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Hunter Valley Coal Mine – Komatsu PC 7000

Turn-key sound attenuation solution to reduce Komatsu PC 7000 excavator noise at a Hunter Valley coal mine.

The Komatsu PC 7000 mining machine is a large-scale heavy-duty excavator used for industrial-level mining operations. This diesel machine has two powerful 1,250 kW / 1,675 HP engines with enhanced management, adjustable idle shutdown and improved hydraulic efficiency. Operating at 676 – 694 tonnes / 1,490,600 1,530,300 lb and a shovel capacity of 36 m3 / 47 yd3. the Komatsu PC 7000 also includes an advanced operator cab that protects from dust and noise while offering excellent visibility even in the harshest mining conditions. Furthermore, the onboard computer system offers real-time diagnostics and monitoring, making it easy to identify potential problems before they become significant. With its powerful engine, sophisticated hydraulics and comprehensive onboard computer systems, the Komatsu PC 7000 mining machine is a reliable choice for any mine site or industrial-scale excavation job.

Industry – Miniere
Mine type – Open-sut
Mineral – Coal
Location – Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia
Product/Scope – Sound attenuation on Komatsu PC 7000 Excavator

Brief

Minetek were commissioned to design manufacture the first sound attenuation package in the world for the Liebherr R9800 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

Reducing the machine noise emitted by Komatsu's PC 7000 can assist with increased operating hours, resource recovery, carbon emissions and stakeholder satisfaction. Minetek was commissioned to design and manufacture Australia's first turn-key sound attenuation solution for the Komatsu PC 7000 mining excavator. This solution was specific to the NSW Hunter Valley mining region with strict noise limitations of 116dBA to adhere to. This project aimed to reduce machine operating noise down to the site noise level of 116dBA, allowing operations to continue whilst meeting community and environmental guidelines.

Solution

Minetek's PC 7000 sound solution was specifically engineered and designed to Komatsu's OEM specifications without compromising machine integrity, airflow, maintenance and access ability. The Komatsu PC 7000 has a factory Sound Power Level (SWL) of 127dBA. Assuming ideal weather conditions (no temperature inversion later, no wind, fog etc.) and hemispherical radiation (Q=2), this machine can operate at a distance of 3,981m (to the receiver) at this noise level. With Minetek's sound attenuation solutions installed, the Komatsu PC 7000 operates at a meagre noise output of 116 dBA. This 11 dBA sound reduction enables the PC 7000 mining excavator to operate < 50% closer to the sound receiver at a distance of 281.8m. Minetek's sound attenuation solutions set an industry benchmark, and noise suppression at the source is now best practice.

Pre attenuation

127 dBA

The Komatsu PC 7000 registered a factory sound frequency level of 127dBA prior to Minetek Sound Attenuation.

Post attenuation

116 dBA

The sound output of the Komatsu PC 7000 was tested after installing Minetek’s turn-key sound attention package. This registered a sound frequency level of 116dBA.

Sound reduction

11 dBA

Minetek was able to reduce the sound output on the Komatsu PC 7000 mining excavator by 11dBA.

This machine can now operate

>50% 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)