Apparatus including ultrasonic transducers for minimising the size of particles carried in a fluid medium

摘要

An improved ultrasonic processor is described for use in the offshore environment to minimise the size of drill cuttings. The processor comprises an outer transducer chamber which encloses an ultrasonic generating unit located between a top and bottom cap. The generating unit has internal and external cylindrical casings which form an annular cavity which is connected to both the inlet and outlet. A helical steel ribbon is located in the cavity and forms a path longer than its direct length from the inlet to the outlet for a fluid carrying drill cuttings. A plurality of sets of ultrasonic transducers are disposed around the processor may extend the length of the processor. The transducers are actuatable to generate acoustic energy in the cavity. The helical path increases the residence exposure time of the fluid with cuttings travelling through the processor, thus allowing the break up and de-agglomeration of the drill cuttings. Embodiments of the invention are described.