Shale Shaker While Drilling With OBM A shale shaker is the first line of defense in the solids control system during drilling operations—especially critical when drilling with oil-based mud (OBM). Here’s a quick breakdown: Function: It removes large cuttings from the circulating drilling fluid (mud) before the mud is reused. Protects downstream equipment like desanders and desilters. With Oil-Based Mud: OBM is more expensive than water-based mud, so efficient recovery is crucial. Shakers use fin