Published on: Mar 21,
Shengjia are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.
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
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Swaco Mongoose Pyramid Screen. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
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.
Welcome to the ultimate guide for choosing the best shaker screen for the oil and gas industry. Whether you are drilling for oil or natural gas, having the right shaker screen can make all the difference in ensuring efficient and effective solids control. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to make the best decision for your specific needs.
With a vast array of options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right shaker screen. That’s why we’re here to help. We will delve into the different types of screens, their mesh sizes, and the materials they are made of, along with their pros and cons. We will also discuss important factors to consider, such as flow capacity, screen longevity, and ease of maintenance.
Our guide is designed to provide you with the knowledge and insights you need to make an informed decision. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of which shaker screen is best suited for your drilling operations, ensuring optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.
So, let’s get started on your journey to finding the ultimate shaker screen for your oil and gas industry needs!
Choosing the right shaker screen is crucial for the success of your drilling operations. A shaker screen is an essential component of the shale shaker, which is responsible for separating solids from drilling fluid. Solids control is vital in the oil and gas industry as it helps maintain drilling fluid properties, prevents equipment damage, and ensures the safety of personnel.
The right shaker screen can improve solids control efficiency, reduce waste disposal costs, and minimize downtime. It can also enhance the overall drilling process by improving drilling fluid quality, reducing wear and tear on other equipment, and increasing drilling productivity. Therefore, investing time and effort into selecting the best shaker screen is a wise decision.
When choosing a shaker screen, several factors should be taken into consideration to ensure optimal performance. One crucial factor is the screen’s mesh size, which refers to the number of openings per linear inch. Mesh sizes typically range from 20 to 325, with lower numbers representing coarser screens and higher numbers indicating finer screens.
Another important consideration is the material used to construct the screen. Common materials include stainless steel, composite, and polyurethane. Stainless steel screens are durable and resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for harsh drilling conditions. Composite screens offer a balance between durability and cost-effectiveness, while polyurethane screens are known for their flexibility and longer lifespan.
Flow capacity is another critical factor to consider. The screen’s flow capacity determines how efficiently it can process drilling fluid and separate solids. It is essential to choose a shaker screen with adequate flow capacity to prevent bottlenecks and maintain optimal drilling operations.
There are different types of shaker screens available in the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common types include flat screens, pyramid screens, and hook strip screens.
Flat screens, also known as conventional screens, are the most basic type of shaker screen. They have a simple flat surface and are suitable for general-purpose applications. Flat screens are easy to install and maintain, but they may have limited solids control efficiency compared to other types.
Pyramid screens, on the other hand, have a pyramid-shaped surface with larger openings at the top and smaller openings at the bottom. This design allows for improved solids control efficiency and increased flow capacity. However, pyramid screens can be more expensive than flat screens and may require more frequent replacement.
Hook strip screens are another popular option, characterized by a hook-shaped strip that holds the screen in place. These screens are known for their easy installation and removal, making maintenance and replacement quick and hassle-free. However, hook strip screens may have lower flow capacity compared to other types and may not be suitable for high-volume drilling operations.
Mesh size plays a crucial role in determining the performance of a shaker screen. The choice of mesh size depends on the desired cut point, which refers to the size of the particles that the screen can effectively separate.
Finer mesh sizes, such as 200 or 325, are suitable for removing smaller particles, while coarser mesh sizes, such as 20 or 40, are better at removing larger particles. It is important to select the appropriate mesh size based on the expected particle size distribution in the drilling fluid.
Using the wrong mesh size can result in poor solids control efficiency, increased screen wear, and reduced flow capacity. It is recommended to perform regular particle size analysis to determine the optimal mesh size for your specific drilling conditions.
Before selecting a shaker screen, it is advisable to test and evaluate different options to determine their suitability for your drilling operations. Testing can be done in a laboratory or on-site using a test rig. The test rig simulates the actual drilling conditions and allows for accurate assessment of the screen’s performance.
During testing, parameters such as screen conductance, cut point, and solids removal efficiency are measured and analyzed. Conductance refers to the ability of the screen to allow drilling fluid to flow through it, while cut point indicates the particle size at which the screen can effectively separate solids. Solids removal efficiency measures the screen’s ability to remove solids from the drilling fluid.
By conducting thorough testing and evaluation, you can make an informed decision and select the shaker screen that best meets your specific requirements.
Proper maintenance and cleaning are essential for extending the lifespan of your shaker screens and ensuring consistent performance. Regular inspection of the screens is necessary to identify any signs of wear or damage. If a screen is found to be damaged or worn out, it should be replaced promptly to prevent further deterioration.
Cleaning the screens after each use is also crucial to remove any solids or debris that may have accumulated. This can be done using a pressure washer or by soaking the screens in a cleaning solution. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the screen.
Additionally, proper storage of the screens when not in use is important to prevent deformation or damage. Screens should be stored in a clean and dry environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Cost is an important factor to consider when selecting a shaker screen. The initial purchase cost, as well as the maintenance and replacement costs, should be taken into account. While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, it is important to balance cost with performance and durability.
Cheaper screens may have a shorter lifespan and require more frequent replacement, resulting in higher long-term costs. On the other hand, investing in higher-quality screens may initially be more expensive but can save money in the long run by reducing downtime and replacement frequency.
It is advisable to consult with suppliers and manufacturers to obtain cost estimates and compare the total cost of ownership for different screen options. Taking into consideration factors such as screen lifespan, maintenance requirements, and solids control efficiency will help you make an informed decision based on both performance and cost-effectiveness.
The company is the world’s best Scomi Prima 3G/4G/5G Screen supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.