Relever les défis du bruit dans les exploitations minières modernes 

Dans l'industrie minière d'aujourd'hui, les réglementations strictes en matière de bruit représentent un défi important pour l'efficacité opérationnelle, empêchant souvent les sites miniers de maximiser les heures de production. Des émissions sonores excessives peuvent entraîner des dépassements de normes, des plaintes de la population et des arrêts d'exploitation, ce qui a un impact sur la productivité et la conformité. Conscient de ces défis, Minetek a été chargé de développer une solution complète d'atténuation du bruit pour un camion Hitachi EH5000, afin d'assurer la conformité aux réglementations sur le bruit tout en maintenant les performances opérationnelles. 

Le défi : surmonter les restrictions sonores pour débloquer la productivité 

Soumis à des réglementations environnementales strictes en matière de bruit, le client devait limiter la capacité de sa flotte en raison de niveaux de bruit excessifs (122 dBA). Ces émissions sonores élevées présentaient un risque de dépassement de la réglementation et de restrictions potentielles sur l'extension des opérations. En outre, le bruit excessif contribuait à perturber la communauté, mettant en péril la licence sociale d'exploitation de la mine. Le client avait besoin d'une solution innovante et robuste pour réduire de manière significative les émissions sonores sans compromettre les performances de l'équipement, la circulation de l'air ou l'accessibilité pour la maintenance. 

La solution : une atténuation du bruit à la pointe de l'industrie pour une conformité maximale 

Minetek a développé et mis en œuvre un ensemble d'atténuation sonore entièrement intégré, adapté à l'Hitachi EH5000. Cette solution a été conçue pour atténuer les bruits excessifs à la source tout en garantissant la fiabilité de la machine. Les principaux composants sont les suivants 

• Système d'échappement à double paroi 

• Atténuateur de radiateur 

• Panneaux gauche et droit du moteur 

• Panneau ventral 

• Atténuation du capot 

En incorporant ces composants spécialisés, Minetek a réussi à réduire le niveau de puissance acoustique de 122 dBA à 114 dBA, garantissant ainsi une conformité totale avec les limites réglementaires en matière de bruit. Cette réduction a permis à la flotte de fonctionner dans des seuils de bruit acceptables, préservant ainsi la capacité de la mine à fonctionner sans interruption. 

L'impact : développement de la capacité opérationnelle et renforcement de la conformité 

La mise en œuvre de la solution d'atténuation du bruit de Minetek a apporté des avantages significatifs aux opérations du client, permettant d'atteindre de nouveaux niveaux d'efficacité et de conformité. Les principaux résultats sont les suivants 

• Plage de fonctionnement étendue - Avec des niveaux de bruit considérablement réduits, la flotte Hitachi EH5000 a pu fonctionner à 600 mètres plus près de la limite/du récepteur sonore, ce qui a permis d'optimiser la productivité du site. 

• Augmentation des heures d'ouverture - L'élimination des dépassements sonores a permis au client de prolonger les heures d'ouverture jusqu'à trois heures supplémentaires par jour, ce qui a amélioré le rendement global. 

• Amélioration de la conformité réglementaire - La solution a permis d'assurer une conformité totale avec les réglementations strictes en matière de bruit, réduisant ainsi le risque de restrictions opérationnelles et d'amendes. 

• Amélioration des relations avec les parties prenantes et la communauté - En traitant les problèmes de bruit de manière proactive, la mine a renforcé son permis social d'exploitation, en réduisant les plaintes de la communauté et en favorisant des relations positives avec les parties prenantes locales. 

Mise en œuvre transparente : minimisation des temps d'arrêt, maximisation de la productivité

Consciente de l'importance de minimiser les perturbations opérationnelles, l'équipe d'installation spécialisée de Minetek a travaillé en fonction de la disponibilité des actifs, s'assurant ainsi que l'ensemble des mesures d'atténuation était intégré avec un minimum de temps d'arrêt. Cette approche stratégique a permis au client de maintenir sa productivité tout au long du processus d'installation, démontrant ainsi l'engagement de Minetek à fournir des solutions pratiques et axées sur les résultats. 

Une nouvelle référence en matière de suppression du bruit dans l'industrie minière 

L'ensemble innovant d'atténuation sonore de Minetek pour l'Hitachi EH5000 établit une nouvelle norme pour la réduction du bruit dans l'industrie minière, prouvant que la conformité et la productivité peuvent coexister sans compromis. En s'attaquant de manière proactive au bruit à la source, les exploitations minières peuvent prolonger les heures d'exploitation, éliminer les dépassements et renforcer leur licence sociale d'exploitation, garantissant ainsi la durabilité et l'efficacité à long terme. 

Minetek continue de montrer la voie en matière de suppression du bruit dans les mines, en fournissant des solutions avancées qui permettent aux sites miniers du monde entier de se conformer à la réglementation tout en optimisant la productivité. 

Découvrez comment les solutions de réduction du bruit de Minetek, à la pointe de l'industrie, peuvent soutenir votre activité. Contactez notre équipe dès aujourd'hui. 

The mining industry is known for its extensive regulatory framework and high operational costs, making it one of the most tightly controlled sectors worldwide. Governments and international bodies enforce stringent regulations to address diverse areas, including environmental impact, labour standards, safety protocols, and community engagement.

Among these regulations, one particularly challenging aspect is managing noise emissions, especially from machinery on mining sites. Compliance with noise regulations poses a significant challenge, creating a complex regulatory landscape for those responsible for machinery noise management on-site.

ISO 6393 and ISO 6395 are critical standards that form the foundation of noise management in mining operations. These standards are essential for setting benchmarks and guidelines for noise emissions from mining machinery while ensuring regulatory compliance and fostering safer work environments.

What is ISO 6393?

ISO 6393 is a key standard focused on addressing machinery noise emissions. It defines stringent protocols for measuring sound emissions under stationary conditions, ensuring consistency and reliability in assessing sound power levels during machine operation.

The ISO 6393 standard highlights the critical need for testing machinery in configurations that replicate real-world conditions, such as using attachments like buckets or dozers. This ensures that manufacturers and operators can accurately assess whether their machinery complies with regulatory noise limits set by authorities.

Additionally, ISO 6393 serves as a cornerstone for noise reduction initiatives in mining operations. It not only aids in achieving compliance with regulatory requirements but also supports broader efforts to minimise environmental impact and enhance workplace safety.

What is ISO 6395?

ISO 6395 defines a systematic approach to evaluating noise emissions from earth-moving machinery. Instead of real work cycles, it uses simulated dynamic test conditions to produce consistent and reliable noise data. The standard provides detailed procedures for measuring sound power emissions under dynamic conditions, focusing on typical attachments used in the machine’s production configuration.

By adhering to ISO 6395, manufacturers and operators can ensure compliance with regulatory noise limits. Complementary standards, such as ISO 6396, address noise levels at the operator’s position during dynamic tests, while ISO 6393 and ISO 6394 focus on noise emissions to the environment and at the operator’s position under stationary conditions.

Overall, ISO 6395 offers a structured framework for managing machinery noise in mining operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, improving safety, and supporting effective noise mitigation strategies.

Minetek’s Proven Track Record in Noise Solutions

Minetek stands out in the industry with its globally recognised leadership in developing, manufacturing, and implementing advanced, modular solutions for sound attenuation and machine noise reduction in mining. Our innovative technologies, designed to reduce noise by up to 50% without compromising machine integrity, airflow, or maintenance accessibility, allow mining operations to meet their stringent regulatory and community noise standards.

Minetek leveraged advanced sound testing and visualisation techniques to identify key noise sources in the Komatsu PC7000. This data allowed engineers to strategically address critical components, including the exhaust system, belly panels, and radiators. Each element of Minetek’s sound attenuation solution was tailored to the machine’s specific acoustic frequencies, delivering targeted noise reduction.

In addition to lowering noise levels, the designs significantly reduced surface temperatures of exhaust and engine parts, enhancing operational efficiency and overall machine performance.

Minetek’s turnkey Sound Attenuation package achieved an impressive 11 dBA reduction, lowering the PC7000’s noise output to 116 dBA. This advancement enables the excavator to operate over 50% closer to the mine boundary, with distances up to 281.8m from sound receivers, setting a new benchmark for noise suppression in mining operations.

Achieving Compliance and Setting New Standards

At Minetek, ensuring compliance with regulatory and community noise requirements is at the core of our approach. Through comprehensive sound testing, innovative engineering, and strong collaborative partnerships, our solutions consistently meet the highest standards, instilling confidence in stakeholders and enabling sustainable mining practices for future growth.

Minetek is committed to advancing noise management technologies, delivering cutting-edge solutions that prioritise environmental stewardship and workplace safety, setting a benchmark for excellence in the mining industry.

Click the link below to download Minetek’s Sound’s Komatsu PC7000 case study to learn more about the successful project.

Download Now

In mining operations, noise from heavy machinery isn’t just an annoyance—it’s a serious risk to worker safety, can impact surrounding communities, and can challenge regulatory compliance. With effective noise reduction solutions, however, these risks can be minimised, creating safer, more productive work environments.

Minetek Sound approaches this challenge with a unique blend of acoustic expertise and mechanical innovation. For over 25 years, we’ve redefined what quiet mining machines can be, developing noise reduction solutions that make Minetek the creator of the world’s quietest mining machines, reducing sound levels by up to 50%.

Our process starts by identifying major noise sources within mining machinery. Through advanced sound testing and analysis, Minetek engineers measure exposure levels and pinpoint areas for noise reduction. This proactive approach not only safeguards workers’ hearing but also improves operational conditions, enabling a safer, more productive workplace.

What is sound testing?

Sound testing measures sound pressure levels (SPL) to evaluate the noise emitted by specific sources, providing essential insights into the performance of noise attenuation systems by analysing key aspects of noise emission and its impact.

At Minetek, our sound testing solutions go beyond simple measurements—they lay the groundwork for developing comprehensive sound attenuation and noise mitigation programs. Tailored to each operation’s unique needs, these programs address specific noise challenges, delivering effective, targeted solutions for optimal noise control.

What are the benefits of sound testing?

Sound testing is central to Minetek Sound’s noise reduction strategy, offering key advantages that support effective noise management in mining operations.

Understanding Noise Sources: Through sound testing, we conduct a detailed analysis of noise emissions from specific machinery or equipment. By measuring sound pressure levels (SPL) at multiple points around the source, engineers can assess noise intensity and distribution, pinpointing which components or operational factors contribute most to overall noise levels.

Strategic Placement: Sound testing also identifies the optimal locations for installing noise reduction equipment. By measuring noise levels throughout the environment, engineers can focus mitigation efforts on the most problematic areas, ensuring that noise reduction solutions are targeted where they’ll have the most significant impact, rather than applying a broad, one-size-fits-all approach.

This targeted methodology ensures maximum effectiveness in reducing noise, creating safer and quieter mining operations.

Assessing Effectiveness: Sound testing enables us to evaluate the real-world performance of noise attenuation systems. By comparing noise levels before and after implementing control measures, Minetek engineers can assess the effectiveness of each solution and pinpoint areas for further enhancement.

Optimising Design: For new equipment or installations, sound testing is vital to understanding how design modifications impact noise performance. This continuous assessment ensures that designs are refined for optimal noise reduction while preserving equipment efficiency and functionality.

Relations communautaires: Sound testing also addresses community concerns around noise pollution. By demonstrating that noise levels are controlled and reduced to acceptable levels, Minetek supports mining operations in maintaining positive relationships with local communities.

Compliance with Global Standards: Minetek Sound’s testing solutions adhere to ISO 6393 and 6395 standards, internationally recognised benchmarks for noise testing in machinery and equipment. By integrating these standards, we ensure that our testing methods align with global best practices, delivering reliable and consistent results.

Our commitment to these standards underscores our dedication to quality and credibility, demonstrating that our noise control solutions not only meet but often exceed international requirements for noise management.

Minetek Sound is Leading the Way in Advanced Noise Reduction Solutions for Mining

With over 30 years of experience, Minetek is a global leader in designing, manufacturing, and implementing advanced modular sound suppression and machine noise reduction solutions. Our innovative outdoor noise-cancelling systems are unmatched, enabling industrial leaders to achieve the world’s quietest mining machines.

Our results speak for themselves. We have successfully attenuated noise on more than 2,500 mining machines across over 90 OEM-approved models. Our solutions reduce mining noise by up to 50%, helping operations minimise safety risks for operators while meeting regulatory and community noise standards.

Choosing Minetek Sound means investing in more than just a product. It’s a commitment to a future where noise management is led by expertise, precision, and a steadfast dedication to safer, quieter, and more productive mining. It’s an investment in a more sustainable and responsible approach to mining.

Click below to download our eBook on Minetek’s noise reduction solutions and site optimisation.

Download Now

The Role of NSW’s EPA in Mining Operations

To understand the NSW mining landscape, it’s essential to consider the role of the Environment Protection Authority (EPA). Tasked with protecting both the environment and public health across New South Wales, the EPA regulates activities with potential environmental impact, including air and water pollution, waste management, and land use—along with industrial noise.

Under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (POEO Act), the EPA enforces noise regulations for licensed industrial sites, including mines. If noise levels exceed limits due to improper maintenance or handling, the EPA can issue notices to address the issue, including noise control, prevention, and abatement directions.

Non-compliance can lead to significant penalties:

• Corporations: Fines of up to $60,000 for noise control notices and $1,000,000 for prevention notices, with daily penalties for ongoing violations.
• Individuals: Fines of up to $30,000 for noise control notices and $250,000 for prevention notices, with daily penalties for continued non-compliance.

The POEO (Noise Control) Regulation also mandates noise labeling standards to ensure clear compliance guidelines.

This regulatory landscape highlights the need for NSW mines to strictly adhere to environmental standards, avoiding fines and maintaining their social license to operate. Compliance not only reduces legal risks but also supports sustainable practices that protect workers, communities, and natural habitats. For mines in NSW, proactive solutions like Minetek’s noise reduction technology are essential to meet EPA standards and support a sustainable future for mining operations in the state.

Minetek’s Solutions for Noise Reduction

Mining operations rely on various machinery, each contributing significantly to overall noise levels. Core extraction tools, like drills and stageloaders, can reach 90–110 dB, while haul trucks often operate at 90–100 dB. Minetek serves as a critical partner to NSW mining sites, helping them lower noise to meet EPA standards without sacrificing efficiency or profitability.

As specialists in noise reduction, Minetek produces the world’s quietest mining machines, capable of cutting noise levels by up to 50%. This substantial reduction not only reduces health risks but also ensures compliance with regulatory and community noise standards. Our adaptable solutions enable noise control in mining equipment without compromising key factors like machine integrity, airflow, and maintenance accessibility. With extensive experience in sound auditing and a consultative approach, Minetek empowers mining operations to meet strict noise regulations, securing community and regulatory support for continued growth and future expansions.

Minetek Sound, a global leader in sound attenuation and noise management, is recognised for our unmatched ability to help original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and mining operations achieve some of the quietest machinery in the industry. With a proven track record of attenuating noise on over 1,200 mining machines, we are committed to delivering advanced solutions that enhance productivity while significantly reducing noise-related impacts on operators and maintenance teams.

Our expertise extends far beyond noise reduction solutions. Minetek Sound is known for its comprehensive service and support offerings, which are a cornerstone of our reputation for excellence. Our commitment to superior service is evident in our extensive post-project support, including:

Spare Parts Supply Planning
Minetek Sound excels in strategic spare parts management through a well-structured planning process that ensures smooth operations and minimises downtime. We conduct detailed analyses to forecast spare parts requirements based on machine usage patterns and historical data. Our optimised supply chain logistics ensure critical components are always available when needed. By maintaining a well-organised inventory system and fostering strong supplier relationships, we can quickly address part shortages or unexpected failures. This proactive approach prevents costly delays, enabling rapid maintenance and repairs, and keeping your machinery running at peak efficiency.

Reporting & Monitoring
Our solutions offer comprehensive performance reporting and continuous monitoring, essential for maintaining high machine performance. By implementing advanced data collection and analysis tools, we provide detailed reports on key operational metrics, such as machine efficiency, usage patterns, and wear and tear. More importantly, our real-time monitoring capabilities allow us to track these metrics continuously, identifying potential issues before they escalate into major problems. This proactive approach—central to our service—enables immediate corrective actions, ensuring your equipment stays in optimal condition and reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns, giving you peace of mind.

Modifications & Upgrades
Our team specialises in modifications and upgrades, ensuring your machinery stays aligned with evolving operational demands and technological advancements. We thoroughly assess your equipment’s performance, identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, productivity, and safety. Whether it’s integrating new technologies, adapting to regulatory changes, or optimising machine components, our skilled engineers design and implement tailored solutions to meet your needs, keeping your equipment future-ready.

Technical Guidance
Minetek Sound offers expert technical guidance to help you overcome any operational challenges. Our team of specialists delivers in-depth technical support and problem-solving expertise to address machine performance, maintenance, and troubleshooting needs. We provide actionable insights and solutions to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your machinery. Our technical guidance includes thorough diagnostic procedures, recommendations for corrective actions, and advice on best practices. By leveraging our expertise, you can tackle operational challenges more effectively, boost machine reliability, and ensure your equipment continues to perform at its best for years to come.

Minetek’s Comprehensive Support and Global Reach
Our long-standing relationships with clients are a testament to our commitment to aligning with their goals and supporting mutual success. Understanding the complexities of active mine sites, we have developed a global network of experienced service providers, allowing us to offer tailored support for diverse mining and industrial operations around the world.

With strategically positioned service and support teams, we ensure maximum machine availability and performance for leading mining operators globally. Our exceptional after-sales support and dedication to maintaining high operational efficiency help industrial leaders achieve excellence, improve profitability, and maintain a competitive edge.

As the Australian autumn settles in, it’s crucial to reflect on the challenges of the recent winter and start preparing for the next. Australia just experienced an unusually cold season, with temperatures dropping about five degrees below average. Similar weather patterns are anticipated to affect the Northern Hemisphere in the coming months.

Cold weather, combined with snow and ice, poses several challenges to the mining industry. Machinery malfunctions, operational delays, and increased maintenance needs are common, all of which raise operational costs and hinder productivity. However, one often overlooked consequence of winter conditions is how cold temperatures affect noise from mining equipment, causing it to travel further.

How Cold Weather Amplifies Noise in Mining Operations

Cold air, particularly in winter, changes the way sound travels. Lower temperatures increase the density of air, allowing sound waves to carry further than they would in warmer conditions. For mining machines, this can mean a significant rise in noise levels, which has a range of effects both within the mine and on the surrounding community.

Implications for Mining Companies Globally

1. Impact on Nearby Communities
   Increased noise pollution during colder months can significantly disrupt communities near mining sites. This isn’t just a matter of inconvenience—it can lead to health concerns, such as increased stress and sleep disturbances. The cold amplifies the already noisy operations, and residents may find their quality of life diminished as communication, daily activities, and leisure are disrupted.
2. Rising Complaints
   As noise becomes more noticeable in winter, mining companies are likely to see an increase in noise-related complaints. Managing these grievances efficiently will require mining companies to allocate additional resources to community engagement and complaint resolution. Failing to address these concerns can damage the company’s reputation and strain relations with local communities.
3. Regulatory Challenges
   Mining companies must comply with strict noise regulations, and amplified noise levels during cold weather increase the risk of breaching these standards. Non-compliance can lead to fines, legal challenges, and operational restrictions, further complicating the business.
4. Environmental Impact
   The heightened noise levels don’t just affect humans; they also disrupt local wildlife and ecosystems. Many animals rely on quiet environments for communication, hunting, and reproduction. Excessive noise can force them to abandon their habitats, leading to reduced biodiversity and altered ecosystems. Combined with other environmental stresses from mining, this can result in long-term ecological damage.

Preparing for Cold Weather and Noise Challenges

Mining companies must be proactive in addressing these seasonal noise challenges, taking steps to ensure both regulatory compliance and community harmony. The winter chill serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness between weather conditions and mining operations, emphasising the need for resilient and adaptive practices.

Minetek’s Sound Solutions

Minetek is globally recognised for its innovative sound suppression and noise reduction technologies tailored specifically to mining environments. Our Australian-made solutions have successfully reduced noise across more than 1,200 mining machines and over 90 OEM-approved models.

Our modular systems are engineered to deliver up to 50% noise reduction, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and community expectations, even in extreme weather. Whether in sun, snow, or rain, Minetek’s solutions protect the environment, safeguard worker well-being, and minimise the impact of mining activities on nearby communities.

Our commitment to innovation drives us to create safer, more sustainable mining practices, no matter the season.