Stainless Steel Screw Conveyor for Transport of Drill Cuttings

Stainless steel screw conveyor for transport of drill cuttings manufactured for use on an offshore drilling rig.

An international offshore operator faced a critical challenge in handling drill cuttings. The existing conveying system was not sufficiently resistant to the aggressive environment, which combines moisture, salt from the sea, chemicals, and high abrasiveness from drill cuttings.

The customer required a robust, corrosion-resistant, and reliable screw conveyor that could ensure stable conveying of drill cuttings – even under continuous load and varying operating conditions in the drilling process.

BEMA’s Solution

BEMA developed and delivered a custom-designed screw conveyor in dimension Ø500 x 9,850 mm, optimized specifically for the transport of drill cuttings in the offshore sector.

Key Elements of the Solution

• Stainless steel screw trough and housing (1.4401 / AISI-316)
  Construction in acid-resistant stainless steel provides maximum corrosion resistance and long service life in harsh offshore environments
• Screw rotor with HARDOX 400 flights
  The wear-resistant screw rotor ensures high resistance to abrasive material and significantly reduces wear. Read about BEMA’s screw flights here.
• Three inlet hoppers with grates and adjustable guide plates
  Provides flexible material feeding and enables precise control of the material inlet – the guide plates can be manually adjusted as needed
• Flexible intermediate bearings
  Designed for long service life and stable operation – even under varying loads
• Gear motor and bearings painted according to NORSOK M-501
  Meets the specific surface treatment requirements of the Norwegian offshore industry and provides additional corrosion protection

Results for the Customer

Significantly improved operational reliability
The conveyor handles drill cuttings without blockages or loss of capacity

Extended service life in aggressive environments
The stainless steel housing in 1.4401 / AISI-316 and NORSOK-coated components provide a solution that lasts – even offshore

Reduced maintenance
The screw flights in HARDOX material and the flexible intermediate bearings minimize wear and service requirements. Read about BEMA’s screw rotors here.

Stable and controlled material flow
The three inlet hoppers and adjustable guide plates provide optimal control of material feeding.

Why Did the Customer Choose BEMA?

• Proven experience with screw conveyors for the offshore industry
• Ability to deliver custom-designed screw conveyors and stainless steel solutions
• Focus on operational reliability, service life, and serviceability
• Close technical collaboration throughout the entire project

Conclusion

This stainless steel screw conveyor demonstrates BEMA’s ability to deliver high-performance and long-lasting solutions for demanding offshore environments. When drill cuttings must be handled safely and efficiently – BEMA delivers a solution that lasts.

FAQ – Stainless Steel Screw Conveyor for Transport of Drill Cuttings

What is a screw conveyor used for in industrial processes?

A screw conveyor is used for safe and efficient transport of bulk materials such as drill cuttings, granulates, sludge, and powders. It is used in industries such as offshore, manufacturing, waste handling, and wastewater treatment, where stable and controlled material movement is essential for operation.

Why choose a stainless steel screw conveyor for drill cuttings?

Stainless and acid-resistant steel such as 1.4401 / AISI-316 provides maximum corrosion resistance in harsh offshore environments with moisture, salt, and chemicals. This ensures long service life, high operational reliability, and minimal maintenance – even when handling abrasive drill cuttings.

How does a screw conveyor improve operational economy offshore?

A robust screw conveyor reduces the risk of blockages and capacity loss, resulting in more stable operation. Wear-resistant components such as HARDOX flights and flexible intermediate bearings reduce service requirements and extend service life, ultimately lowering operating costs.

Can a screw conveyor be adapted to specific offshore requirements?

Yes, screw conveyors can be custom-designed for both material type and environment. Adaptations may include dimensions, material selection, inlet hoppers, guide plates, intermediate bearings, and surface treatments such as NORSOK M-501, which meets offshore industry requirements.