Because the mud would be too thick for the cleaner to deal with, the first step in utilizing one is to put it through a hydrocyclone. A hydrocyclone is a device that employs force to propel cleansed mud through the cyclone’s top segment while thicker particles flow through the bottom section. Whatever passes through the bottom part is then collected by the mud cleaner.

While a hydrocyclone can help to isolate mud to some extent, the mud cleaner is responsible for further purification. The cleaner is essentially a mesh with fine holes designed to allow tiny particles to pass through. Anything comparatively tiny enough to pass through the holes then collides with and mixes with the purified mud expelled by the hydrocyclone.

Larger particles are addressed differently based on the user’s requirements. The mesh of the mud cleaner is designed to allow particles smaller than barite to get through, therefore barite may be beneficial in some drilling techniques. If the user does not require barite, or if other particles cannot be utilized, they are simply thrown. Barite can be used to weigh down drilling solutions, and the weight can be advantageous in creating a fluid that is stronger and better suited for drilling applications involving thick liquids or solids.

Whatever the purpose of the barite and bigger particles, they are typically removed from the drill and purification system after the mud cleaner separates the particles. This is because the huge particles may cause the liquid to become excessively thick, preventing it from passing through the machine. Thinning the liquid allows the drill to continue drilling more easily.