Darling Downs Coal Mine – Hitachi EX5600-7 Sound Attenuation

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Turn-key M-STEALTH™ sound attenuation package to reduce noise output of the Hitachi EX5600 7 Excavator

The Hitachi EX5600 7, a large-scale hydraulic excavator, is designed for demanding mining operations. Advanced management systems and optimized fuel efficiency drive this machine. Its operating weight ranges from 544,000 kg / 1,199,315 lb for the loading shovel configuration to 549,000 kg / 1,210,338 lb for the backhoe. With a bucket capacity of 34 m³ (44.5 yd³), the operator cab protects users from dust and noise, delivering superior visibility in challenging mining environments. Onboard systems enable real-time diagnostics and monitoring, allowing operators to identify potential issues proactively. Robust engines, advanced hydraulics, and comprehensive monitoring capabilities make the Hitachi EX5600 7 excavator a dependable solution for large-scale mining excavation tasks.

Operating near a noise-sensitive community, this mine required a solution to mitigate noise emissions from its Hitachi EX5600 7 excavator without compromising operational performance. Using our M-STEALTH™ Sound Package, we reduced noise levels from 129 dB / 120 dB(A) to 123 dB / 114 dB(A), enabling compliant operation by maintaining sound noise levels on site below 42 decibels during daylight hours, and even lower at night.

Industry – Mining
Mine type – Open-cut
Mineral – Coal
Location – Darling Downs, Queensland, Australia
Product/Scope – Turn-key M-STEALTH™ Package on the Hitachi EX5600 7 Haul Truck

Breve

The client required a robust sound attenuation solution to meet stringent asset-level noise requirements for their Hitachi EX5600 7 Excavator. The goal was to reduce the cumulative sound power generated by surface operations while minimizing emissions, without compromising performance or payload.

Desafio

The mine operates under strict environmental regulations and risks exceeding regulated site noise limits without a long-term noise control solution in place for nearby receptors, ongoing monitoring and must maintain sound levels below 42 decibels during daylight hours, and even lower at night. Therefore, a site-wide compliance strategy was necessary to avoid community impact and operational restrictions.

Scope

Minetek Sound was engaged to attenuate Hitachi EX5600 7 Excavator with a custom solution that:

- Achieved site-specific sound power targets
- Used minimal componentry to preserve payload efficiency
- Maintained strict OEM backpressure and airflow tolerances

Minetek engineers delivered a comprehensive M-STEALTH™ Sound Package for the Hitachi EX5600 7 Excavator, designed to drastically reduce the operating sound levels, while ensuring compliance.

Resultados

- Noise reduction: From 120 dB(A) to 114 dB(A)
- Compliance: Machines can now operate closer to site boundary while maintaining noise compliance levels
- Efficiency: Completed ahead of schedule with no safety concerns during installation or commissioning.

Minetek delivered a compliant, high-performance attenuation solution tailored to the client's operational needs. The project met the client’s strict compliance targets and internal KPIs. Minetek's M-STEALTH™ Sound Package ensured the site maintained productivity while upholding environmental and community expectations.

Pre attenuation

120 dBA

The Hitachi EX5600 7 registered a factory sound frequency level of 120 dBA prior to Minetek Sound Attenuation.

Post attenuation

114 dBA

The sound output of the Hitachi EX5600 7 was tested after installing Minetek’s turn-key M-STEALTH™ sound attention solution. This registered a sound frequency level of 114dBA.