Noise control is often one of the less significant considerations when planning and implementing mining developments. While environmental regulations need to be met, noise does not pose an immediate risk to the life of miners or the community at large.

Mine sites often choose to reactively control noise pollution only once an incident has occurred, as either a breach of regulation or pressure from the local community emerge. However, noise is a generic hazard common to the entire industry and all mining operations. One in four mineworkers has hearing issues, with four out of five miners having a hearing impairment by the time they reach their mid-60s. Industrial Deafness compensation claims can be costly to the industry. Hearing loss, compensation payments, and public awareness are all on the rise.

Proactive sound attenuation is the best noise control solution, helping to mitigate issues and reap the immediate rewards of strategic noise dampening without economic loss of downtime or fines. Minetek can help sites assess all elements of sound suppression and embed sound as a key consideration in all safety and environmental initiatives.

What are the options for noise control?

There are three main types of engineering noise control in industrial workplaces. Each of these methods comes with factors that need to be addressed. These are:

1. Employer control
2. Contrôler le bruit à la source
3. Contrôle de la propagation du bruit

1. Employer Noise Control

This is achieved by workers wearing hearing protection.

Considerations

Employer PPE is the easiest sound control method but should be seen as an additional supplement on top of proper noise control. Hearing protection relies on individual workers to fit and wear protection and does not control site noise or vibrations that may cause environmental or community breaches.

2. Controlling Noise at the Source

This is achieved by the substitution of processes, work methods, materials, or equipment. Specification of quieter machines or minimising the number of machines running at a given time.

Maintaining equipment or well-designed machines with sound in mind can also mitigate noise. The reduction of mechanical shock between parts, friction or vibration can reduce the sound.

Considerations

While controlling noise at the source is a reasonable method for sound control, not all options are realistic. Running fewer machines or limiting production to certain times can seriously impede the site’s ROI, as seen at New Acland in NSW.

Additionally, choosing to change work methods, processes or equipment can be both timely, and costly, and often come with additional safety assessments and red tape.

Substituting machinery or machinery parts to reduce noise is the best option to control noise at the source. There are several complexities that need to be considered when doing this, and many offerings on the market, such as fan substitution, sacrifice machine performance, power and longevity in the name of noise suppression.

Minetek can assist in a full assessment of viable options to control noise at the source, that won’t reduce power, performance or profitability of the equipment or site.

3. Controlling Noise Propagation

This is achieved by blocking the sound waves from travelling, either using barriers, enclosures, reactive or dissipative mufflers, reverberation control or active noise control.

Considerations

Controlling noise propagation is another feasible option if performed correctly. Sound suppression idlers, engine attenuation, and acoustic engine enclosures are all options for great reduction however, just like controlling noise at the source, due care must be taken to not overheat, crowd, or block the engine. Many companies in the market fail to consider the longevity of equipment, choosing to sacrifice quality for immediate cost savings.

Incorrect or low-quality sound suppression can severely hamper a machine’s performance and life span. Replacing burnt-out mine equipment will ultimately wind up being far more costly than investing in a correct sound attenuation solution.

There’s also an environmental element to consider here as well. Maintaining mechanical and combustion efficiency will prevent equipment from chewing through petrol and driving down air quality on site.

Environmental and community awareness is increasing scrutiny of industry noise. Sound attenuation is not only important for employer safety, but poor noise control can raise expenditures due to machine replacement, fines, compensation payouts and strict limitations to production schedules.

We offer onsite sound assessing, consultation, custom engineering, installation, servicing, and guaranteed results. Make Minetek part of your sound attenuation strategy and set your site up for success.

Mining companies have an obligation to protect the environment and the communities in which they operate. One way of doing this is by monitoring noise levels from mining operations. Noise level monitoring helps identify and mitigate any potential noise impacts from mining activities. It is important for mining companies to understand how mine noise affects the surrounding community so that any adverse effects can be mitigated. Noise monitoring is not only important for employer safety, it can also raise expenditures due to machine replacement, fines, compensation payouts and strict limitations to production schedules. This article discusses what mine noise level monitoring is, and how it can benefit mining companies and communities.

What is mine noise level monitoring?

The management of noise from mining operations is a fundamental responsibility of mine operators. Noise level monitoring is one method used to assess the potential for hearing loss among workers and to determine whether noise mitigation measures are effective. Solutions such as sound attenuation can allow for extended operating hours, increased productivity and improved work environments.

There are a number of different approaches that can be taken to noise level monitoring, depending on the specific needs of the operation. In general, however, noise level monitors are placed at strategic locations around the mine in order to get a comprehensive understanding of the noise environment. Data from these monitors is then analysed to identify areas of high noise exposure and assess the effectiveness of noise mitigation measures.

Noise level monitoring is an important tool in ensuring the safety and health of workers at mine sites. By identifying areas of high noise exposure, operators can take steps to reduce noise levels and protect workers from potential hearing damage. Sound levels below 85 dBA are considered safe noise level exposure levels. If you are exposed to sound levels at 85 dBA or more for prolonged periods of time, it can cause permanent damage to your hearing. Operator noise exposure testing can help prevent potential hearing damage to machine operators by ensuring safe noise levels are met.

What are the benefits of noise level monitoring?

There are a number of potential benefits that noise level monitoring can bring to both mining companies and the communities in which they operate. For mining companies, noise level monitoring can help to identify areas where noise levels are becoming a problem. This information can then be used to implement mitigating measures, such as installing sound-proofing barriers or attenuating your mining machinery. Noise level monitoring can help mining companies assess the effectiveness of these measures over time.

For communities, noise level monitoring can provide valuable data on the level of noise pollution they are being exposed to. This information can be used to pressure mining companies to take action to reduce noise levels and meet noise level compliance. In addition, it can also be used to inform local residents about the need to take precautions against excessive noise exposure. Ultimately, noise level monitoring has the potential to bring significant benefits to both mining companies and the communities in which they operate.

Noise mitigation solutions

Minetek offers a wide range of services to optimise the noise output from your machine. We analyse and measure both sound power, or how much acoustic energy is produced by one source (elevator bell), as well as intensity measurements. This enables us to capture the sound intensity measurement of the source without noisy operating conditions impacting our sound testing data.

By pinpointing key noise sources, we are able to strategically focus on specific machine parts to help reduce overall noise levels through sound attenuation. Sound attenuation helps to mitigate noise issues and reap the immediate rewards of the reduced machine sound output without economic loss of downtime or fines. Minetek can help sites assess all elements of sound suppression and embed sound as a key consideration in all safety and environmental initiatives.

Minetek is committed to helping our clients reduce noise levels and create a more safe and comfortable work environment. We offer a variety of services to meet your needs, including onsite sound assessing, consultation, custom engineering, installation, and servicing. Our team has extensive experience working in the mining industry and is dedicated to providing guaranteed results.

Most people generally think of sound and noise as being the same thing. However, there is actually a big difference between noise vs sound. Son is a type of energy that travels through the air, or any other medium, and is then heard when it reaches a person’s ear. Whereas noise can be described as an unwanted sound. It is intrusive and can be disruptive or potentially even dangerous.

What is the difference between sound and noise?

Sound is the outcome of vibrating air in the surroundings. Vibration moves through the air, creating different air pressure levels (high and low) by air compression and decompression. The varying pressure levels travel across the air known as sound waves, these are responsible for creating a sound.

Noise, on the other hand, is a type of sound. Usually, the sound levels are remarkably loud and intermittent. Take a scream as an example of noise, characterised by its unpleasantness and annoying nature.

There are two main types of noise: continuous and intermittent. Continuous noise is referred to as a constant sound, like the hum of a fan or the sound of traffic. Whereas intermittent noise is a sound that occurs sporadically, like a car horn or an explosion.

How do we measure sound?

Sound levels are measured in decibels (dB), one way to measure these levels is with a sound meter. This device has a microphone connected to an electronic circuit and display. It picks up the amount that air particles are being “pushed around,” which we perceive as sound. These pressures are then translated to electrical signals and displayed as the sound level in decibels (dB).

At Minetek we offer both sound power testing and sound intensity. Sound intensity testing provides operators with an in-depth understanding of machine noise behaviour. We analyse the flow of acoustic energy produced by a single source, such as a specific mining truck, excavator or machine. This enables us to capture the sound intensity measurement of the source without noisy operating conditions impacting our sound testing data.

What sound levels are considered safe?

Ensure that your employees’ hearing is not at risk with excessive sound levels at work. Sound levels below 85 dB are considered safe for workers to be exposed to this level of noise. If you are exposed to sound levels at 85 dB or more for prolonged periods of time, it can cause permanent damage to your hearing.

The louder the sound, the more quickly it can cause damage. For example, listening to a mining truck, loader or digger at 85 dB for 8 hours will cause permanent damage. In comparison, a mining machine operating at a 100 dB noise level can cause permanent damage in only 15 minutes.

Ensure that your employees’ hearing is not at risk with excessive sound levels at work. Sound levels below 85 dB are considered safe for workers to be exposed to this level of noise. If you are exposed to sound levels at 85 dB or more for prolonged periods of time, it can cause permanent damage to your hearing. The louder the sound, the more quickly it can cause damage. For example, listening to a mining truck, loader or digger at 85 dB for 8 hours will cause permanent damage. Whereas, a mining machine operating at a 100 dB noise level can cause permanent damage in only 15 minutes.

What are the health impacts of noise?

Noise can have a significant impact on our health, both physically and mentally. Excessive noise can induce severe cardiovascular symptoms of increased heart rate. It can also emphasise psychological effects such as anxiety, profound nervousness and lack of concentration. Some of the ways noise can affect humans include:

• • causing increased stress

• • increasing heart rate

• • sweating

• • difficulty sleeping

• • irritability

• • anxiety

• • hearing loss

The most common health problem caused by noise is hearing loss. Exposure to loud noise can damage the delicate cells in our ears, resulting in Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). NIHL can be gradual and painless, making it difficult to notice at first. Over time, it can lead to a permanent loss of hearing.

Industrial noise pollution control​

When it comes to industrial noise pollution control, Minetek has proven experience in the design & implementation of turn-key solutions which are proven to be effective in reducing noise in industrial settings. With over 150 years of combined project experience, our team has delivered over 2,800 solutions across more than 60 countries, enabling industrial operators to meet their noise control objectives.

Noise control allows for extended operating hours, increased productivity, significant reductions in lead times, and improved work environments. Minetek has the capabilities in acoustic design & engineering for health, defence, marine, emergency and mission-critical applications. With proven results in the power generation and standby power markets, our experience is unmatched. With full ISO:9001 accreditation and 150 years of project delivery experience, Minetek has the capability to meet any industrial sound or emission management objectives.

Speak to our team about your goals today and we will provide you with solutions that match your specific needs. Leave your details below to learn more.

Mining equipment and machinery like haul trucks, excavators and dozers are fundamental to mining operations. Large mining excavators are used as earthmovers to extract the materials, whereas mining haul trucks transport ore to the processing area and remove overburden and waste from the mine site. Although mining trucks and equipment are essential for the mines operation, this machinery is inherently noisy and emits noise pollution.

Major Sources Of Noise On Mining Machinery & Equipment

One of the biggest challenges when it comes to diesel mining trucks and equipment is reducing the machines noise output. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to permanent and irreversible hearing damage, known as Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHS) [2]. Noise control strategies are determined by noise exposure levels are in place to protect workers hearing and reduce machinery downtime. Controls may include; PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as ear mufflers, exhaust silencers and mufflers, sound attenuation solutions, and enclosed cabins.

The main contributors to mining truck and equipment noise include a variety of components, such as;

• Radiator
• Fans
• Hydraulic pump(s)
• Engine
• Exhaust

Radiators, engines, exhausts fans and hydraulic pumps on mining trucks and machinery emit both high and low-frequency sounds. The frequency of these sounds reflects the intensity and distance they travel. The standard measure of frequency is in Hertz (Hz), this calculates the number of times that a sound wave or vibration occurs or repeats itself in a specified time, typically 1 second cycles per second.

According to Australia’s Environmental Protection Authority, low-frequency noise ranges between 10 – 160 Hertz (Hz) and is typically background noise [1]. Low-frequency noises consist of fewer sound waves and typically travel a long distance. High-frequency noises are typically high-pitched, measuring above 2000 Hz with high sound intensity. Low-frequency sounds tend to impact local mining communities and compliance due to the long distances they travel. Whereas high-frequency sounds between 4000-6000Hz pose a risk to hearing within the noise source’s vicinity [2].

These components are typically located within engine compartment, however the precise component generating noise is difficult to determine. Through Minetek’s innovative acoustic visualisation technology, we are able determine the primary source of noise and the noise frequency.

How To Determine The Main Sources Of Noise

Minetek understands that excessive noise can be a complex problem for mine sites to solve. That is why we utilise innovative sound technology to accurately identify the primary source of noise on mining trucks, equipment, and machinery.

This technology creates a graphical acoustic representation of sound to detect and visualise airborne acoustic energy, creating high-contrast images that show areas of excessive noise. The acoustic visualiser backs up traditional sound microphone testing with a detailed and accurate analysis. This definitive analysis removes any assumptions, ensuring an accurate application of the appropriate sound solution.

Equipped with this data, Minetek can efficiently implement strategies to reduce sounds emitted from trucks or machinery. We enable mine sites to achieve the required operating objectives / sound levels, protecting both mining truck operators & nearby communities from excessive noise whilst meeting and maintaining compliance. In some circumstances, installing sound or acoustic barriers may be enough to address the issue. However, this method does not eliminate noise it just reduces sound levels. An in-depth approach may be necessary to effectively reduce noise levels such as attenuating equipment or changing operating procedures.

Improved accuracy, efficiency, and safety are some of the key benefits of utilising a sound visualiser during your mine site noise analysis, including. This innovative sound testing technology enables our team to quickly identify problem areas and develop customised solution that meets the specific needs of your operation. This results in reduced machinery downtime, employee protection from NIHS and environmental compliance whilst meeting noise limit restrictions. Noise limit breaches in NSW Australia are upwards of $15,000 per breach, depending on the limit of noise exceeded [5].

How To Treat Noise Sources On Mining Equipment

Noise propagation is one solution to reducing noise levels. This is achieved by blocking the sound waves from travelling, such as using acoustic barriers and enclosures surrounding the mining site to block noise. While this may have some limited benefits to local communities, it does not treat the source of noise and has minimal impact on overall sound levels. Depending on the elevation / topography of the mine site, a sound wave can simply bounce over the acoustic barrier. The most effective, successful, and accurate way to treat noise directly at the source.

There are four main ways to treat the noise source;

1. Blocking sound waves

2. Absorbing sound waves

3. Reactive frequency interactions to dampen noise

4. Isolating sound waves

Another solution to treating noise sources is though sound attenuation. Sound attenuation absorbs or interrupts the sound waves, diminishing the noise output and distance it travels. There are many benefits to having a sound attenuation strategy in place for your mining operation.

Excessive noise is not only a disturbance to the local community but can also put your mining operation at risk of regulatory action such as fines or denial of mine expansions. That is why it is important to have a sound attenuation strategy in place to keep meeting and maintaining compliance with minimal operational downtime.

Underground Ventilation Control Systems

Minetek’s High Output Axial Fan system has been designed completely with the underground mining industry in mind. The Mine Air Control (MAC) system is designed to provide the most efficient ventilation for miners working underground. Minetek’s patented Performance on Demand (POD) technology is an innovative approach to optimising performance and reducing power consumption costs for operators. POD enables operators to tailor pressure and power consumption without having to use VSD (Variable Speed Drive) control, providing a more responsive solution. This simplifies the process of controlling output while also increasing overall operational efficiency.

Minetek’s Noise Control Solution

When it comes to NIHL (Noise Induced Hearing Loss) in the mining industry, prevention is critical to ensuring the health and safety of workers. The best protection comes from implementing a comprehensive noise control policy or program that addresses noise at the source and interrupts noise on its path [4]. This benefits the safety of employees whilst ensuring that regulatory noise levels are achieved without needing to shut down operations.

Minetek provides sound assessments, consulting, and customised engineering solutions tailored to meet the requirements of your mine site. Our comprehensive range of solutions are technically engineered to maintain or increase airflow, whilst achieving the desired regulatory noise requirements.

Minetek's OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers) mining packages are engineered to reduce noise levels on mining trucks, excavators, dozers, drills, loaders, and other machinery. Our world-class acoustic engineers have partnered with leading original equipment manufacturers (OEM) to deliver incredible sound reduction levels, with over 1,200+ installations across more than 90+ different OEM models. Minetek’s Sound solutions keep your machinery moving quietly without compromising machine integrity or servicing and operating ability.

Reduce the impact sound has on production, enabling mining companies to achieve true operational excellence. Make Minetek part of your sound strategy by treating major noise sources on mining trucks & machinery. To learn more about our recent sound attenuation projects or case studies, please leave your contact information below. We look forward to helping you achieve a successful sound attenuation strategy.

References

1. Victoria Environmental Protection Authority – https://www.epa.vic.gov.au/for-community/environmental-information/noise/low-frequency-noise
2. Department of Health and Human Services – https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/UserFiles/works/pdfs/2010-111.pdf
3. Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy – https://www.resources.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/240369/qld-guidance-note-22.pdf
4. Government of Western Australia: Department of Mines and Peteroleum – https://dmp.wa.gov.au/Documents/Safety/MSH_G_ManagementNoiseWAMiningOperations.pdf
5. New South Wales Environment Protection Authority – https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/news/media-releases/2021/epamedia210428-night-noise-limit-breach-results-in-$15000-fine-for-hunter-valley-coal-mine

For over three decades, Minetek has been a driving force in the mining industry, renowned for its commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. Minetek has established itself as a leader in developing state-of-the-art noise reduction solutions for mining equipment. These solutions not only reduce noise levels but also play a pivotal role in fostering improved relationships between mine sites and surrounding communities.

Through meticulous engineering and design, Minetek’s team of acoustic and mechanical engineers have developed targeted noise reduction solutions that address the source of the issue. The results are exceptional, with mining machines achieving noise reductions of up to 50%, placing them among the world’s quietest mining machines. This accomplishment represents Minetek’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation within the mining industry.

The effectiveness of Minetek’s noise reduction solutions lies in using advanced technologies and a data-driven approach. By incorporating cutting-edge sensors and measurement tools, we accurately identify and quantify significant noise sources within mining machinery. This detailed analysis enables precise adjustments, targeting the specific complexities of noise generation. Having this extreme level of precision ensures that each noise reduction solution is optimised to meet the unique needs of each mining machine, maximising their performance and minimising noise levels. Our commitment to noise reduction extends beyond the immediate benefits to miners, positively impacting local communities as well. By reducing noise levels, Minetek contributes to the broader goal of environmental sustainability within the mining sector. This approach minimises disruptions to the quality of life for nearby residents and aligns with contemporary standards of corporate responsibility.

Minetek’s sound attenuation solutions in action

Minetek’s collaboration with an Australian Glencore mine is an example of our commitment to addressing the unique challenges mining operations face. While this mine has been a significant economic driver, creating approximately 500 full-time jobs and boosting the local economy, operational noise had generated concerns within the nearby community, leading to complaints from residents.

Minetek was commissioned to design and manufacture a customised Atténuation du son package for the Komatsu 930E-3 and Komatsu 930E-4 Haul Trucks operating at the Glencore mine. This initiative had two primary objectives: ensuring compliance with stringent on-site noise regulations for heavy machinery operation and relieving the impact of noise on nearby communities.

The Sound Attenuation Package comprised various 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

Prior to implementing Minetek’s Sound Attenuation Package, noise levels were measured at 124 dBA. Post-implementation, these levels were significantly reduced to 115 dBA, demonstrating an impressive 9 dBA reduction. This reduction enabled the haul trucks to operate closer to site boundaries while remaining compliant with noise regulations. Following the installation, the client experienced a notable decrease in noise complaints from the local community, allowing for extended operational hours.

The project’s success highlighted Minetek’s ability to develop customised noise reduction solutions tailored to the specific needs of its clients. The Sound Attenuation Package ensured compliance with regulatory standards and demonstrated a commitment to minimising environmental impact on local communities. Our adaptability and technical expertise reinforce our position as a leading provider of effective noise reduction solutions for the mining industry. Beyond the technical aspects, Minetek’s collaboration with the Glencore mine reflects a broader commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices. By effectively addressing noise concerns, we’ve contributed to a work environment that prioritises both operational efficiency and the well-being of local residents. This collaborative effort shows how our team’s innovative solutions are helping to shape a mining industry that balances operational requirements with community harmony.

Minetek’s approach to safer mining practices

Minetek’s unwavering dedication to quieter, safer, and more efficient mining operations has established the company as an industry leader. By integrating cutting-edge technology, extensive experience, and a strong commitment to compliance, our noise reduction solutions are transforming the way mining machinery operates.