Turn-key sound attenuation solution to reduce Komatsu 930 E-3 and 930 E-4 haul truck noise at a Hunter Valley coal mine.
The Komatsu 930 E is a robust, off-highway haul truck with an ultra-class designation. Designed and manufactured by Komatsu in Peoria, Illinois, United States, the 930 E boasts a rigid frame and a two-axle configuration. While it may not be Komatsu’s largest or highest payload capacity truck, the company considers it the flagship of their haul truck product line.
The current model, the 930 E-5, offers an impressive payload capacity of up to 320 short tons (290 t).
Industry – التعدين
Mine type – Open-cut
Mineral – Coal
Location – Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia
Product/Scope – Sound attenuation on Komatsu 930 E-3 and 930 E-4 haul trucks
Brief
Minetek was commissioned to design and manufacture a Sound Attenuation Package for the Komatsu 930 E-3 and Komatsu 930 E-4 Haul Truck that would allow our client to operate the machine in accordance with the stringent noise regulations onsite and reduce noise affecting nearby community members.
Challenge
Our client was receiving a large number of complaints from nearby residents which impacted machine operating hours and overall production and profitability.
Solution
The Sound Attenuation Package developed was comprised of multiple components including:
1. Suppressed exhaust system
2. Radiator attenuator
3. Bumper extension
4. Left- and right-hand engine panels
5. Belly panels
6. Horseshoe attenuator
7. Horseshoe engine panels
8. Air intake attenuator
9. Grid box attenuators
10. Duct assembly
11. Fan discharge silencer
12. Grade 5 sound media
With Minetek's Sound Attenuation Package installed, our client received significantly less noise complaints from the nearby community whilst operating the machines for significantly more hours.
Pre attenuation
136 dBA
Minetek tested the sound output of the Komatsu 930 E – 3/4 prior to attenuation. This registered a sound frequency level of 136 dBA.
Post attenuation
123 dBA
The sound output of the Komatsu 930 E – 3/4 was tested after installing Minetek’s turn-key Sound Attenuation Package. This registered a sound frequency level of 123 dBA.
Sound reduction
13 dBA
Minetek was able to reduce the sound output of the Komatsu 930 E- 3/4 haul truck by 13dBA.
600m closer to the boundary/sound receiver
Sound power level attenuation over distances assuming: Hemispherical radiation (Q = 2) Ideal weather conditions (no temperature inversion later, wind fog, etc)