Offshore installation of shale shaker equipment requires careful planning and execution to address the unique challenges of the marine environment. Aipu Solids Control provides comprehensive guidance for installing Hunter series shakers on offshore drilling rigs, drawing on extensive experience supplying equipment for offshore operations worldwide.
Pre-installation planning is the critical first step that determines installation success. Offshore rigs have limited space, restricted access routes, and strict weight limitations that must be considered before equipment arrives. Aipu provides detailed dimensional drawings, weight specifications, lifting point information, and utility requirements for all Hunter series models to support rig integration planning. Key planning considerations include the installation location relative to the mud return line, access for screen changes and maintenance, connection to rig power supply with appropriate voltage and frequency, integration with the rig’s hazardous area classification scheme, and lifting arrangements for bringing equipment aboard. Aipu Hunter series shakers, with premium Ital-Vibras, Martin, and Oli motors operating at 6.0G to 7.5G, are designed for offshore service with appropriate corrosion protection and certification packages.
The physical installation sequence begins with positioning the shaker at its designated location and securing it to the deck structure. Offshore shakers must be adequately secured to prevent movement in all sea states, using bolted connections to structural deck members or approved mounting systems. Aipu provides mounting foot details and bolt patterns for all models. Leveling the shaker is essential—proper leveling ensures even flow distribution across screens and balanced vibration. Use precision level instruments and shim packs as needed to achieve level condition in all directions before final bolting. Connect the shaker to the rig mud system including the feed line from the flow line or possum belly, the underflow return to the active system, and the cuttings discharge chute to the cuttings handling system.
Electrical installation requires qualified personnel familiar with offshore electrical standards and hazardous area requirements. Connect motor power cables through appropriate explosion-proof fittings and verify proper rotation direction for all motors—incorrect rotation produces poor vibration and rapid screen or motor damage. All electrical connections must meet the rig’s hazardous area certification requirements for the installation zone. Test motor operation individually and in pairs, verifying that vibration characteristics match specifications. Aipu provides electrical schematics, motor specifications, and installation guidance for all Hunter series configurations.
Post-installation commissioning includes operational testing with water or drilling fluid to verify that flow distribution is even across the screen width, vibration is balanced across all monitoring points, screen tension and retention are correct, and all safety systems are functional. Commissioning checklists provided by Aipu guide this process systematically. Document all installation details, including exact location, utility connections, and as-built conditions, for future reference. Aipu’s manufacturing at our 50,000 square meter Xi’an facility under API Q1 certified quality management ensures that equipment arrives offshore fully tested and ready for commissioning. With over 15 years of experience and equipment operating in more than 30 countries, Aipu provides the installation support and equipment quality that offshore operations demand.
Partner with Aipu for certified quality. Contact us at info@aipusolidcontrol.com to discuss your requirements and discover the Aipu difference in API Q1 certified solids control equipment.
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