Diamond core drilling projects often operate in remote areas where access to stable electrical power is limited and operating conditions can change rapidly. For these challenging environments, GN Solids Control has delivered three packages of hydraulic drive mini centrifuge units designed to provide reliable solids separation with maximum operational flexibility.
Unlike conventional electrically driven centrifuges, these units are powered through a diesel-driven hydraulic power system. The diesel power pack supplies hydraulic oil to a hydraulic motor, which then directly drives the decanter centrifuge. This drive configuration significantly reduces dependency on electrical infrastructure and makes the system especially suitable for off-grid drilling locations.
One of the main advantages of hydraulic drive technology is its ability to deliver high torque at low and variable speeds. In diamond core drilling, drilling fluid properties and solids loading can fluctuate as drilling progresses through different formations. The hydraulic motor responds smoothly to these changes, maintaining stable centrifuge operation and protecting mechanical components from overload or shock.
The mini centrifuge units are designed with portability and ease of deployment in mind. Their compact structure allows them to be transported alongside drilling rigs and quickly installed at site with minimal civil preparation. This is particularly important for exploration drilling projects that require frequent relocation as new boreholes are drilled.
Operational control is another area where hydraulic drive systems offer clear advantages. Centrifuge speed and differential torque can be adjusted by regulating hydraulic flow and pressure, allowing operators to fine-tune separation performance without complex electrical controls. This straightforward control method simplifies training requirements and reduces the risk of operational errors in the field.
From an efficiency standpoint, the hydraulic drive mini centrifuge plays a vital role in improving overall drilling fluid management. By removing fine solids from the drilling fluid, the system helps maintain consistent fluid properties, reduce wear on drilling tools, and extend the service life of downstream equipment. Recovered drilling fluid can be reused, reducing both water consumption and waste disposal volumes.
Durability is a key design consideration for GN’s hydraulic drive centrifuge units. All major wear components are manufactured from abrasion-resistant materials, ensuring long service life even when handling fine, abrasive solids commonly generated during diamond core drilling. The robust mechanical and hydraulic structure also minimizes routine maintenance and supports continuous operation in harsh field conditions.
Supplying three independent centrifuge packages gives the drilling contractor greater operational flexibility. The units can be deployed individually or in parallel depending on project scale, drilling depth, or fluid volume, providing a scalable solution that adapts to different project requirements.
Through this project, GN Solids Control once again demonstrates its expertise in developing application-specific solids control solutions. By combining diesel-powered hydraulic systems with compact decanter centrifuges, GN delivers reliable, flexible, and field-proven equipment that supports efficient diamond core drilling operations worldwide.
GN Solids Control – Practical hydraulic drive centrifuge solutions built for remote drilling environments.