FAQ
Related to Cubility
The company was incorporated in 2005 by the founders, Jan Kristian Vasshus and Trond Melhus.
Related to MudCube
The first commercial MudCube system was delivered in 2012. A set of three MudCubes was installed as the primary solids control system on the offshore drilling rig Maersk Giant, a jack-up rig operating in the North Sea for Maersk Drilling. After the rig was sold to Lotos and renamed Petro Giant, the MudCubes continued to operate and remain in active use onboard today.
The second generation MudCube, also known as the Model X, was first shown to the market at the ONS event in 2018. The first commercial delivery of this new model was done to a customer in Russia in early 2019.
The semi-submersible rig, Scarabeo 5, was equipped with a MudCube system until it was decommissioned as a drilling unit. Throughout its operation, the MudCube’s performance was not negatively impacted by the rig’s movements, and no downtime was reported due to the MudCubes. However, we did encounter some challenges with the rig’s poorly designed mud return system, which caused mud to flow back into the MudCubes during heavy weather, creating operational issues. This problem can be easily resolved with a properly designed mud return system, ensuring smooth operation even in adverse conditions.
We acknowledge that in the past, the maintenance requirements for the MudCube were higher compared to a traditional shaker. However, with over 12 years of operational experience incorporated into the latest models, the MudCube is now just as easy and cost-efficient to maintain and operate as a shaker. Continuous improvements have streamlined the process, making the MudCube a highly competitive option both in terms of performance and upkeep.
We acknowledge that in the past, the maintenance requirements for the MudCube were higher compared to a traditional shaker. However, with over 12 years of operational experience incorporated into the latest models, the MudCube is now just as easy and cost-efficient to maintain and operate as a shaker. Continuous improvements have streamlined the process, making the MudCube a highly competitive option both in terms of performance and upkeep.
The shaker may have several screens/panels while the MudCube only have one filterbelt. So normally a filterbelt will be more expensive than a shaker screen. However, taking into consideration that the shaker needs several panels the cost difference may turn to opposite way. In general we normally would assume that the filterbelt cost for running MudCubes will be around the same level as the screen costs for running shakers.
The filterbelts follow the API-designations in the same way as for shaker screens. Filterbelts are available in all sizes from API-10 up to API-400. Other sizes are available on request.
Yes, all CubeBelts are tested according to the API RP13C standard and are marked with both D-100 cut-point and the Conductance value.
In a traditional shaker, high G-forces (6-12 G) are necessary to move the cuttings forward on the screen and drop them in front of the unit. However, these high G-forces inevitably cause the cuttings to grind during the liquid/solids separation process, generating fines. Some of these fines are small enough to pass through the screen, thereby contaminating the filtered mud with additional low gravity solids (LGS). In contrast, the MudCube does not rely on G-forces to move the cuttings forward; instead, this is handled automatically by the rotating belt. As a result, no grinding of solids occurs on top of the filter belt, preventing extra fines from entering the filtered mud. Therefore, the underflow of a MudCube will consistently have fewer LGS compared to a shaker equipped with the same API screen.
The MudCube is designed as a closed unit that operates under slight negative pressure, created by its vacuum system. This design ensures that no gases or vapors can escape during operation, offering a significant advantage for operators, particularly when working in confined spaces such as those commonly found on offshore installations and some arctic rigs. This feature enhances safety and creates a cleaner work environment, making it especially beneficial in areas where containment of hazardous substances is critical.
The MudCube is specifically designed to operate with all covers closed, and all necessary operator interventions are planned and facilitated with this in mind. While it is possible to enclose a traditional shaker with ventilation hoods to contain fumes and gases, these units were not originally designed for such enclosed operation. This makes operator interventions more challenging and significantly reduces visibility, making it difficult to monitor the separation process. In contrast, the MudCube’s design prioritizes both containment and ease of operation, ensuring a safer and more efficient workflow.
The MudCube is specifically designed to operate with all covers closed, and all necessary operator interventions are planned and facilitated with this in mind. While it is possible to enclose a traditional shaker with ventilation hoods to contain fumes and gases, these units were not originally designed for such enclosed operation. This makes operator interventions more challenging and significantly reduces visibility, making it difficult to monitor the separation process. In contrast, the MudCube’s design prioritizes both containment and ease of operation, ensuring a safer and more efficient workflow.
With its low G-force vibrations the MudCube have no structural vibrations and very low noise level compared to a traditional shale shaker. In especially sensitive areas the MudCube may turn out to be the only real option for proper solids control.
There is no difference in the MudCubes ability to process water based mud (WBM) compared to oil based mud (OBM) – it follows the same physical laws.
First and foremost, the primary objective of any serious solids control unit is to produce the driest cuttings possible while maintaining the drilling fluid properties within designated limits, maximizing fluid reclamation. We are proud to say that no other solids control unit outperforms the MudCube in producing dry cuttings. However, it has become clear that the systems designed to handle cuttings after they exit the solids control equipment are, in some cases, not optimized for managing dry cuttings—particularly in offshore operations. If this becomes an issue where MudCubes are installed, it can be easily addressed by running the units with a finer belt, producing wetter cuttings, or by bleeding in liquid to lubricate the transport system. That said, perhaps it’s time to address the root cause and upgrade the transport system to handle dry cuttings effectively?
When the load on a MudCube increases, you can simply adjust the speed of the belt to handle the increased volume. This achieves a similar effect to tilting a shaker in traditional systems, as it allows the MudCube to efficiently process higher loads without compromising performance. This feature provides precise control and adaptability, ensuring optimal solids separation even under varying conditions.
‘- Less mud losses
– Less waste
– Improved mud quality
– All harmful gasses and vapours are contained
– The noise level is moderate
– There are no structural vibrations
The integrated camera in the MudCube offers the shaker-hand (or the driller) full visibility of the solids separation process with all covers closed – from the control room.
The electric power needed is: 380-480VAC, 50/60Hz, 9 kW (12.5 Hp)
The compressed air supply continuously (vibrators): 1,94 N m3/min @ 6 barg / 69 cfm @ 87 psi
+ intermittent (air knife): 4,5 m3/min @ 4 barg / 159 cfm @ 58 psi
If on-site air supply cannot cover this need, an extra compressor will be needed. Typically a 25kW/33HP compressor with a reasonable received tank would be adequate.
The MudCube is certified for ATEX/IECex zone 1 for gases. A UL conformity statement from authorized party can also be provided.
Related to PureCube
The idea of applying MudCube technology beyond the oil and gas industry had been discussed for some time, but it was our Canadian partner, New Tech Solids, who took the initiative by actively pursuing new markets. Cubility itself didn’t begin exploring these opportunities until the onset of the Covid pandemic in 2020. In 2021, the PureCube trademark was introduced, specifically targeting sectors outside of oil and gas, with an initial focus on mining and construction.
We are pleased to answer YES to that. The first PureCube with electrical vibrators was supplied for a pilot project in Belgium in early 2023, following extensive in-house lab testing. Since then, more fully electric PureCubes have been delivered to “beta-customers.” Now, we are proud to announce that moving forward, all PureCubes will be equipped with electrical vibrators, unless otherwise agreed. This marks a significant advancement in our technology, offering improved efficiency and sustainability.
The biggest benefit is not to be needing compressed air supply anymore. This simplify the deployment in field greatly and reduces the overall cost of installation.
With the full electric PureCube to total energy consumption is reduced from > 20 kW (of which more than 50% relates to the compressed air consumption) and down to around 10 kW. Apart from saving costs it also reduces the CO2 footprint.
Finally, with electrical vibrators controlled by VFD’s, adjustment of the vibration is made easier to control and adapt to specific needs and thereby optimize the PureCube operation.
Apart from not being certified for operation in explosion hazardeous areas the only real limitation is the temperature limitation of the incoming flow to be treated. With pneumatic vibrators the upper temperature limit is 85 oC while with electric vibrators this limit is reduced to 55 oC
We have delivered some pilot PureCubes with WIFI access points which makes them very easy to remotely monitor from any laptop or smart-phone with access. A popular feature that is a optional feature on PureCubes onwards.
The filtration cut-point (apperture opening) is easily changed by replacing the filterbelt.
Our standard filterbelts ranges from a D-100 cut point of 46 microns up to 850 microns. Belts outside this range can be made on request.
The PureCube can operate in high altitudes, but above 2000 MASL a more powerful vacuum pump is recommended to compensate for the reduced throughput of the vacuum system with increasing altitude.
The PureCube was first demonstrated in HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling) applications in Canada in 2019. Since then, units have been installed in Australia, New Zealand, and Holland for the same purpose. The primary reported benefit is the production of dry, stackable solids, which are easy to transport. This also leads to significantly reduced drilling fluid consumption, making the PureCube an efficient and cost-effective solution for HDD operations.
The PureCube was first demonstrated in HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling) applications in Canada in 2019. Since then, units have been installed in Australia, New Zealand, and Holland for the same purpose. The primary reported benefit is the production of dry, stackable solids, which are easy to transport. This also leads to significantly reduced drilling fluid consumption, making the PureCube an efficient and cost-effective solution for HDD operations.
The PureCube was first demonstrated in a hydrovac application in Canada in 2020. Since then, several tests have been conducted, and the first commercial installation also took place in Canada. While this application area is still in the early stages of development, it shows great potential and is expected to grow in prominence over time. The PureCube’s ability to efficiently handle solids in hydrovac operations positions it as a valuable solution in this emerging market.
A standard PureCube will now be equipped with electrical vibrators as standard and will thereby only require electrical supply: 380-480VAC, 50/60Hz, 11 kW (15 Hp)
Related to PureCube / MudCube
The control system is prepared for remote control when permission is given from the local control panel. The optional camera located in the front hatch of the Cube will even allow visual remote monitoring of what is happening in the solids separation process with all covers closed.
A filterbelt can be replaced in approximately 4 minutes without any special training.
Yes, the Cubes have successfully been in operation in both tropic climate and dessert climate with temperatures ranging up towards 50 oC/122 oF
Yes, the Cubes are frequently in operation in Canada, Russia and China where temperatures can get far below freezing temperatures (-40 oC/-40oF). This may represent some challenges especially in components connected to compressed air. However, with right precautions and use of correct lubrication on vibrators, this works fine.
The Cube is primarily made of a stainless steel with some synthetic material parts.
Normally no, since all wetted steel parts are made of 316S alloy. However, with very strong acids or alcalic liquids some corrosion may still be experienced. On request the Cube can be produced in other alloys.
In standard version the Cube is very resilient to a lot of chemicals and has so far never been seen to meet an “impossible” application. However, in some cases some parts may have to be repaced with special version parts to secure a satisfactory service life.
The Cube has no structural vibrations and is made of robust materials and can thereby operate satisfactory in >25 years if maintained properly. The first MudCube installed back in 2012 is still in operation…..
The parts of the Cube are produced by a loyal network of sub-suppliers of Cubility. All assembly is done at the Cubility HQ in Sandnes, Norway. The production is acutally located in an old bicycle factory with a long and proud serial production history.
Both the MudCube and PureCube share the same core technology, but the MudCube is specifically designed for use in explosion-hazardous environments, making it ideal for oil and gas drilling, geothermal drilling, and underground mining. In contrast, the PureCube is suited for non-hazardous areas and is typically used in topside mining applications, HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling), construction, and dredging.
There are two key physical mechanisms at play here. The first involves the vacuum air being sucked through the filter belt on the MudCube, which dries the cuttings as they travel along the belt towards the discharge point. This process is absent in traditional shakers. The second, and likely dominant, mechanism is the reduced G-forces applied in the MudCube’s solids separation process—only 10% of the G-forces compared to a traditional shaker. This gentler process prevents the cuttings from breaking down and grinding into smaller pieces, resulting in discharged cuttings with a smaller surface area for mud attachment compared to those from a traditional shaker. Consequently, the MudCube significantly reduces mud loss on cuttings, typically by 25-50%, and in extreme cases, by up to 85%, when compared to a traditional shaker using the same API screen.
No special sofware, you only need a standard web-browser. The PLC we are using in the control system has a built-in web-server making remote access a breeze. In this way, the control system can be easily remote controlled via a standard lap-top or even a smart phone.
No special sofware is needed as the camera is an IP-camera which can be accessed via a regular web-browser.
Related to Cubility
The company was incorporated in 2005 by the founders, Jan Kristian Vasshus and Trond Melhus.
Related to MudCube
The first commercial MudCube system was delivered in 2012. A set of three MudCubes was installed as the primary solids control system on the offshore drilling rig Maersk Giant, a jack-up rig operating in the North Sea for Maersk Drilling. After the rig was sold to Lotos and renamed Petro Giant, the MudCubes continued to operate and remain in active use onboard today.
The second generation MudCube, also known as the Model X, was first shown to the market at the ONS event in 2018. The first commercial delivery of this new model was done to a customer in Russia in early 2019.
The semi-submersible rig, Scarabeo 5, was equipped with a MudCube system until it was decommissioned as a drilling unit. Throughout its operation, the MudCube’s performance was not negatively impacted by the rig’s movements, and no downtime was reported due to the MudCubes. However, we did encounter some challenges with the rig’s poorly designed mud return system, which caused mud to flow back into the MudCubes during heavy weather, creating operational issues. This problem can be easily resolved with a properly designed mud return system, ensuring smooth operation even in adverse conditions.
We acknowledge that in the past, the maintenance requirements for the MudCube were higher compared to a traditional shaker. However, with over 12 years of operational experience incorporated into the latest models, the MudCube is now just as easy and cost-efficient to maintain and operate as a shaker. Continuous improvements have streamlined the process, making the MudCube a highly competitive option both in terms of performance and upkeep.
We acknowledge that in the past, the maintenance requirements for the MudCube were higher compared to a traditional shaker. However, with over 12 years of operational experience incorporated into the latest models, the MudCube is now just as easy and cost-efficient to maintain and operate as a shaker. Continuous improvements have streamlined the process, making the MudCube a highly competitive option both in terms of performance and upkeep.
The shaker may have several screens/panels while the MudCube only have one filterbelt. So normally a filterbelt will be more expensive than a shaker screen. However, taking into consideration that the shaker needs several panels the cost difference may turn to opposite way. In general we normally would assume that the filterbelt cost for running MudCubes will be around the same level as the screen costs for running shakers.
The filterbelts follow the API-designations in the same way as for shaker screens. Filterbelts are available in all sizes from API-10 up to API-400. Other sizes are available on request.
Yes, all CubeBelts are tested according to the API RP13C standard and are marked with both D-100 cut-point and the Conductance value.
In a traditional shaker, high G-forces (6-12 G) are necessary to move the cuttings forward on the screen and drop them in front of the unit. However, these high G-forces inevitably cause the cuttings to grind during the liquid/solids separation process, generating fines. Some of these fines are small enough to pass through the screen, thereby contaminating the filtered mud with additional low gravity solids (LGS). In contrast, the MudCube does not rely on G-forces to move the cuttings forward; instead, this is handled automatically by the rotating belt. As a result, no grinding of solids occurs on top of the filter belt, preventing extra fines from entering the filtered mud. Therefore, the underflow of a MudCube will consistently have fewer LGS compared to a shaker equipped with the same API screen.
The MudCube is designed as a closed unit that operates under slight negative pressure, created by its vacuum system. This design ensures that no gases or vapors can escape during operation, offering a significant advantage for operators, particularly when working in confined spaces such as those commonly found on offshore installations and some arctic rigs. This feature enhances safety and creates a cleaner work environment, making it especially beneficial in areas where containment of hazardous substances is critical.
The MudCube is specifically designed to operate with all covers closed, and all necessary operator interventions are planned and facilitated with this in mind. While it is possible to enclose a traditional shaker with ventilation hoods to contain fumes and gases, these units were not originally designed for such enclosed operation. This makes operator interventions more challenging and significantly reduces visibility, making it difficult to monitor the separation process. In contrast, the MudCube’s design prioritizes both containment and ease of operation, ensuring a safer and more efficient workflow.
The MudCube is specifically designed to operate with all covers closed, and all necessary operator interventions are planned and facilitated with this in mind. While it is possible to enclose a traditional shaker with ventilation hoods to contain fumes and gases, these units were not originally designed for such enclosed operation. This makes operator interventions more challenging and significantly reduces visibility, making it difficult to monitor the separation process. In contrast, the MudCube’s design prioritizes both containment and ease of operation, ensuring a safer and more efficient workflow.
With its low G-force vibrations the MudCube have no structural vibrations and very low noise level compared to a traditional shale shaker. In especially sensitive areas the MudCube may turn out to be the only real option for proper solids control.
There is no difference in the MudCubes ability to process water based mud (WBM) compared to oil based mud (OBM) – it follows the same physical laws.
First and foremost, the primary objective of any serious solids control unit is to produce the driest cuttings possible while maintaining the drilling fluid properties within designated limits, maximizing fluid reclamation. We are proud to say that no other solids control unit outperforms the MudCube in producing dry cuttings. However, it has become clear that the systems designed to handle cuttings after they exit the solids control equipment are, in some cases, not optimized for managing dry cuttings—particularly in offshore operations. If this becomes an issue where MudCubes are installed, it can be easily addressed by running the units with a finer belt, producing wetter cuttings, or by bleeding in liquid to lubricate the transport system. That said, perhaps it’s time to address the root cause and upgrade the transport system to handle dry cuttings effectively?
When the load on a MudCube increases, you can simply adjust the speed of the belt to handle the increased volume. This achieves a similar effect to tilting a shaker in traditional systems, as it allows the MudCube to efficiently process higher loads without compromising performance. This feature provides precise control and adaptability, ensuring optimal solids separation even under varying conditions.
‘- Less mud losses
– Less waste
– Improved mud quality
– All harmful gasses and vapours are contained
– The noise level is moderate
– There are no structural vibrations
The integrated camera in the MudCube offers the shaker-hand (or the driller) full visibility of the solids separation process with all covers closed – from the control room.
The electric power needed is: 380-480VAC, 50/60Hz, 9 kW (12.5 Hp)
The compressed air supply continuously (vibrators): 1,94 N m3/min @ 6 barg / 69 cfm @ 87 psi
+ intermittent (air knife): 4,5 m3/min @ 4 barg / 159 cfm @ 58 psi
If on-site air supply cannot cover this need, an extra compressor will be needed. Typically a 25kW/33HP compressor with a reasonable received tank would be adequate.
The MudCube is certified for ATEX/IECex zone 1 for gases. A UL conformity statement from authorized party can also be provided.
Related to PureCube
The idea of applying MudCube technology beyond the oil and gas industry had been discussed for some time, but it was our Canadian partner, New Tech Solids, who took the initiative by actively pursuing new markets. Cubility itself didn’t begin exploring these opportunities until the onset of the Covid pandemic in 2020. In 2021, the PureCube trademark was introduced, specifically targeting sectors outside of oil and gas, with an initial focus on mining and construction.
We are pleased to answer YES to that. The first PureCube with electrical vibrators was supplied for a pilot project in Belgium in early 2023, following extensive in-house lab testing. Since then, more fully electric PureCubes have been delivered to “beta-customers.” Now, we are proud to announce that moving forward, all PureCubes will be equipped with electrical vibrators, unless otherwise agreed. This marks a significant advancement in our technology, offering improved efficiency and sustainability.
The biggest benefit is not to be needing compressed air supply anymore. This simplify the deployment in field greatly and reduces the overall cost of installation.
With the full electric PureCube to total energy consumption is reduced from > 20 kW (of which more than 50% relates to the compressed air consumption) and down to around 10 kW. Apart from saving costs it also reduces the CO2 footprint.
Finally, with electrical vibrators controlled by VFD’s, adjustment of the vibration is made easier to control and adapt to specific needs and thereby optimize the PureCube operation.
Apart from not being certified for operation in explosion hazardeous areas the only real limitation is the temperature limitation of the incoming flow to be treated. With pneumatic vibrators the upper temperature limit is 85 oC while with electric vibrators this limit is reduced to 55 oC
We have delivered some pilot PureCubes with WIFI access points which makes them very easy to remotely monitor from any laptop or smart-phone with access. A popular feature that is a optional feature on PureCubes onwards.
The filtration cut-point (apperture opening) is easily changed by replacing the filterbelt.
Our standard filterbelts ranges from a D-100 cut point of 46 microns up to 850 microns. Belts outside this range can be made on request.
The PureCube can operate in high altitudes, but above 2000 MASL a more powerful vacuum pump is recommended to compensate for the reduced throughput of the vacuum system with increasing altitude.
The PureCube was first demonstrated in HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling) applications in Canada in 2019. Since then, units have been installed in Australia, New Zealand, and Holland for the same purpose. The primary reported benefit is the production of dry, stackable solids, which are easy to transport. This also leads to significantly reduced drilling fluid consumption, making the PureCube an efficient and cost-effective solution for HDD operations.
The PureCube was first demonstrated in HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling) applications in Canada in 2019. Since then, units have been installed in Australia, New Zealand, and Holland for the same purpose. The primary reported benefit is the production of dry, stackable solids, which are easy to transport. This also leads to significantly reduced drilling fluid consumption, making the PureCube an efficient and cost-effective solution for HDD operations.
The PureCube was first demonstrated in a hydrovac application in Canada in 2020. Since then, several tests have been conducted, and the first commercial installation also took place in Canada. While this application area is still in the early stages of development, it shows great potential and is expected to grow in prominence over time. The PureCube’s ability to efficiently handle solids in hydrovac operations positions it as a valuable solution in this emerging market.
A standard PureCube will now be equipped with electrical vibrators as standard and will thereby only require electrical supply: 380-480VAC, 50/60Hz, 11 kW (15 Hp)
Related to PureCube / MudCube
The control system is prepared for remote control when permission is given from the local control panel. The optional camera located in the front hatch of the Cube will even allow visual remote monitoring of what is happening in the solids separation process with all covers closed.
A filterbelt can be replaced in approximately 4 minutes without any special training.
Yes, the Cubes have successfully been in operation in both tropic climate and dessert climate with temperatures ranging up towards 50 oC/122 oF
Yes, the Cubes are frequently in operation in Canada, Russia and China where temperatures can get far below freezing temperatures (-40 oC/-40oF). This may represent some challenges especially in components connected to compressed air. However, with right precautions and use of correct lubrication on vibrators, this works fine.
The Cube is primarily made of a stainless steel with some synthetic material parts.
Normally no, since all wetted steel parts are made of 316S alloy. However, with very strong acids or alcalic liquids some corrosion may still be experienced. On request the Cube can be produced in other alloys.
In standard version the Cube is very resilient to a lot of chemicals and has so far never been seen to meet an “impossible” application. However, in some cases some parts may have to be repaced with special version parts to secure a satisfactory service life.
The Cube has no structural vibrations and is made of robust materials and can thereby operate satisfactory in >25 years if maintained properly. The first MudCube installed back in 2012 is still in operation…..
The parts of the Cube are produced by a loyal network of sub-suppliers of Cubility. All assembly is done at the Cubility HQ in Sandnes, Norway. The production is acutally located in an old bicycle factory with a long and proud serial production history.
Both the MudCube and PureCube share the same core technology, but the MudCube is specifically designed for use in explosion-hazardous environments, making it ideal for oil and gas drilling, geothermal drilling, and underground mining. In contrast, the PureCube is suited for non-hazardous areas and is typically used in topside mining applications, HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling), construction, and dredging.
There are two key physical mechanisms at play here. The first involves the vacuum air being sucked through the filter belt on the MudCube, which dries the cuttings as they travel along the belt towards the discharge point. This process is absent in traditional shakers. The second, and likely dominant, mechanism is the reduced G-forces applied in the MudCube’s solids separation process—only 10% of the G-forces compared to a traditional shaker. This gentler process prevents the cuttings from breaking down and grinding into smaller pieces, resulting in discharged cuttings with a smaller surface area for mud attachment compared to those from a traditional shaker. Consequently, the MudCube significantly reduces mud loss on cuttings, typically by 25-50%, and in extreme cases, by up to 85%, when compared to a traditional shaker using the same API screen.
No special sofware, you only need a standard web-browser. The PLC we are using in the control system has a built-in web-server making remote access a breeze. In this way, the control system can be easily remote controlled via a standard lap-top or even a smart phone.
No special sofware is needed as the camera is an IP-camera which can be accessed via a regular web-browser.