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Italian Turn-key sound attenuation solution to reduce Liebherr R 9800 excavator noise at a Hunter Valley coal mine.
The Liebherr R 9800 is one of the largest OEM mining excavators in the world. At 800 tonnes it is designed for large-capacity mining operations and can work on almost any surface. Developed as the optimal loading tool for large-scale mining operations, the R 9800 is able to achieve even the most challenging of targets. Powered by two V16 cylinder engines, each with a displacement of 537 cubic litres, the Liebherr R 9800 can move up to 240,000 cubic metres of dirt and rock per day.
Industry – Mining
Mine type – Open-cut
Mineral – Coal
Location – Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia
Product/Scope – Sound attenuation on the Liebherr R 9800 Excavator
Brief
Minetek were commissioned to design and manufacture the first sound attenuation package in the world for the Liebherr R 9800 mining excavator. The goal of the project was to reduce the machine's operating noise down to the site noise level without compromising the machine's operating capacity, adding excess weight to the machine, or restricting access for routine maintenance and servicing.
Challenge
With such outstanding capabilities, the machine's high operating noise levels are a common challenge for mine sites. Community expectations and noise compliance conditions have strict requirements set by governing bodies, with significant fines and implications if not adhered to. The operating noise level of the Liebherr R 9800 is 126 dBA. As such, mining operations are often unable to operate the excavator within noise-sensitive times or areas due to the machine's excessive noise output.
Solution
With the Sound Attenuation Package installed, the Liebherr R 9800 operates at the incredibly low noise output of 114dBA - a 12dBA sound reduction that allowed our Hunter Valley mining client to operate the machine 1000m closer to the boundary/sound receiver. Minetek is internationally recognised among OEMs and mining operators as a producer of the world’s quietest mining sound attenuation kits. Our sound attenuation solutions are engineered to maintain productivity and minimise the impact on operators and maintenance teams. Minetek’s modular sound suppression kits are available for mining trucks, excavators, dozers, loaders and drills, with certified install teams available globally.
Pre attenuation
126 dBA
Minetek tested the sound output of the Liebherr R 9800 prior to attenuation. This registered a sound frequency level of 126 dBA.
Post attenuation
114 dBA
The sound output of the Liebherr R 9800 was tested after installing Minetek’s turn-key sound attention package. This registered a sound frequency level of 114 dBA.
Sound reduction
12 dBA
Minetek was able to reduce the sound output on the Liebherr R 9800 mining excavator by 12dBA.
1000m 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)