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Minetek sound is enabling quieter, safer and more sustainable mining in Latin America

Data di pubblicazione: 21 Maggio 2024

After achieving remarkable success with some of the world’s largest mining companies in Australia, Minetek has expanded its Sound Division into Latin America with a dedicated local support team. This expansion brings innovative solutions that reduce site noise levels by up to 50%, ensuring compliance with regulatory and community sound expectations while preventing costly suspensions of mining operations due to noise concerns. This article explores the pressing challenge of noise pollution in Latin American mining regions, the capabilities of Minetek’s Sound Division, and recent success stories showcasing Minetek’s transformative impact on the industry.

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Environmental & Safety Challenges Of Noise Pollution

In the mineral-rich regions of Latin America, a formidable challenge of environmental and noise pollution stems from mining operations. This persistent issue has prompted complaints from neighbouring communities and led to temporary suspensions of mining activities. These suspensions aim to initiate dialogues with affected residents, government departments, regulatory bodies, and local authorities.

Notable Cases In Latin America

  • Tintaya Copper Mine, Peru: Complaints from nearby communities regarding noise pollution and environmental impacts led to the temporary suspension of operations.
  • Pascua-Lama Gold Mine, Chile, and Argentina: This mine faced suspension due to concerns related to noise, environmental impacts, and water-related issues. Subsequently, it incurred a $16 million fine, and the Chilean Environmental Protection Agency ordered its “total and definitive closure.”
  • El Torno Gold Mine, Bolivia: Protests by local communities and environmental activists disrupted operations, citing significant noise, ecological and community concerns.
  • Conga Gold Mine, Peru: This mine faced scrutiny and opposition due to noise and water pollution issues.

These case studies vividly highlight the intricate balance that must be struck between mining activities and the well-being of surrounding communities. They underscore the importance of implementing effective noise control solutions to ensure the harmonious coexistence of mining operations and neighbouring communities throughout the region.

 

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Enabling A Safer, Quieter Future For Mining In Latin America

Around the world, mining operations face persistent challenges associated with excessive noise levels, posing risks to operator safety, regulatory compliance, and community satisfaction. Minetek’s Sound Division introduces dynamic and adaptable solutions to mitigate noise from mining machinery, including inside the cab and external environmental noise, enhancing safety and promoting environmentally responsible mining practices.

Minetek’s Comprehensive Sound Solutions For Mining Machinery

Minetek’s sound solutions cater to a wide range of models across OEM machinery from industry leaders like Liebherr, Komatsu, Caterpillar, Hitachi, Terex, Sandvik, LeToureneau & Epiroc. These solutions encompass mining trucks, excavators, dozers, loaders, and drills. Minetek is committed to reducing noise without compromising machinery integrity, airflow, or maintenance access.

We have succeeded in reducing noise levels in over 1,800 mining machines spanning more than 90 OEM-approved models worldwide. Our approach involves close collaboration with clients to develop practical noise mitigation solutions aligned with safety, regulatory, and community expectations.

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Case Study Snapshot: Transforming An Australian Open-cut Mine

In a recent project, Minetek lowered the overall site noise of an Australian open-cut mine by more than 50%, enabling round-the-clock site operation while meeting stringent regulatory noise level restrictions. As a result, the mine site doubled its production levels, extracting an additional 2.1 million tonnes of coal, valued at over $352.3 million. Download and access the full case study here.

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Empowering Mining Operations To Maintain Noise And Environmental Compliance

Minetek’s Sound Division empowers mining operations to mitigate safety risks, achieve regulatory noise compliance, and foster positive relationships with local communities. This proactive approach reduces shutdowns and decreases the risk of short- and long-term suspensions of mining operations.

As Latin American mining regions grapple with noise pollution challenges, Minetek’s Sound Division arrives as a beacon of hope, offering innovative noise control solutions that benefit operators, regulatory compliance, and the well-being of neighbouring communities. With a track record of success and a commitment to a quieter, safer future, Minetek’s Sound Division is revolutionising how mining operations manage and mitigate noise in the region.

For more information about Minetek’s Sound Division and its groundbreaking solutions, please contattateci.

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Esplorare l'escavatore Komatsu PC7000

Data di pubblicazione: 21 Maggio 2024

Il Komatsu PC7000 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.

Armed with powerful lifting arms and huge buckets with large capacities, Komatsu mining excavators can excavate vast amounts of materials. Operating at 676 – 694 tonnes / 1,490,600 – 1,530,300 lb it has a shovel capacity of 36 m3 / 47 yd3. Mining excavators are one of the most crucial pieces of equipment due to their versatility, manoeuvrability, and multi-functionality.

Komatsu’s PC7000 model includes an advanced operator cab that protects the operator from dust and noise while offering excellent visibility even in the harshest mining conditions. Furthermore, Komatsu’s onboard computer system offers real-time diagnostics and monitoring, making it easy to identify potential problems before they become significant. With its powerful and environmentally friendly engine, sophisticated hydraulics and comprehensive onboard computer systems, the Komatsu PC7000 mining machine is a reliable choice for any mine site or industrial-scale excavation job.

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Sound reduction solution for mines

High noise levels and unwanted sound pose a severe challenge to the operational efficiency of mine sites. Reducing the noise emitted by Komatsu’s PC7000 mining excavator can assist with increased operating hours, resource recovery, carbon emissions, operational efficiency, and stakeholder satisfaction. An NSW Hunter Valley mine had strict noise restrictions imposed by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) due to nearby communities and environmental factors. This mine site had to adhere to a maximum on site noise level of 116 dBA, with noise monitoring in place using sound receivers strategically placed around the boundary of the mine. By identifying areas of high noise exposure, operators can actively take the appropriate steps to reduce on site noise levels. When introducing the Komatsu PC7000 mining excavator it was identified this would be a major source of noise for this Hunter Valley Mine, if it was to operate at a sound level of 127 dBA.

There would be limited operability of the Komatsu PC7000 excavator which would impact production and operational efficiency. Sound reduction solutions was required to achieve desired production targets whilst maintaining compliance with strict noise restrictions. This Hunter Valley mine engaged with Minetek to help assist with their on-site noise challenges.

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Komatsu PC7000 sound solution

Minetek was commissioned to design and manufacture Australia’s first turn-key sound attenuation solution for the Komatsu PC7000 mining excavator. This solution was designed to meet noise limitations of 116 dBA in the NSW Hunter Valley mining region. Minetek’s sound solution for the PC7000 mining excavator was specifically engineered and designed to Komatsu’s OEM specifications without compromising machine integrity, airflow, maintenance, and access ability. This attenuazione del suono 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.

Minetek sound testing helped pinpoint key noise sources, enabling us to strategically focus on key areas and machine parts to help reduce overall noise levels through sound attenuation. Before attenuation, the PC7000 mining excavator had a factory sound power level of 127 dBA, which is 11 dBA above site noise restrictions. After installing Minetek’s Sound Attenuation package, the Komatsu PC7000 operated at a low noise output of 116 dBA, reducing noise levels by 11 dBA.

Assuming ideal weather conditions (no temperature inversion later, no wind, fog etc.) and hemispherical radiation (Q=2), the Komatsu PC7000 would only be able to operate at a distance of 3,981m (to the receiver / mine boundary) at the pre-attenuation noise level. This would pose significant logistical challenges for this Hunter Valley Mine and would impact operational efficiency.

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With Minetek’s sound attenuation solutions installed, Komatsu’s PC7000 mining excavator can now operate more than < 50% closer to the sound receiver / site boundary 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.

Minetek has been a key partner to the mining industry for over 30 years now, with extensive experience in noise attenuation solutions across Australia and around the world. Minetek reduces 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 through sound attenuation. 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 and maintain noise compliance.

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Esplorazione del carrello elevatore Caterpillar 775G

Data di pubblicazione: 21 Maggio 2024

Il dumper Caterpillar 775G è ampiamente utilizzato nei cantieri minerari di tutto il mondo. Costruito con un motore diesel Caterpillar C27, il Cat 775G ha una migliore efficienza dei consumi ed emette fino a 9% in meno di emissioni di CO2 rispetto al modello 775F.

Questo dumper fuoristrada ad alte prestazioni funziona a 121dBA (non attenuato) con velocità maggiori e controllo della trazione potenziato. La riduzione della rumorosità dinamica della macchina consente un funzionamento più efficace del Cat 775G, favorendo l'aumento delle ore di funzionamento, il recupero delle risorse, le emissioni di carbonio e la soddisfazione delle parti interessate.

Minetek è stata incaricata di progettare e produrre un impianto chiavi in mano. soluzione per l'attenuazione del suono per il Bruco 775G. L'obiettivo di questo progetto era quello di ridurre la rumorosità operativa della macchina fino al livello di rumore rigoroso della miniera, senza compromettere la sua capacità operativa o aggiungere peso in eccesso alla macchina. Questo riduzione del suono La soluzione è stata progettata anche per garantire un facile accesso per la manutenzione e l'assistenza ordinaria.

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Riduzione del rumore delle macchine Caterpillar

Test del suono ha determinato che il Cat 775G emette un livello di potenza sonora (SWL) di 121dBA. Assumendo condizioni meteorologiche ideali (nessuna inversione di temperatura, assenza di vento, nebbia, ecc.) e una radiazione emisferica (Q=2), questa macchina può ora operare a una distanza di 3000 m dal ricevitore, a questo livello di rumore. Con l'installazione del pacchetto di attenuazione acustica "chiavi in mano" di Minetek, il Caterpillar 775G opera ora a un livello di rumore incredibilmente basso, pari a 113dBA.

Questa riduzione del suono di 8dBA consente al Caterpillar 775G di operare >50% più vicino al ricevitore del suono a una distanza di 1512m. Le soluzioni Minetek per l'attenuazione del suono rappresentano un punto di riferimento per il settore e la soppressione del rumore alla fonte è ormai la prassi migliore.

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Minetek è riconosciuta a livello internazionale dagli OEM e dagli operatori del settore minerario come produttore delle macchine da miniera più silenziose al mondo. Le nostre soluzioni di attenuazione del suono sono progettate per mantenere la produttività e ridurre al minimo l'impatto sugli operatori e sulle squadre di manutenzione. I kit modulari di soppressione del suono di Minetek sono disponibili per camion da miniera, escavatori, apripista, pale e trivelle, con squadre di installazione certificate disponibili in tutto il mondo.

Per saperne di più sui nostri recenti attenuazione del suono progetti e riduzione del rumore casi di studio per le macchine da miniera. Scoprite come aumentare le ore di funzionamento e ridurre i livelli sonori lasciando i vostri dati qui sotto.

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Minetek’s noise reduction solution at open-cut coal mine

Data di pubblicazione: 21 Maggio 2024

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.

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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 Attenuazione del suono 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

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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.

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Noise management for Australian mine sites

Data di pubblicazione: 23 aprile 2024

Nel industria mineraria, regulations and compliance are of utmost importance. These regulations are enforceable, and breaches can result in fines, prosecution or direction to cease operations and undertake remedial action. Therefore, it’s crucial for mining companies to effectively manage noise in order to minimise and prevent the adverse repercussions.

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Noise Control Standards, Acts & Guidelines In Australia

Noise can come from a whole host of sources across a mining site. From the processing plants, machinery, traffic, and blasting, noise is often an unavoidable part of life on a mine site. While some levels of inquinamento acustico can’t be avoided, proper planning and foresight can help to minimise its impacts. There are a number of reasons why noise control on a mine site simply cannot be neglected. First and foremost, it is essential to note that an effective noise control strategy on a mine site is required by law. Just as with the construction industry, noise must be carefully managed and kept to a minimum so as to not disrupt surrounding communities and animal populations.

In Australia, it is explicitly stated in the Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994 that employers have a responsibility to provide a working environment that is free from as many hazards as practicable [1]. This includes the hazard of noise and the prevention of noise-induced hearing loss. EPA and several other government regulators also have a role in managing noise and its impacts in Australia. The EPA regulates the mining industry through Environment Protection Licences, which set limit, operating, monitoring and reporting requirements.

Following government guidelines on mining operations in Western Australia, is a regulatory requirement for action to be taken when workers are exposed to either of these two criteria:

  1. An average noise level of more than 85 dBA for an eight-hour working day
  1. A peak noise level higher than 140 dBA

There are also more specific regulatory requirements for noise control, emphasising the need for engineering controls to reduce noise, specifically the Mines and Safety Inspection Regulations 1995. The MSIR states that all mining sites must be monitored regularly for sound levels, placing a strong emphasis on engineering controls that can reduce sound levels or eliminate them entirely [2]. These regulations mean noise control should begin at the source by substituting processes or machinery. Currently, there is a heavy reliance on hearing protectors, such as PPE, which are not as effective as sound attenuation when managing noise pollution.

Typical Mine Site Noise Levels

Attrezzature per l'estrazione mineraria Sound level (dBA)
Rotary drills 73 – 100
Percussion drills 102 – 120
Haul trucks 84 – 109
Electric shovels 75 – 90
Crawler tractors 95 – 105
Front end loaders 93 – 105
Graders 85 – 100
Coal augers 90 – 99

Source: Management of noise in Western Australia mining operations

How Is Noise Monitored On Australian Mine Sites?

Australian mines have stringent regulations for managing noise on mining sites. Regular and accurate noise monitoring is crucial to ensure legal compliance and avoid penalties. There are two main ways of monitoring noise on a mining site;

  1. Attended noise monitoring

This typically occurs on a monthly basis, with key personnel monitoring and measuring specific mining activities to accurately determine their contribution to the overall noise level.  Attended noise monitoring is key in determining whether noise levels are in compliance with ongoing regulations.

  1. Continuous unattended noise monitoring

In many mining operations, sound level meters are placed at certain receiver points to capture noise information and assess site noise levels continuously. This is a general requirement for mine sites, as these systems provide an accurate representation of the noise environment.

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Noise Management Plan

Unmanaged noise pollution can have a variety of adverse effects on the environment and local communities. That’s why it is essential for mining companies to understand why noise mitigation and management is so important and how they can take steps to reduce the amount of noise generated by their operations. By implementing effective strategies to reduce sound levels generated by their operations, mining companies can ensure that they are doing their part to protect the environment and their employees from unnecessary harm caused by excessive sound pollution.

Regulatory Noise Management

Similar to the construction industry, there are regulatory measures set in place by the government to ensure that noise is carefully controlled. Before any prospective mining operation begins, the expected noise outputs will have to be reported as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which then determines the viability of the mining project.

Il Agenzia per la protezione dell'ambiente (EPA) regulates all aspects of mining operations, from exploration to closure. Mining companies must comply with a range of environmental regulations, such as those pertaining to air quality, water quality, soil contamination, habitat protection, and, in this case, noise pollution [3]. Mining companies must ensure that they comply with all relevant local and national noise regulations when operating an existing mine. This includes completing any required paperwork or notifications as well as regularly monitoring SPL levels in accordance with government guidelines. Non-compliance with these regulations could result in costly penalties and reputational damage for your business; therefore, you must stay up-to-date on any changes or updates regarding applicable laws pertaining to your operations [3].

Safety of Workers

There is a multitude of safety hazards posed to miners as a result of prolonged noise exposure. High noise levels can interfere with concentration and communication between miners. This can prove fatal if workers cannot hear warning signs above the high noise level of the workplace. It can also lead to permanent hearing loss, persistent noise stress, fatigue, and reduced quality of life.

Employers and management have a duty of care to provide workers with a mining workplace that is as free from hazards as possible, including noise hazards. When they fail to do so, the subsequent health hazards caused to their workers can have negative economic consequences.

Impacts on the Larger Community

Community compliance is an important part of any mining operation. Mines need to work with the local community to ensure their environmental and safety regulations are met, as both communities and mining operations are reliant on one another. Mines need to work with communities to ensure levels are met and avoid costly fines and reputational damage, while mine expansions are unlikely to be approved if they don’t meet noise levels and nearby communities complain. Conversely, local communities rely on mining operations for jobs and investment. Communities and mining operations need to support one another in order to stay operational.

Australian wildlife will also be adversely affected by high noise levels. Besides having physical effects on their ability to navigate or hunt, it can also lead to the forced migration of species, causing an imbalance in the greater ecosystem.

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Reduce Noise Levels With Sound Attenuation

Sound attenuation is an effective noise control technique used to reduce sound by absorption. Sound energy is transferred into heat, thus resulting in the medium used for sound attenuation getting warm. By integrating sound attenuation into mining equipment and machinery, the noise levels of mining sites can be reduced.

Minetek offers a range of attenuazione del suono packages and noise management solutions that are specifically engineered for your machinery and can tackle high noise levels at the source. Contattateci to find out how Minetek can help your noise management needs.

References

  1. Department of Mines and Petroleum – https://www.dmp.wa.gov.au/Documents/Safety/MSH_G_ManagementNoiseWAMiningOperations.pdf
  2. Government of Western Australia – https://www.legislation.wa.gov.au/legislation/former/regs.nsf/(DownloadFiles)/Mines+Safety+and+Inspection+Regulations+1995.pdf/$file/Mines+Safety+and+Inspection+Regulations+1995.pdf
  3. NSW Environmental Protection Authority – https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/
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Grandi macchine e attrezzature per l'industria mineraria

Data di pubblicazione: 23 aprile 2024

Gli Stati Uniti, con le loro vaste riserve di minerali e terre rare, sono leader a livello mondiale nel settore minerario e favoriscono la crescita economica e l'innovazione. Essendo uno dei principali Paesi estrattori al mondo, nel 2024 il settore rappresenterà $194,4 miliardi di PIL, dando lavoro a 1,31 milioni di persone in tutto il Paese e contribuendo all'attività economica in ogni Stato degli USA.

Mentre il settore si occupa della produzione, dell'investimento e del commercio dei metalli, l'attività mineraria in sé si riferisce spesso all'estrazione di metalli e minerali preziosi dal terreno. A tal fine, i siti richiedono una serie di macchinari e attrezzature minerarie di grandi dimensioni.

Per massimizzare la produttività dei siti minerari statunitensi, è essenziale disporre di attrezzature ad alte prestazioni. I principali OEM come Caterpillar, Liebherr, Komatsu, e Hitachi forniscono macchinari specializzati su misura per l'industria mineraria. Questo articolo esplora le principali attrezzature minerarie utilizzate negli Stati Uniti e a livello globale, evidenziando le soluzioni per migliorare la conformità e l'efficienza.

1. Escavatori

Gli escavatori da miniera sono utilizzati per scavare materie prime e sono particolarmente utili per l'estrazione in superficie. Dotate di potenti bracci di sollevamento e di enormi benne di grande capacità, queste macchine sono in grado di scavare enormi quantità di materiali. Sono una delle attrezzature più importanti per la loro versatilità, manovrabilità e multifunzionalità. Gli escavatori sono in grado di eseguire operazioni con errori minimi e sono molto più efficienti del lavoro manuale, riducendo così la necessità di manodopera umana e aumentando la redditività.

Uno dei più grandi escavatori da miniera al mondo è il Liebherr R9800che può movimentare fino a 84.000 tonnellate di terra e roccia al giorno. Altri escavatori di grandi dimensioni sono l'EX8000-6 di Hitachi e il PC8000-6 di Komatsu.

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2. Dumper

I dumper, noti anche come autocarri di trasporto o ribaltabili, sono ampiamente utilizzati nell'industria mineraria per la movimentazione di materiali pesanti. Questi autocarri sono utilizzati nei siti minerari per il trasporto di materiali e minerali estratti e sono dotati di un cassone aperto incernierato sul retro, che può essere utilizzato per la movimentazione e lo scarico dei materiali.

I dumper sono costruiti per operare in condizioni di lavoro difficili, con pneumatici di grandi dimensioni in grado di sostenere i carichi pesanti su terreni irregolari e ampi pianali in grado di trasportare un'ampia gamma di materiali. I dumper aumentano l'efficienza trasportando in modo facile ed efficiente i materiali nei siti minerari secondo le necessità.

Alcuni modelli di macchine da miniera e di dumper molto diffusi sono il Caterpillar 793 o il Caterpillar 793. Caterpillar 775G, il Liebherr T 284 e il Komatsu 960 E-1.

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3. Apripista

Un bulldozer è un trattore dotato di una pesante lama per spingere e scavare terra e detriti nelle miniere. Lo squarcio con un bulldozer è diventato un metodo popolare per allentare il terreno quando non è possibile ricorrere ai brillamenti, il che è particolarmente importante con l'introduzione da parte delle autorità locali di restrizioni sulle operazioni di brillamento troppo vicine ai centri abitati. Lo scavo con un potente bulldozer è anche molto più economico di un'operazione combinata di perforazione e brillamento.

I bulldozer più comuni nel settore minerario sono i dozer a ruote e i dozer cingolati. Gli apripista cingolati sono in genere i bulldozer preferiti da molti siti minerari, grazie al loro rapporto peso/potenza che consente di spingere carichi di grandi dimensioni. Tuttavia, i dozer gommati sono diventati sempre più popolari, in quanto la loro velocità e versatilità li rende più facili da manovrare rapidamente nei siti minerari.

Il più grande apripista attualmente in produzione è il Komatsu D575A-3SD, ma altri apripista di grandi dimensioni molto diffusi sono il Caterpillar D11T e il nuovo arrivato, il Komatsu D475A-8. Per quanto riguarda i dozer idrostatici, il più grande è il Liebherr PR 776.

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4. Pale gommate

Le pale gommate sono attrezzature pesanti in grado di sollevare praticamente qualsiasi cosa, come detriti, ghiaia, terra, sporcizia, pallet e altro ancora. Oltre che per il movimento terra, le pale gommate sono attrezzature estrattive versatili che possono essere utilizzate in diverse applicazioni, come il caricamento di materiali su camion o altri macchinari per il trasporto.

Nel settore minerario, le pale gommate sono un'attrezzatura affidabile. Il lavoro di trasporto viene svolto azionando la benna, solitamente situata nella parte anteriore, ma talvolta anche in quella posteriore del veicolo. La benna può muoversi verso l'alto e verso il basso, a seconda delle esigenze. Sebbene le capacità differiscano a seconda delle classi, le pale gommate hanno generalmente capacità elevate e, rispetto a un escavatore, sono più facili da utilizzare, grazie alla maggiore mobilità di quest'ultimo.

Le pale gommate Caterpillar sono le più popolari nell'industria mineraria, con un'ampia gamma di pale compatte, piccole, medie e grandi. Particolarmente rinomati sono i modelli Caterpillar 966E e Komatsu WA1200-6.

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5. Impianti di perforazione

Gli impianti di perforazione sono comunemente utilizzati nei siti minerari per praticare fori nella roccia o nel terreno. Nell'estrazione mineraria di superficie, i fori vengono solitamente praticati per il posizionamento di esplosivi, in modo che i minerali vicini alla superficie terrestre possano essere rimossi e trasportati alle raffinerie per l'estrazione dei minerali.

Le trivelle rotanti sono le più versatili ed efficaci. Il loro design modulare e leggero rende gli impianti di perforazione facili da installare e da spostare, consentendo una maggiore flessibilità operativa. Rispetto alle trivelle tradizionali, un impianto di perforazione rotante ha una coppia elevata e può regolarsi automaticamente in base agli strati. Sono molto più veloci di altre trivelle presenti sul mercato: raggiungono le 10 miglia orarie in terra e sabbia e le 6 miglia orarie in terreni argillosi (3-5 volte più veloci delle trivelle tradizionali).

La trivella Komatsu 77XR è stata introdotta di recente, nel 2016, ed è stata progettata per la perforazione a bocca di lupo di una serie di materiali, dal carbone alla roccia dura.

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6. Camion dell'acqua

I camion dell'acqua sono fondamentali per le operazioni minerarie, in quanto contribuiscono alla soppressione delle polveri e persino al controllo degli incendi. Un camion dell'acqua è necessario nella maggior parte dei siti minerari a causa dei vari rischi per la sicurezza e la salute che le particelle di polvere respirabile comportano. L'eccesso di polvere può causare gravi problemi di salute ai minatori, come la pneumoconiosi (CWP), una malattia polmonare potenzialmente invalidante. La polvere può anche avere un impatto sulla produttività dei siti quando i lavoratori non riescono a vedere chiaramente attraverso le nuvole di polvere. Inoltre, le emissioni di polvere hanno molti impatti negativi sull'ambiente.

Il nuovo camion 777G Water Solutions di Caterpillar mira a risolvere i problemi di irrigazione eccessiva e di sommersione, affrontando al contempo il tema della sostenibilità.

L'importanza di un'efficiente attrezzatura mineraria di grandi dimensioni

Questa gamma di macchine e attrezzature per l'estrazione mineraria viene utilizzata per garantire l'efficienza e il successo delle operazioni in tutto il mondo. Tuttavia, un problema comune a questi macchinari pesanti è il livello di rumore che ne deriva. L'inquinamento acustico emesso da queste macchine rumorose può essere pericoloso e dannoso per la salute dei lavoratori.

Specializzata in attrezzature come camion, scavatrici, escavatori, trivelle, caricatori, apripista e altro ancora, Minetek Sound ha attenuato oltre 1.500 macchine da miniera su più di 90 modelli diversi approvati dagli OEM. È stato dimostrato che le nostre soluzioni riducono i livelli di rumorosità dei macchinari minerari fino a 50%, consentendo alle operazioni minerarie di ridurre l'impatto potenzialmente dannoso sulla sicurezza degli operatori e di soddisfare le aspettative normative e comunitarie in materia di rumore.

Riconosciuta a livello mondiale come fornitore di soluzioni innovative e tecnologiche, Minetek vanta oltre 30 anni di esperienza nella fornitura di sistemi audio, acqua, e aria alle società minerarie di tutto il mondo. Le nostre soluzioni di attenuazione del suono assicurano che i grandi macchinari mobili soddisfino tutte le leggi di conformità, facendo risparmiare agli operatori notevoli somme di denaro.

Il team di Minetek è fiducioso e pronto a fornire soluzioni che soddisfino le vostre esigenze. Contattateci per saperne di più sui nostri pacchetti di riduzione del rumore dei macchinari.

Torna a notizie e approfondimenti

Estensione della redditività della miniera grazie all'attenuazione del suono

Data di pubblicazione: 23 aprile 2024

Extending mine viability through sound attenuation.

Queensland-based New Acland mine faced pressure to meet strict noise requirements, impacting operating hours and overall profitability. Our sound attenuation solutions helped to meet and exceed these difficult requirements.

Minetek has supported New Acland through this journey, allowing operations to run sustainably both day and night through the life of the mine. The video explores the decade-long journey which has delivered reduced noise output, increased availability and improved profitability for the open-cut coal operation.

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