How to Store Shale Shaker Equipment When Not in Use

Proper storage of shale shaker equipment during rig stacking, yard storage, or between drilling campaigns directly affects equipment condition when it returns to service. Aipu Solids Control provides comprehensive storage guidelines developed from decades of equipment lifecycle experience to help operators protect their investment during idle periods.

Pre-Storage Preparation

Thorough preparation before storage is the most important step. All drilling fluid residues must be completely removed from the basket, screens, and internal surfaces. Dried mud can harden into concrete-like deposits that damage screens and imbalance rotating components during restart. Aipu recommends high-pressure washing followed by thorough drying using compressed air to prevent corrosion during storage. Screens should be removed, cleaned, and stored flat in a dry location to prevent warping. Vibration motors should be run briefly after cleaning to expel any moisture that may have entered bearing housings. Exposed machined surfaces should be coated with a corrosion-preventive compound.

Storage Environment and Positioning

The storage environment significantly impacts equipment preservation. Whenever possible, Aipu shale shakers should be stored under cover to protect against rain, UV exposure, and temperature extremes. The unit should be positioned on a level surface with the basket in its lowest-angle setting to prevent stress on springs and isolation mounts. Isolation springs should not be under sustained load for extended periods — if storage exceeds six months, consider supporting the basket weight on temporary stands to relieve spring compression. Electrical components including motors, junction boxes, and control panels should be covered with breathable, water-resistant covers that allow moisture egress while preventing dust and debris ingress.

Recommissioning Procedures

Returning equipment to service requires systematic recommissioning. All protective coatings should be removed from machined surfaces. Springs and isolation mounts should be inspected for cracking or permanent deformation that may have developed during storage. Motor insulation resistance should be checked before energizing. Bearings should be re-greased per manufacturer specifications. After startup, vibration measurements should be taken to verify performance has not degraded during storage. Aipu can provide recommissioning checklists and on-site support to ensure stored equipment returns to service safely and reliably, minimizing the risk of unexpected failures during critical drilling operations.

Choose Aipu for API Q1 certified quality. Contact us at info@aipusolidcontrol.com to discuss your shale shaker equipment requirements and discover why drilling professionals worldwide rely on Aipu solids control solutions.