Published on: Mar 21,
Shengjia Product Page
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.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Derrick Hyperpool PMD Screen.
(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.
Shaker screen usable life is a really comprehensive question but often asked by clients. There are so many different issues affect its life. Including screen itself quality, operator professional level, mud condition or working condition, shaker condition, handling way, cleaning and maintenance on screen, storage condition, and so on. These are factors from buyer or user. As per present information we get the screen life of different models or brands is from 20 hours to 22 days.
This data including many different pattern of screen, different API size screen, different working condition. How should we consider this ask reasonably? Make records and test regularly during well drilling. Such as drilling condition, mud property, filtration result, screen life, and so on. Compare screens last differently under same condition then find out the better screen. If we select screens improperly even they last over 30 days that makes no sense. We have some feedback from our users under a certain condition with their satisfaction. Please check it below
Hole size 12 1/4” while depth to ft
Mud weight: 10.9lbs
Formation: shale/sand
Hours run: about 160 hours
Screen failure: due to normal wear to top layer
Result: Satisfactory on screen life
Hole size: 8 1/2” while depth to m
Mud density: 1.08Sg
Mud system: WSM&Gel Sweep
Duration: Aug.18- Aug.20
Shaker degree: +3°
Result: Excellent solids throughput, the conveyance was excellent, minimum fluid loss, no wear over served on screens after TD section achieved
There are also oral feedback from other users, but without sufficient reference information. Please find our suggestions or recommendations on enhancing screen life during oil drilling:
Depending on screen types. For example, if the screen is framed and without rubber strip back side nor rubber sealing on sides it can be stored on shelf 2-3 years. But the storage condition is away from extreme weather and moisture. Why? Strictly speaking, shelf life affects shaker screen life. We know screen panels including frame and S.S screen cloth. The frame is steel frame (coated) or composite frame. There are elements will age and this affects screen life & performance. For screens fit with rubber strip or sealing rubber, the suggest shelf life is no longer than 12 month. As we know, the rubber material is easy to age even under common storage conditions. For all screens, when we keep them in a warehouse please consider below suggestions
How do we repair it? Why do we repair it? We use plugs to cover the broken area on screen panel. Usually the plug is slightly larger than hole of grids or broken area to make it pinned tightly. We repair screens consider 3 main reasons. One is repairing avoid further larger broken, two is repairing avoid mud loss, the other is repairing helps save cost to replace screen with little worn.
We can’t repair all of screens. Presently, at Aipu Solids Control we provide repair plugs for flat screens made by us and for some typical famous brand shaker screen. Such as Cobra series screen, PWP48x30, PWP500, Mongoose series and so on. Furthermore, if we have made screens for you, they can be repaired with plugs produced by us, no matter it is famous brand or not. To check if your screens are repairable please tell us the shape of punched panel on frame. Including shape, sides, thickness of the sheet. Moreover, we need to confirm is it necessary to repair a screen panel. According to the worn area, or broken ratio. We suggest repairing screen broken area is no more than 25%.
Have you been clear about factors affecting shaker screen usable life? Please contact us freely if you have further concern.
Are you interested in learning more about Vortex Shaker Screen? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!