Importance

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Abstract

A gas-liquid-solids separation system for use with a drilling device includes a surge tank for holding drilling efflux comprising gas, liquid and solids, and adapted for mounting on a drilling device in a position for having a drill shaft extending therethrough. A stuffing box attached to a back side of the surge tank means and configured for enabling passage of the drill shaft therethrough prevents the drilling efflux from escaping the surge tank. A flange attached to the front side of the surge tank and aligned with the stuffing box for allowing passage of the drill shaft therethrough provides a seal between the surge tank and a borehole casing to enable the drilling efflux to flow into the surge tank means. An agitator disposed within the surge tank maintains suspension of the solids within the liquid, and a gas cyclone in fluid communication with the surge tank withdraws gas from the surge tank and separates any entrained liquid therefrom. The liquid and solids suspended therein are transferred to a slurry cyclone for separation and thereafter the liquid is stored in a tank for subsequent reuse as a cutting fluid.

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First Claim