Apparatus for separating gas and solids from a liquid and drilling system comprising such an apparatus.

摘要

Apparatus (30) for separating gas and solids from a liquid, particularly gas and drill cuttings from drilling fluid in a closed loop fluid circulation system, comprises two compartments (31 and 32) separated by a wall (36) through which liquid can pass, means such as plates (38) being provided to filter out fine solids. The tops of the compartments are in gas communication through aperture (35), and the level of liquid in the compartments is maintained within a predetermined range by means of a supply line (14), an overflow (15) and valves (33 and 34). Liquid to be cleared enters compartment (32) by means of an inlet (13) and passes over baffles (39, 40 and 41) so that heavy solids are settled out. Partially cleaned fluid passes up over plates (38) where fine solids are removed, and into compartment (31) whence it is recirculated through an outlet (18). Solids are collected and discharged by a screw (43) through an outlet (45). Gas at the top of the compartments is exhausted through a pipe (16). A centrifugal separator for fine solids may be used in place of plates (38) and the two compartments may be connected by a wire mesh. The invention is particularly applicable in the drilling of horizontal boreholes in underground mines, to remove methane in advance of mining.