale shakers have overwhelming use in the production and exploration of petroleum products, they can also prove significant in other industries. So, shale shakers can prove important in any industry that requires the removal of solids. The mining industry uses screening devices such as shale shakers. The features such as fine screening and linear vibration capabilities can make shale shakers desirable to the precious metal and coal mining companies. The process industry can also make use of the shake shaker equipment for a variety of applications requiring screening and shakers. Clients also use it in the process flow of paper, chemicals, powder, sand, plastic, and other significant plants.
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If you require access to the best shale shakers, you need to consult the experts. Solid Control World has become a popular name in helping businesses decide on the best drilling equipment required for the project. The expert team can also aid in providing suggestions to make critical business decisions. The choice of best options like shale shakers can help your business make risk-free choices with confidence. It can ensure the success of your project within the suggested deadline and on budget. The team offers services in three main methods:
The expert team will consult with you to decide on the best drilling equipment needed for the project. It is the most crucial decision your business can make for the best results. The experts can provide the confidence to help you make risk-free choices for project success. The consultation offered before the start of the project can help you decide on the following:
The best equipment suited for your specific project
The cost-effective choice of equipment ensures the success of the process
Apart from these, the team can also provide high-quality price proposals. The client-specific competitive price proposal will help in the guaranteed success of the process.
The expert team at Solid Control World can offer free other services after deciding on the best equipment needed for the project. The range of services offered will aid in the installation, usage, and maintenance of the equipment selected. The current project services include:
Detailed user assistance documentation by the expert team for understanding every equipment piece. It will help the clients use them correctly for enhanced safety and efficiency.
Professionals compile customer-specific procedures to make it easier for clients to install and run the equipment provided as required.
Assign personal customer liaison contact for every client to help them receive, install, and use the equipment provided by the team.
Solid Control World can also provide after-sales services to clients. It will help the clients maintain the equipment accessed to enhance efficiency. This step will help you complete the project. The equipment accessed from the team will receive the following:
One-year guarantee and free service while commissioning and training for the first time.
24×7 free technical support service provided over the . Online support using the website or .
Ten-year validity for spare parts and maintenance for the listed equipment.
Solid Control World always provides clients with the best services to ensure you never face any problems. The technical support provided can overcome any issue with ease. You get prompt solutions based on the defect report or technical support request.
Are you interested in learning more about Derrick DP 600/626 Series Screen? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!