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Energy & Industrial DrillingWater

My Hydrocyclones Keep Plugging while Drilling. Help!

By Brock Yordy
October 19, 2023

In this episode, Frank asks about the dreaded plugged hydrocyclone. Host and drilling expert talks about solutions to roping and plugging when using hydrocyclones as part of a drilling program. It’s Ask Brock 233. 

“Let’s pull out the whiteboard for a minute,” Yordy says. “Understand that our solids control unit needs to be able to separate everything that is larger than 74 microns with a scalping screen — or we need to be able to have them settle out of the settling pit.” Otherwise, he adds, someone grabs a Phillips and takes the situation into their own hands when cones inevitably plug. 

“So that’s the first thing we need to think about.” 

He also recommends the book “Drilling Fluids Processing” by the ASME Shale Shaker Committee. 

Click the video to hear more.

Have a Question for Brock?

Send an email to questions@askbrock.com.

KEYWORDS: drilling fluids management mud rotary drilling rotary drilling training and education water well drilling

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Brock yordy march 2026

Brock Yordy, Director of Industry Engagement for The Driller, is a third-generation driller and globally recognized subject matter expert who has written for The Driller since 2013. Driven by a passion for industry education and digital media, he anchors The Driller Newscast and hosts weekly podcasts for the trade. His technical authority is backed by decades of extreme fieldwork worldwide for organizations like Halliburton, SUEZ, and the U.S. Government. Dedicated to ensuring clean water for all and advancing equitable geothermal heating and cooling, Brock actively collaborates with states nationwide through The Developed Well Group and the Geothermal Drillers Association to shape policy, safety, and workforce training.
 

email: brock@thedriller.com | office: (269) 348-5156

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