Mud tank

Drilling Equipment & Components

Mud tanks are large open-top steel containers used to store and condition drilling fluid on a rig. They are arranged in a series (active system) where mud flows from compartment to compartment, allowing solids to settle and additives to be mixed. The suction tank is the final compartment from which mud pumps draw fluid to send downhole.

Proper management of mud tanks is vital for maintaining fluid properties. Agitators (mixers) run continuously to prevent barite and other weighting agents from settling out of suspension. The tank system also integrates with solids control equipment like shale shakers and centrifuges to clean the mud returning from the well.