Noise Control in OC, UG & MPP

NOISE IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL
ASSIGNMENT 04
ON
ACTIVE AND PASSIVE METHODS OF NOISE

CONTROL IN OPENCAST, UNDERGROUND
MINES AND MINERAL PROCESSING PLANTS
SUBMITTED BY
SUBHAMOY GHOSH
219MN1410
DEPT. OF MINING ENGG.
NIT, ROURKELA
CONTENTS
SUBJECT PAGE No.
 Active v/s Passive Control of Noise...................................................................1
 Noise control techniques.....................................................................................2
 Noise control at the sources................................................................................3
 Noise control on the path....................................................................................4
 Noise control at the receiver................................................................................6
 Hearing Protectors...............................................................................................6
 Noise control in Opencast mines..........................................................................7
o Evaluating noise controls for a haul truck - A case study...........10
o Evaluating noise controls for jumbo drills and bolters................14
 Noise control in Underground mines...................................................................21
 Noise control in Mineral Processing plants..........................................................56
 References............................................................................................................80
Active v/s Passive Control of Noise:
Noise control is an active or passive means of reducing sound emissions, often for
personal comfort, environmental considerations or legal compliance. Active noise control is
sound reduction using a power source. Passive noise control is sound reduction by noise-
isolating materials such as insulation, sound-absorbing tiles, or a muffler rather than a power
source.
Active noise cancelling is best suited for low frequencies. For higher frequencies, the
spacing requirements for free space and zone of silence techniques become prohibitive. In
acoustic cavity and duct based systems, the number of nodes grows rapidly with increasing
frequency, which quickly makes active noise control techniques unmanageable. Passive
treatments become more effective at higher frequencies and often provide an adequate
solution without the need for active control.
1
Noise Control Techniques:
Noise control is a methodology which includes certain activities for obtaining an

accessible environment at one or multiple receivers with economical and operational
considerations.
Control of noise in mines can be achieved by any of the following techniques:
 Reducing sound at the source,

 Interrupting the path of the noise, and
 Protecting the receiver.
The method or combination employed depends on the amount of noise reduction

required and in economic and operational considerations in a specific noise control problem.
Noise Control Techniques:
 Control at source:
(1) Reduction of amplitude of the amplitude forces;

(a) Reduction of impulse or impulsive forces,
(b) Balancing of moving masses,
(c) Vibration isolation,
(d) Balancing of magnetic forces,
(e) Reducing frictional forces,
(f) Using dynamic compensation,
(g) Modified machine design,
(h) Timely maintenance and lubrication,
(i) Controlled blasting procedures,
(2) Reduction of the response of various components to exciting forces;
(3) Change in the operating procedure.
 Control on the transmission path:
(1) Orientation and location enclosures;
(2) Silencers;
(3) Pipe lagging;
(4) Acoustic screens;
(5) Absorption treatment.
2
(6) Green belt;
 Control at the receiver:
(1) Ear plugs and ear muffs;
(2) Exposure control;
(3) Remote control;
(4) House of exposure;
(5) Education and publication;
(6) Sound proof booths.
Classification of engineering solution to a noise problem:
 Modification of the forces within the sources:
(1) Design;
(2) Maintenance.
 Modification the path between the sound and the path:
(1) Vibration absorption;
(2) Vibration isolation.
 Modification of the path:
(1) Moving the operator;
(2) Enclosure;
(3) Screens.
Noise Control at Sources:
Various noise sources must be identified and ranked in order of importance and then
taken care of, starting with the loudest. Although, the control of noise at the source is the
most obvious solution, the feasibility of this method is often limited by machine design,
process or operating methods. The problem of noise emission from the machines has to be
tackled at the design and manufacturing stage. Much can be done to reduce the sources of
noise of an equipment by making suitable modification in the design itself like enclosing the
machine with proper noise insulating materials. Lead impregnated plastic sheets used
between sandwich layers of light metals can act as good sound deadening material. All noisy
3
equipments must have proper maintenance as the noise levels increase due to significant wear
and tear of the bearings, gears or misaligning of the shafts.
Mechanical noise is mainly caused by vibration and impact. Machine vibrations are
the source of most noise. Rotating parts in perfect balance and properly aligned and rigidly
mounted bearings produce less vibration. Wear increases vibrations and thereby producing
more noise. Noise produced by mechanical vibrations of a machine or its parts can be
reduced by damping and isolation of the vibration. Damping can be effected by applying
damping materials like rubber to vibrating components. The water cooling jacket of an
internal combustion engine dampens both vibrant and explosive noise. Properly designed
resilient mountings not only control the vibrations of the sources but also prevents its leak to
the surroundings. Vibrations of the source can also be minimised by changing the mass or
stiffness of the vibrating elements. Isolation of vibrations can be achieved by introducing an
elastic device such as metal spring, rubber or cork between the moving parts of the machine
and the surrounding stationary structure. Impact noise is created by pneumatic hammers,
crushers, ball mills, screens, chutes, bins and hoppers resulting from the impacts of rock and
rock and/or steel. It can be attenuated by optimising the impact distance and covering either
or both of the impact surfaces with a resilient material like rubber. The parts should not be
allowed to band or clatter unnecessarily.
Pneumatic noise is created by sudden inrush or discharge of air like leaking

compressed air through pipelines, ventilation fans, air compressors, pneumatic drills, fans
used for air cooling of motors. Pneumatic noise due to discharge of high volume of air
through restricted path like jack hammer drills can to some extent be reduced by using
mufflers which are simple expansion chambers to slow down the velocity of the expanding
air.
Electric motors are quieter than compressed air or internal combustion engines.
Electromagnetic vibrations should be avoided as far as possible in all electrical equipments.
Silencers are effectively used to control noise at the sources. Reactive silencers are
effective for abatement of low frequency noise while absorptive silencers are used for
medium to high frequency noise attenuation. Some form of silencers are designed to combine
both absorptive and reactive qualities to cover a wide range of frequency. The noise
generated by reciprocating air compressors is of low frequency and can be attenuated by
fitting a reactive type of silencer at the air intake, reducing a level of 103 dBA to 88 dBA in
certain cases. Absorptive silencers can be used to abate high frequency noise of auxiliary
underground ventilation fans by about 10 dBA. Absorptive mufflers using parallel baffles are
applied to noise control of equipment such as centrifugal compressors, fans and gas turbines.
Noise Control on Path:
If noise cannot be reduced to the desired level at the source, the following methods
can be applied in the path between the source and the receiver:
4
 Orientation and location:
Control may be achieved by moving the source away from the noise sensitive area.
 Enclosure:
Housing the noisy machines in isolated buildings or providing a glass cabin for the
operator of a noisy machine may serve as an acoustic barrier. Thick walls and heavy
materials are heavily effective. A 25 cm brick wall may attenuate noise by about 25 dBA.
Double glazed windows can be used at places where visual control is essential. Double walls
separated by an airspace serve as the most effective barrier. The wider the air gap, lesser will
be the transmission. The main feature of a good enclosure is usually an outer heavy wall with
an inner lining of an acoustically absorbent material, e.g. 25, 50 or 100 mm mineral wood, to
minimise the reverberant build up inside the enclosure.. An inner mesh or perforated panel
may be used reduce the mechanical damage. While maintaining a good enclosure, a good
ventilation is also required to be maintained, since ventilation prevents the overheating of the
equipment being enclosed and while doing this each vent should be silenced.
 Silencers:
Depending upon the frequency, reactive, absorptive or combination types of silencers

can be used to suppress the noise generated when air, gases or steam flow in pipes or ducts,
or are exhausted to the atmosphere.
 Pipe lagging:
On pipes carrying steam or hot fluids, lagging can be used as an alternative to

enclosure and can achieve attenuations between 10 to 20 dBA, but it is only active above
frequencies of 500 Hz.
 Acoustic screens and barriers:
A masonry wall or earth pile can form a substantial barrier. A steel plate with a
resilient material like a rubber sheet can act as a barrier. At the edge of a barrier, diffraction
takes place causing sound energy to penetrate into geometric shadows. Such acoustic screens
can reduce direct noise transmission by up to 15 dBA. However, they are of maximum
benefit at high frequencies. Also their effectiveness reduced with distance of noise source
from the screen.
 Absorption treatment:
Where there is a high degree of reflection of sound waves, including multiple

reflections, the reverberant component can dominate the sound field over a large part of the
work area. The introduction of an acoustically absorbent material in the form of wall
treatment ( the wall covered with a thin layer of mineral wool and then with a polythene
sheet) and/or functional hanging absorbers at ceiling height will reduce the reverberant
component by upto 10 dBA but will not reduce the noise radiated directly by the source.
5
 Damping:
Where large panels are radiating noise, a significant reduction in noise can be
achieved by fitting damping pads, fitting stiffing ribs or using a double skin construction.
 Green belt:
Creation of green belts around mining sites as well as residential areas can act as
noise barriers. They can reduce noise levels reaching the people in mining colonies by
absorption by ground cover and tree foliage.
Noise Control at the Receiver:
The receiver is the final part of the sound transmission system. The receiver
determines the acoustic objective of the noise control system. The acoustic objective in mines
is determined by the hearing conservation requirements of the human ear as the noise
receiver. The objective of hearing conservation is the prevention of any hearing loss and early
recognition and appropriate referral if significant losses does occur. It is important for both
industry and workers to protect hearing acuity which is vital to the ability to communicate.
When it is not practical or economical to reduce noise levels to meet the acoustic
objective, ear protectors are used. Ear protectors are capable of reducing the noise level at the
ear by 10 to 55 dB, depending on the make and the frequency. A personal ear protector
permits the reduction of noise at the ear, if not to a pleasant level, at least to an harmless one.
Hearing Protectors:
The primary area of damage to the hearing mechanism from intense noise is the inner
ear. The purpose of Hearing Protection Devices (HPD) is to attenuate the level of noise
entering the outer and middle ear before it reaches the inner ear. Noise can be transmitted
through a protected outer ear directly through the protecting device, or the device itself being
made to vibrate by the sound pressure waves. Transmission of sound to the middle and inner
ear is partially attenuated at all frequencies, especially low ones.
6
NOISE CONTROL IN OPENCAST MINES:
An opencast mine where all its activities are executed above the surface, some of the
general methodologies of reducing noise are as follows:
 Fitting of noise reduction kits and effectively and properly designed silencers on earth
moving machineries and other equipments.
 Fitting of noise absorbent acoustic panelling to the sides of engine compartments and
to the radiator cooling fans.
 Changing or phasing the operations.
 Location and gradient of internal haul roads.
 Use of quieter operating techniques.
 Construction of baffle embankments at sensitive locations.
 Acoustic design of cabins of heavy earth moving machineries.
 Providing exhaust mufflers.
 Deploying of quieter equipments.
 Reducing noise leakage paths.
 Using vibration damping materials.
 Fitting vibration isolators.
Some of the noise control measures that can be adopted for Bull dozer, Front End Loader and
Scraper are as below:
 Bull Dozer: Control measures include
(1) Installing mufflers on the diesel exhaust.
(2) Sealing of holes in the floor and the dash board of operators station.
(3) Adding sound absorbing materials under ROPS-FOPS structure.
(4) Vibrating isolation material between engine and dash board.
(5) Wind shields.
 Front End Loader: Control measures include
(1) Exhaust muffler.
(2) Seals around opening in cab walls, door seats and floor.
(3) Sound absorption material on all the cab interior surfaces.
 Scraper: Control measures include
(1) Exhaust silencer.
(2) Damping materials around the engine.
7
Impulsive noise from blasting can be reduced by the following methods:
 The use of electric shot firing.

 Correct initiation sequence and size of the blast.
 Avoidance of the usage of detonating cord on the surface between blast holes or
where this is not possible, the covering of the detonating cord by spoil to a depth of at
least 0.5 m.
 Covering of detonating cord at the surface of the blast holes.
 Firing to free faces.
 Adequate burden and sufficient stemming of blast holes.
For some of the other mobile equipments, the followings measures may be taken to reduce
the level of noise produced:
 Dragline:
Dragline usually exceed its required static sound power of 107 dBA, due to relatively
minor defects around the ventilation fans on the roof of the machine. With these defects
rectified, the machine can meet the required static sound power level and fan noise would be
rarely heard in nearby residential areas. The dragline’s bucket and rigging components are
recognised early in the mine’s design phase as a potential source of intermittent noise,
particularly while the machine is dumping as the bucket is high above the spoil piles. A
detailed investigation could be conducted into methods of reducing impact noise as the
bucket works, including design modifications to prevent or minimise impacts and coating
materials which reduced noise from remaining unavoidable impacts. Recommendations are
to coat some components with a resilient material, particularly the spreader bar and lift chains
as these are not subject to regular contact with spoil. An archless bucket can be chosen to
minimise the chances of the spreader bar and drag chains coming into contact with the
bucket. Resilient pads are mounted around the rim of the bucket and on the sides near the
lifting points, preventing direct metal contact with the lift chains. These modifications results
in impact noise associated with the spreader bar and lift chains being reduced from a typical
sound power of 132 dBA to around 116 dBA, while impacts on the bucket arch are totally
eliminated. Remaining metal impacts with a sound power over 130 dB(A) are still possible,
mainly associated with the drag chains and rope sockets which cannot be coated due to their
service conditions. Minimising remaining impact noise could be left to the machine’s
operator, with training sessions conducted to ensure each operator has the skills to operate the
machine in the quietest possible manner yet still keep productivity to required levels.
 Hydraulic Excavator, Loader:
These loading units are supplied with significant noise control modifications,
including radiator louvers or plenum chambers, engine enclosures, acoustically treated
cooling air inlet chambers and more effective exhaust silencers. Machines operate
satisfactorily with these modifications, with regular cleaning required to the acoustic material
to prevent dust build up and maintain its performance. These units produce a sound power
typically around 111 dB(A) and no greater than 113 dB(A) while working, compared to over
8
120 dB(A) for a standard dual-engine excavator and 117 dB(A) for a standard loader of the
same model. With their working location usually in a pit, noise from these machines is rarely
audible at any property.
 Drills:
Diesel powered drill rigs, with the engine exposed on standard machines, are supplied
with enclosed engines, louvered radiators, acoustically treated cooling air outlets and more
effective exhaust silencers. Minor treatment to the dust extractor is also required, and rubber
skirts around the drill head minimises compressed air noise as the bit contacted the ground.
Some initial cooling problems are experienced with these machines, with airflow restricted to
the radiator. With relatively minor modifications to the fans and louvers, these machines
work satisfactorily with regular cleaning of the acoustic material. Modifications to the
machines also reduces their sound power from 117 dBA to below 112 dBA while working.
 Track Dozers:
Standard track dozers typically produce a sound power around 116 dB(A) from the
engine, exhaust and radiator, with track noise in reverse producing up to 128 dB(A).
Machines can also produce sound power below 112 dBA due to engine enclosures, radiator
louvers and better exhaust silencers, with track noise slightly reduced to 126 dBA due to third
gear not being available in reverse. Subsequent modifications to the tracks, involving a block
of resilient material being imbedded in each plate to reduce vibration, may result in a 2 to 3
decibel reduction in track noise.
 Wheel Dozer:
A significant noise control initiative adopted by the mines to use a wheel dozer
wherever possible on exposed dump areas, particularly at night, to eliminate excessive track
noise from a track dozer. A wheel dozer supplied with a maximum sound power of 111
dB(A), with modifications similar to the loader described above. Due to a wheel dozer’s
limited traction, a track dozer is still regularly required on dump areas. This work is carried
out during the day wherever possible, with remaining work at night carried out at low speed
in first gear to eliminate track noise.
 Dump Trucks:
Trucks are used on the mine to haul pre strip overburden to dump areas, to haul reject
material from the processing plant to dump areas, and to haul coal from pits to the truck
dump station. The first two of these tasks requires the trucks to travel to exposed elevated
dumps, making these machines among the most critical for site noise control. Standard trucks
typically produce a sound power over 120 dBA. The low sound power can be achieved
generally in the same way as the other machines described above, with engine enclosures,
radiator louvers and treated cooling air outlets under the truck’s chassis. Some ongoing
problems have been experienced with the machines, mainly with the unit regularly used to
haul reject material. Regular cleaning has proved to be the most practical solution, however
careful cleaning is required in a number of barely accessible areas and results in unwanted
downtime and a slight loss of production.
9
 Water Carts:
Water carts of 90 tonne capacity are used to minimise dust from haul roads in the
mine while producing a sound power no greater than 112 dBA. Engine, exhaust and radiator
noise has been treated in these machines in a similar manner to the dump trucks, but with a
hydraulically cooled braking system water carts produce less noise than dump trucks while
travelling downhill. As for the other machines, regular cleaning of all noise control
components is required to maintain satisfactory performance.
The noise controlling measures for the Fixed Plants are as described below:
 Processing Area Conveyors:
It is apparent that the noise generated by the conveyors is significantly greater than
expected. In particular the stockyard conveyors, not being enclosed to allow access for the
stackers and reclaimers, are perceived as very noisy. The idlers with an uneven surface,
which is used as the rust preventative coating and is applied by the manufacturer after
machining. Scraping, grit-blasting and polishing the uneven surfaces reduces the noise levels
significantly.
 Stockpile Machines:
The stackers produce an average of 2 decibels over the expected levels, although
stacker noise is strongly dependent on the condition of idlers which therefore must be
carefully maintained. The reclaimers also produce 2 to 3 decibels more than expected, with
dominant sources of noise including the main bucket chains and sprockets and the interface
chute between the reclaimer and the conveyor. Of these sources, only the chains and
sprockets have the potential to be audible at a residential property due to their intermittent
noise character. These machines have been the subject of a few noise complaints, however,
these have occurred during strongly noise-enhancing atmospheric conditions.
Evaluating Noise Controls for a Haul Truck - A case study:
Haul truck noise is a good example of the challenging problem of reducing noise in
both reverberant and non-reverberant environments.
10
Absorptive Material:
Several of the tested haul trucks had 0.75-inch-thick, vinyl-covered material installed
in the area in front of the operator. It is not known if this material was a sound absorbing
material or if it was only padding the material was attached with Velcro for easy removal.
NIOSH researchers measured sound levels at the operator position above ground at low and
high idle, with and without the vinyl-covered material in place. The vinyl-covered material
had little effect on sound levels at the operator’s position. The results for haul truck 2 show
that the sound level at low idle was higher with the vinyl-covered material than without it,
possibly due to fluctuations in engine output between the tests. At high idle, the vinyl-
covered material had no measurable effect on the sound level.
Haul truck with vinyl-covered material installed in the area in front of the operator.
Sound level at the haul truck operator’s position, surface measurement
The third haul truck had the same 0.75-inch-thick, vinyl-covered material in the area
in front of the operator as the previous two haul trucks. However, haul truck 3 also had vinyl-
covered material attached to the underside of the canopy (see the following figures). NIOSH
researchers compared sound levels measured at the surface with those measured underground
under the same conditions: at the operator position at low and high idle, with and without the
vinyl-covered material in place.
11
Haul truck with vinyl-covered material installed in canopy above the operator
.
Sound level at the haul truck operator’s position, underground measurement
Sound level for haul truck at the operator’s position, surface measurement
Partial Engine Enclosures:
Engine enclosures are used to contain engine noise. Sound-absorbing material can be
used to line engine enclosures to absorb noise within the enclosure. This can reduce the sound
level emitted from the enclosure. The actual amount of noise reduction achieved depends on
many factors. To contain engine noise, the enclosure must be made from a material with a
high TL. Adequate space is needed between the engine and its enclosure to allow proper flow
of cooling air. If the space between the engine and enclosure is insufficient, the cooling fan
will not be able to efficiently move air and the noise due to the fan may increase
substantially. Gaps in an enclosure greatly reduce its ability to contain noise. To test how
effective partial engine enclosures are at reducing sound levels on haul trucks, sound levels
were measured underground at the haul truck operator’s position. Data were collected on
eight different haul trucks at high idle. Each haul truck had a partial engine enclosure similar
to the one shown in the figure below, fashioned from a piece of 0.5-inch-thick rubber that
NIOSH researchers believed to be used conveyer belt material. Measurements were made
12
with and without the barrier in place. The results showed that the barrier reduced the sound
level reaching the operator by about 1 dBA.
Partial engine enclosure.
Haul truck with sound-absorbing material installed in canopy and depiction of how sound
may enter the operator area, reaching operator before padding.
The test results showed that the underground environment increased sound levels at
both low and high idle. NIOSH researchers attribute this increase to the reverberation of
sound that occurs in enclosed spaces. The amount of increase also depended on whether the
machine was running at low idle or high idle. This is due to the different frequency content
associated with the noise emitted at high and low idle and how each of these is affected by
the mine environment. Since the environment and operating conditions can have a significant
impact on equipment noise, controls should be assessed in the environment where they are
used under all operating conditions.
Sealing Gaps:
An often overlooked noise control measure is sealing gaps. A hole or gap in an

enclosure, even if small, can greatly compromise noise reduction. Gaps provide a direct path
for sound to travel from the engine to the haul truck operator. Sealing gaps reduces the noise
exposure of the operator. Sealing the gaps around the instrument panel, can significantly
reduce the operator’s noise exposure. Sound-absorbing foam should not be used to seal gaps.
Due to its open cell nature, sound-absorbing foam is not very good at blocking noise. When
sealing gaps, closed cell foam should be used instead.
13
Evaluating Noise Controls for Jumbo Drills and Bolters:
Covers for Electric Motor Powered Hydraulic Pumps:
Ten machines were tested: five roof bolters and five jumbo face drills. All of the
tested face drills and bolters were equipped with at least one electric motor used to drive
hydraulic pumps. The dual-boom face drills were equipped with two electric motors used to
drive hydraulic pumps. The motors were directly behind the operator area as shown below.
Five of the tested machines—two roof bolters and three jumbo drills—had noise controls
installed around the electric motor and hydraulic pumps. All of the reported measurements
were made underground at the operator’s ear position with only the electric motors operating.
Several of the tested controls are shown in the following figures. It should be noted
that the sound levels generated with only the electric motors on were less than 85 dB(A).
Sound levels during drilling and bolting can exceed 100 dB(A). Therefore, the noise due to
the electric-motor-powered hydraulic pumps is insignificant in terms of the operator’s dose.
The data show the motor enclosures built from barrier-type materials reduced the sound level
by about 2 dB(A). However, the enclosures built from absorptive material reduced the sound
level less than one-half dB(A). Sound-absorbing materials do not usually provide much TL.
Sound level for jumbo drills and bolters at the operator’s position, underground
Heavy conveyor belt barrier.
14
Fiberglas blanket barrier.
Plexiglas motor cover.
Absorptive Material in Canopy:
Most of the tested machines had sound-absorbing material under the canopy.
However, only three of the machines had the material installed in such a way that it could be
easily removed and replaced so that NIOSH researchers could directly measure its
effectiveness at reducing noise. In all of the cases, the absorptive material was a 1-inch-thick
quilted fibreglass blanket.
The face drill measurements were taken underground during the drilling cycle, and
the bolter results were measured above ground with the percussive hammer operating. Face
drill 2 had a removable windshield, so the effect of the absorptive material in the canopy was
measured with and without the windshield. The data show the sound-absorbing material did
not significantly change the sound levels at the operator’s position in this case.
One-inch-thick quilted fibreglass blanket being removed for testing.
15
Sound level of jumbo drills and bolters at the operator’s position
Absorptive Material on the Sides of the Cab around the Operator Area:
One bolter and one face drill had a removable 1-inch-thick quilted fibreglass blanket
around the operator’s area. For bolter 1, measurements were performed underground with the
windshield in place while drilling and bolting.
Quilted fibreglass material in the operator’s area.
The data indicate that the absorption around the operator has essentially no effect on
the sound level during the drilling process. During the bolting process, the measured sound
level at the operator’s ear was 0.3 dB(A) higher with the material in place. However, this
difference is most likely due to changes in the noise produced at the drill steel, not due to the
installation of the sound-absorbing material.
Sound level of jumbo drills and bolters at the operator’s position, absorptive material around
operator
16
Absorptive Material in the Lower Front of the Cab:
Quilted fibreglass material in the lower front of the operator’s area of bolter 2.
The table shows the levels were virtually unchanged in each case. This is not
surprising. Most of the drilling and bolting noise probably reaches the operator by bending
around the windshield or by first reflecting off the rib. The noise reflected from the front
lower area to the operator is most likely minimal.
Sound level of bolter 2 at the operator’s position, absorptive material in lower front of cab
Windshield:
The most common noise control installed on the tested face drills and bolters was a
windshield. The amount of noise reduction achieved varied greatly depending on how the
windshield was designed.
17
Wind Shields for Protection
Wind Shields for protection
Most of the windshields were designed to be flipped up into the canopy. This feature
allowed the operator an unobstructed view while operating and tramming the machine. The
windshield on bolter 2 had gaps between sections that were arranged vertically and did not
wrap around the operator station. The windshield of bolter 3 had no gaps between sections of
windshield, and the windshield wrapped around the operator. Bolter 5’s windshield was
continuous, but it did not wrap around the operator station. Strips of belting material had been
installed on the sides of the operator station on bolter 5 in an effort to block noise. The
greatest noise reductions were achieved for bolter 3, face drill 1, and face drill 4, all having
wrap-around windshields with no gaps. The only difference between the windshields of
bolters 2 and 5, was that bolter 2’s windshield had gaps between panes and bolter 5’s
windshield was continuous. Bolter 5 experienced a 1-dB(A) greater noise reduction than
bolter 2 when drilling.
18
Sound level of bolters 2, 3, 4, and 5 at the operator’s position
Covers for electric-motor-powered hydraulic pumps constructed of a heavy barrier

material, such as conveyor belting, as opposed to an absorptive material such as fiberglass,
produced the most substantial sound level reductions. However, on the tested machines the
A-weighted sound levels created by the untreated motors were below 85 dB(A). Having the
environment analyzed for noise levels prior to incurring the expense of noise treatments. If
multiple noise sources generate sound levels of 85 dB(A) individually, it may be necessary to
treat each of these sources to reduce the operator’s noise exposure. For example, four 85-
dB(A) noise sources operating together would result in a sound level of 91 dB(A). However,
on a case-by-case basis, the contribution of each noise source to the operator’s noise exposure
should be determined before installing noise controls. With bolters and jumbo drills, the
sound level due to drilling and bolting often reaches 100 dB(A), whereas the pumps generate
a sound level less than 85 dB(A). Therefore, the noise exposure due to the electric-powered-
hydraulic pumps is insignificant and, in this case, noise controls should not be applied to the
pumps. The application of fibreglass absorptive material to the canopy, seat area, and lower
portion of the open cab had little to no effect on the sound level at the operator’s ear during
drilling and bolting. To be effective at reducing the sound level reaching the operator, sound-
absorbing materials must be placed on surfaces that reflect sound toward the operator’s
hearing zone. Furthermore, a significant portion of the noise at the operator’s ear must be due
to noise reflected from these surfaces. If the majority of the noise at the operator’s station
arrives directly from the face or from reflections from the rib, treating the surfaces around the
operator will have virtually no effect on the sound level at the operator’s ear. For machines
with open cabs, such as those installed on the face drills and roof bolters tested, absorptive
materials will be of limited benefit. For face drill 2, a reduction of nearly 1 dB(A) was
achieved with absorptive material in the operator area with only the electric-motor-powered
hydraulic pumps in operation. This reduction probably occurred because the noise from the
pumps must reach the operator by an indirect path. Line of sight with the pumps is obscured
by body of the machine. As this noise reflects off surfaces around the operator, the material
around the operator reduces the noise. However, when the operator began drilling, the
primary noise source became drilling noise. Since drilling noise reaches the operator mainly
via a direct path, or by bending around the windshield, the absorbing material around the
operator would have no effect. In general, well-designed windshields were the most effective
noise controls implemented on the drills and bolters because they block drilling and bolting
noise from reaching the operator. Also, the noise generated by drilling and bolting is
19
predominantly high frequency in nature. High frequency sounds are easier to block and
absorb because of their shorter wavelengths. The windshields that had a gap between an
upper and a lower pane of glass were the least effective at reducing sound levels because the
gaps allow drilling and bolting noise to pass through. The conveyor belt strips serving as a
makeshift enclosure on bolter 5 were installed in an attempt to supplement the noise
reduction due to the windshield. Because no sound level measurements were taken without
the strips in place, the noise reduction they offer is unknown. NIOSH researchers assume
they have little, if any, effect on sound levels reaching the operator’s ear because of gaps
between the strips. The strips should be overlapped a few inches to improve the noise
reduction due to their use.
20
NOISE CONTROL IN UNDERGROUND MINES:
Three methods, primarily employed in underground mines to reduce the exposure of

the workers to noise are:
 Implementing engineering noise controls to reduce noise at the source or at the

worker.
 Using administrative controls to limit the amount of time workers spend in noisy
environments.
 Wearing personal protective equipment, such as hearing protectors, to reduce the
sound level entering the ears.
Using engineering noise controls is the most desirable option because they address
noise sources directly. Administrative controls and hearing protectors are indirect
interventions and are less easily monitored and therefore more readily circumvented.
Barriers and Sound Absorbing Materials:
A barrier is a solid obstacle that is at least somewhat impervious to sound and

interrupts the direct path from the sound source to the receiver. The sound transmission loss
(TL) of a material is a measure of its ability to block sound. To block sound most effectively,
the barrier should be:
 placed as close as possible to either the source or receiver;

 assembled to be as tall and wide as practical so it extends well beyond the direct
source-receiver path; and
 constructed of a material that is solid and airtight. Low frequency sounds are difficult
to block with barriers because low frequency sounds pass directly through and bend
around obstacles relatively easily. This is why the bass tones from a passing car stereo
are audible even inside buildings. Mid to high frequency sounds, which often
dominate a worker’s noise exposure, cannot pass through or bend around barriers as
easily as low frequency sounds. In general, adding mass to a barrier improves its
ability to block noise. Another way to improve the TL of a barrier is to use multiple
layers of material with each layer separated from the others using a compliant
material such as foam. This method decouples the vibration of each layer from the
other layers and, therefore, increases the TL.
Sound-absorbing treatments are usually made of porous materials that absorb incident
sound energy and reduce the reverberation due to sound reflected from surfaces. Fiberglass
and open-cell foam are often used for sound absorbers. A material’s degree of sound
absorption depends on its flow resistance and thickness, the way it is mounted, and the
frequency of the incident sound. Thicker sound absorbing materials are needed to absorb low
frequency sounds. For frequencies above about 1 kHz, 1-inch-thick sound absorbing material
has sufficient sound absorption. Two-inch-thick sound-absorbing material has good
absorption for frequencies above about 500 Hz. Protective facings on sound absorbing foam
21
tend to improve the sound absorbing capabilities of the material at lower frequencies. To
improve the sound absorption of an installed material, the material can be mounted with an
air space between it and the surface behind it. To achieve the best results, the material should
be spaced one-quarter wavelength from the surface behind it. In this case, the wavelength is
based on the lowest frequency of interest. In addition, the optimal absorption of a material
occurs when the thickness is equal to one-quarter wavelength for the frequency of interest.
Or,
In some instances it can be impractical to install material with the optimal thickness or
spacing to absorb low frequency sounds. For example, the optimal material thickness for
noise at 1 kHz is roughly 3.5 inches and the optimal material thickness for noise at 500 Hz is
about 7 inches. Knowing the frequency content of a noise problem enables one to select a
sound-absorbing material that has sufficient absorption at the frequencies where the noise
energy is greatest.
Noise Exposure Reduction:
In general, the amount of noise reduction achievable by, and the technologically
achievability of a given noise control or a group of noise controls is widely variable and must
be considered on a case-by-case basis. The amount of noise reduction that can be obtained
from an individual noise control or suite of controls is dependent on a large number of
factors:
 Type and model of the machine.

 Number and types of control implemented.
 Physical and acoustical environment in which the machine is used.
 Type of work the machine performs.
 Presence of other noise sources in the environment.
 The degree to which the machine is noise controlled prior to the installation of
additional retrofit noise controls.
 Quality of materials that are selected and used.
 Quality of the installation of the controls.
 Quality of the maintenance program of the machine.
 Maintenance of noise controls.
 Use of engineering controls in combination with administrative controls.
 Experience of the operator in using the machine.
22
For these reasons, each of the machine and noise controls shown in this guide do not
have specified noise reductions. Such figures are only obtainable after a complete acoustical
investigation is conducted on each individual machine. Each noise control case study has a
set of conditions that are unique to it. Since the noise standards treat engineering controls
equally with administrative controls, one may use either engineering or administrative
controls or a combination of both to reduce miner’s exposures. Each noise control guide is a
valuable source of information for mine operators to use when deciding what type of
mitigative action is best suited for the conditions encountered at their operation. In addition to
the applicability of the control, the operator will need to consider the specific materials used
when installing an engineering control. It is important to remember that the effectiveness of
any engineering control used to reduce noise exposures is dependent on the appropriately
selected, correctly installed, and properly maintained acoustical material. As with most
everything used in the mining industry, if an effective maintenance program is not put in
place, the noise control will not last. Sometimes noise controls are expensive. It is in the
operator’s best interest to maintain the controls so as to reap the benefits of their investment.
Dose From Multiple Noise Sources:
Special considerations should be made in view to the multiple noise sources, a

situation common in the mining industry. Multiple noise sources present unique challenges in
their measurement and control. The effectiveness of noise controls on multiple noise sources
needs to be systematically evaluated in light of their contribution to a miner’s exposure. To
further illustrate this, consider the following example: When it is determined that there are
multiple noise sources that contribute to a miner’s noise exposure, and that these sources
expose the miner to high levels of noise in a serial fashion, general noise control practices
would direct you to lower the sound level of the highest noise source. However, noise
exposure (dose) is a function of the sound level AND the amount of time the miner is
exposed to the noise. Therefore, in planning which noise source(s) to treat, it is important to
look at the sound level and the exposure time. The following table illustrates the roles of
sound level and exposure time. A particular miner’s exposure is comprised of four levels and
intervals: S1, a source of 90 dBA for 4 hours; S2, a source of 95 dBA for 2 hours; S3, a
source of 100 dBA for 1 hour; and S4, a source of 88 dBA for 1 hour.
Data for Example Calculations Involving Multiple Sound Sources
23
The miner’s exposure [S1 + S2 + S3 + S4], computed in terms of percent dose
compared to the permissible exposure level (PEL), with a 90 dBA threshold for 8 hours, is
150% [50 + 50 + 50 +0]. By treating only the highest sound level source (S3) by application
of an engineering noise control and reducing it from 100 dBA to 97 dBA (S3 mod), the
miner’s exposure [S1 + S2 + S3 mod + S4] would be 133% [50 + 50 + 33 + 0]. However, if
the source to which the miner is exposed for most of the time (S1) is modified to obtain a 3
dBA reduction from 90 to 87 dBA [S1 mod], the impact is to reduce the miner’s exposure [S1
mod +S2 + S3 + S4] to 100% [0 + 50 + 50 + 0]. Actually, a noise control yielding only a 1
dBA reduction applied to (S1) would achieve the same result. If sources (S1) and (S2) are
treated by 3 dBA each and reductions from 90 dBA to 87 dBA and from 95 dBA to 92 dBA
obtained, the miner’s resultant exposure [S1 mod + S2 mod + S3 + S4] would be 83% [0 +
33 + 50 + 0]. It is very important when conducting noise control work to examine the makeup
of the miner’s full shift noise exposure. The exposure may not be based solely on the highest
sound level or the longest exposure time. It is the total noise dose, not just the individual
sound levels or exposure times.
Acoustical Materials:
Acoustical materials can reduce noise either by absorbing or blocking sound waves,
or damping vibrations. These materials are generally referred to as absorption, barrier,
composite, and damping materials, and they can substantially increase the effectiveness of
other acoustical devices. Selection of appropriate acoustical materials must be made based on
a firm noise control engineering basis and commensurate to the task, properly installed, used,
and maintained. Acoustical devices include, but are not limited to, mufflers, silencers and
enclosures. Absorption, barrier, composite, and damping/isolation materials are defined as
follows:
A material designed to absorb sound waves. It is not intended to be used for blocking
sound waves. Some examples of absorption materials are foam and fiberglass. It may be used
inside a cab or enclosure to prevent the reverberation of sound waves.
24
A material designed to block sound waves. It does not absorb sound waves. A typical
use of barrier materials would be on the firewall of a bulldozer to block low frequency engine
noise. Some examples of sound barriers are mass loaded vinyl curtains, lead, plywood, glass,
steel, and concrete.
A material designed to both absorb and block sound. It may be used to provide
additional barrier qualities to an enclosure or operator cab as well as absorption of radiating
sound waves. Some examples are combinations of foam, vinyl, fiberglass, and lead.
Materials designed to damp, remove the ring from vibrating surfaces, and decouple
source from structure.
Some of the machineries or units generating noise in underground mines are listed
below. Here, the various sources of noise generation from every machinery is elaborated
along with their control measures in general:
 Exhaust Fans:
The sources of noise as generated from exhaust fans are as follows:
o Vibration of machine parts.

o Vibration of fan blades and fan imbalance.
25
o Noise generated as a result of turbulent mixing of fast air stream with stationary air
vortex.
o Noise generated due to motor, gear etc.
The control measures for it includes:
o Provision of inlet and discharge silencers.

o Provision of noise absorbing splitters and speed control devices.
o Replacing worn out parts of the moving machineries and planned maintenance.
o Appropriate fan design and provision of fitting casings, laggings and cladings.
 Coal cutting Machines:
The sources of noise as generated from coal cutting machines are as follows:
o Cutter head.
o Noise generated from drive train and conveyor.
o Noise from hydraulic systems and pumps.
o Winch systems.
o Improvement in the design of the cutter head and removal of the worn out bits.
o Reduction in the velocity of the cutter head.
o Structural dampening of contact noise generated.
o Isolated cutting ring design and provision of helical gears.
 Load, Haul, Dump Machine (LHD):
The sources of noise generated from LHDs are as follows:
o Noise resulting from the engine due to continuous workings.

o Noise generated due to air intake and exhaust.
o Working of the cooling fans.
o Blanketing of the noise sources and controlling the speed of the engine.
o Provision of vibration isolation mounts between transmission and structures.
o Sealing of holes and openings in the operator's compartment.
 Stoper Drill:
The sources of noise from a stoper drills are as follows:
26
o Noise due to vibration in the drill unit body.
o Noise generated due to drill steel vibration.
o Noise due to air exhaust.
The control measures include:
o Redesign of the drill.

o Provision of jacket type muffler surrounding the drill body and air exhaust part.
 Jumbo Mounted Percussive Drill:

'
The sources of noise from this are:
o Noise due to drill body vibration.

o Noise due to drill steel vibration.
o Noise generated due to unmuffled exhaust.
The control measures are:
o Provision of exhaust muffler.

o Redesign of drill and usage of damping and sheating materials.
o Timely maintenance.
o Timely replacement of worn out bits.
o Provision of ear plugs for the operators.
 Shearer:
The noise generated from the Cutting drum is the major source of noise in case of a shearer.
The control measures for it are:
o Redesign.
o Speed ratings.
o Ear protectors.
 Armoured Face Conveyor (AFC):
The noise sources from AFC includes:
o Noise due to steel flights impacting on the structure.

o Noise generated due to the movement of the conveyor chain on the deck plates.
o Noise due to haulage chains.
o Drive head gear.
27
 LOCOS:
Noise Sources:
o Working of the diesel engine produces noise.

o Working of the cooling fans.
o Movements of wheels on rails generates noise.
Control measures:
o Designing quieter engine.

o Providing enclosure to the engine.
o Provision of reactive type silencers in exhaust.
o Controlling fan speeds.
o Splitter ducts.
 Haulage and Transfer points:
The noise control measures employed to this are:
o Provision of enclosures like double skinned material sheeting and also partial barriers.
 Auxiliary/Booster fans:
The noise sources are same as an exhaust fan.
o Provision of silencers, quieter units and splitters.
 Pumps:
The sources of noise are as follows:
o Noise due to pulsation of expanding air.

o Discharging noise due to motor and gears.
28
The detailed explanation of the noise control methodology implied few of the
equipments used in underground mining operations are as described below:
 Continuous Miner - Auger type:
Auger-type Continuous Miners are found only in low seam, underground coal mines.
Twin auger heads with cutting bits mine and transport the coal to the gathering arms. The
machine discharges the coal onto a series of bridges for transport out of the mine.
Continuous Miners - Auger Type
Retrofit Noise Controls:
Areas Where Retrofit Noise Controls can be Applied to an Auger-Type Continuous Miner
Conveyor Pan Lines:
The conveyor pan lines should be treated to dampen vibration and also to isolate the
chain conveyor flights from the pan. This can be accomplished with individual wear strips
shown in the following illustration, or full coverage of the pan line as also illustrated. The
chain turn-around should provide smooth transition for the chain and flights.
29
Installation of Wear Strips on Pan Line
Note: Installation of the individual strips can be done by either welding or fastening
with machine screws to the deck. If wear strips are welded in place the width and length of
the damping material should be reduced so as to prevent damage to the material and the
possible emission of toxic vapours.
Full Coverage Treatment to Both Upper and Lower Pan Lines
Auger Cutting Heads:
The auger cutting heads are one of the major noise sources. A retrofit noise control
application was developed by the U. S. Bureau of Mines (USBM). Originally, it was called
the sand-filled cutting head because of the materials used. Explicit details for the construction
of these cutting heads can be found in the USBM Informational Circular (IC) 8971. This
method utilizes a steel stiffener welded to one side of the cutting head helix. The hollow
space formed between the stiffener and the helix is then filled with sand. This is shown in the
following illustration. It should be emphasized that the construction of the sand-filled auger
cutting head should only be done in a shop or rebuild facility.
30
Sand-Filled Auger Cutting Head
Barriers:
When a continuous-mining machine is operated from an operator’s compartment, a

barrier can be used to block and redirect sound away from the machine operator. A clear
barrier such as plexiglass can be installed between the operator and the chain conveyor to
reduce the operator’s exposure. If the seam height varies, the barrier can be hinged so it can
be easily lowered.
Transfer points:
When a bridge haulage system is being used, proper alignment of the bridge sections
will reduce the impact noise generated as the material drops at the transfer points.
Maintenance:
Good maintenance of the continuous-mining machine can help eliminate noise

sources such as loose covers causing metal-on-metal impacts. Maintaining proper tension of
the conveyor chain will also reduce the noise generated by the flights impacting the side of
the pan. This will provide for a smoother transition of the chain and flights around the tail
piece.
Alternative Technology:
Under certain situations, remote controls may be used as a noise control by increasing
the distance between the operator and the machine. The use of remote controls is dependent
upon mining methodology and is very site-specific. 4. Administrative Controls The sound
levels created by the chain conveyor on continuous-mining machines and bridges are
considerably higher when they are running with no material on them. Therefore, limiting the
amount of time a chain conveyor is run without conveying material can reduce the overall
exposure.
31
 Continuous Miners - Drum Type:
Drum-type Continuous Miners are found in both coal and metal/non-metal mines
(salt, potash, nickel). They come in various configurations; some are operated by remote
control and others operated from the machine. Some new machines have roof bolters
mounted on either side. A large spinning drum with cutting bits cuts the material. The
material falls on the floor and is picked up by the gathering arms. The machine discharges the
material either on the floor behind it or directly into shuttle cars for transport. If the material
is deposited back on the floor, a loader machine gathers it and loads it into a shuttle car.
Areas Where Retrofit Noise Controls May be Applied on a Continuous Miner – Drum Type
Conveyor Pan Line and Chain Turn-Around:
The conveyor pan line should be treated to dampen vibration and to isolate the chain
and flights from the pan. This can be accomplished with individual strips or full coverage.
The chain turn-around should provide smooth transition for the chain and flights.
32
Constrained-Layer Damping of Conveyor Pan Using Individual Strip
Dust Scrubber:
An acoustical silencer should be installed on the scrubber exhaust. The silencer is

made from acoustical foam with a porous cover to protect against dust, water, and grease.
This item must be properly and frequently maintained to assure its effectiveness. There are
several types of silencers available. Selection is dependent upon the type of continuous-
mining machine and scrubber being used. There is an acoustical foam wrap available which
can be wrapped around the scrubber housing to reduce the noise. There is also a sleeve-style
attenuator, which slides inside the housing to absorb scrubber exhaust noise, an attenuator
which is bolted onto the scrubber exhaust to help reduce the noise is also available. Space
limitation must be considered when choosing these items. For scrubbers with dual exhausts
and crossover duct-work, a kit is available for applying sound-absorbing material to the
crossover duct-work.
Motor Covers:
The motor cover panels can be treated to reduce motor noise reaching the operator.
The acoustical materials needed for this treatment include an absorptive layer and a vibration
damping layer.
Example of Layering Applied to Motor Covers
33
Coated Conveyor Chains:
The flight bars of the continuous miner’s conveyor chain can be treated with a highly
durable polyurethane coating to reduce impact noise between the conveyor chain and the
conveyor pan and tail roller. Conveyor chains with coated flight bars are available from
retrofit conveyor chain manufacturers.
Dual Conveyor Sprocket and Chain:
Continuous miners equipped with a dual conveyor sprocket and a corresponding dual
sprocket conveyor chain has been shown to reduce the machine operator’s overall noise
exposure. This combination reduces impact noise between the conveyor chain and the
conveyor pan and tail roller.
Barriers:
A barrier can be used to block and redirect sound away from the machine operator
when a continuous-mining machine is operated from an operator’s compartment. A clear
barrier, such as plexiglass between the operator and chain conveyor, has been shown to
reduce the operator’s exposure. If the seam height varies, the barrier can be hinged so it can
be easily lowered.
Transfer Points:
will reduce impact noise generated as the material drops at the transfer points.
Maintenance:
Proper maintenance of the continuous-mining machine can help eliminate noise

sources such as loose covers causing metal-on-metal impacts. Maintaining proper tension of
pan and provide for a smoother transition of the chain and flights around the tail piece.
Under certain situations, remote controls can be used as a noise control by increasing
upon mining methodology and is very site-specific. Manufacturers of continuous miners can
provide details on remote control systems for their machines.
 Conveyors - Chains:
Conveyors transport the cut ore or coal from the gathering arms of a continuous miner
to the discharge point or from one end of a bridge section to the other. They are also utilized
to transport ore or coal along a longwall panel. They are constructed in sequences of several
links of chain to a metal flight.
34
Schematic Representation of a Conveyor Chain
This section covers conveyors without noise controls. The effectiveness of noise
controls depends upon the quality of the acoustical materials and the installation. If a retrofit
kit is unavailable, the acoustical materials may be purchased in bulk from suppliers.
o Treated Pan Line:
The conveyor pan line should be treated to dampen vibration and to isolate the chain
and flights from the pan. This can be accomplished with individual strips or full coverage.
The chain turn-around should provide smooth transition for the chain and flights.
o Motor Covers:
The motor cover panels can be treated to reduce motor noise reaching the operator. The
acoustical materials needed for this treatment include an absorptive layer and a vibration
damping layer.
Constrained-Layer Damping of Conveyor Pan Using Individual Strips
35
Constrained-Layer Damping of Conveyor Pan Using Full Coverage
o Coated Conveyor Chains:
The flight bars of the conveyor chain can be treated with a highly durable
polyurethane coating to reduce impact noise between the conveyor chain and the conveyor
pan and tail roller. Conveyor chains with coated flight bars are available from retrofit
conveyor chain manufacturers.
o Barriers:
When a conveyor is operated from an operator’s compartment, a barrier can be used

to block and redirect sound away from the machine operator. A clear barrier, such as
plexiglass, can be installed between the operator and chain conveyor to reduce the operator’s
exposure. If the seam height varies, the barrier can be hinged so it can be easily raised and
lowered.
o Transfer points:
will reduce the impact noise generated as the material drops at the transfer points.
o Maintenance:
Proper maintenance of the conveyor can help eliminate noise sources such as loose
covers causing metal-on-metal impacting the side of the pan. Maintaining proper tension of
pan this will provide a smoother transition of the chain and flights around the tail piece.
upon mining methodology and is very site-specific. Manufacturers of conveyors can provide
details on remote control systems for their machines.
36
Administrative Controls:
The sound levels created by the chain conveyor and bridges are considerably higher
when they are running with no material on them. Therefore, limiting the amount of time a
chain conveyor is run without conveying material can reduce the overall sound levels.
 Fan Systems - Mine Ventilation:
Special Enclosures can be made around the mechanical ventilators to reduce worker’s
exposure.
The effectiveness of noise controls is dependent upon the quality of both acoustical
materials and installation. Replacement of a noisy fan with a quieter model is recommended.
Use of any noise control options in the above table is also suggested.
There is no alternative technology to such provisions.
 Hand-Held Pneumatic and Electro-Pneumatic Drills:
Hand-held pneumatic drills can be found in above ground (sandstone, limestone, and
dimension stone) and underground (coal, lead, and zinc) mining environments. In some
situations, it is the primary tool used to mine and in other situations it is used as a utility tool.
Electro–pneumatic drills can be utilized in the same capacity as a pneumatic drill. Although
the electro-pneumatic drill is quieter by design, its penetration rate is markedly slower than
that of a pneumatic drill and may be more suited to use as a utility tool.
37
Drill
Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM):
Install mufflers to reduce the exhaust air noise. Use equipment mufflers as provided
by drill manufacturer. Provide air pressure monitors and regulators at use locations. Use the
lowest air pressure possible to complete the task. Increased air pressure generates more noise
without increasing work efficiency. Collar the drill steel before applying full drilling
pressure. Use drill steels of different materials and use the smallest diameter steel to
accomplish the task.
Alternate Technology:
Use hydraulic drills. Use high pressure water-jet drills.
 Load - Haul - Dump:
Load-Haul-Dump machines are used primarily in conventional underground metal

and non-metal mining. They are used to scoop up ore and transport it a short distance, e.g. to
load a truck or feed a crusher. They come in a variety of sizes depending on the mine.
Schematic Representation of a LHD
38
Original equipment Manufacturers:
The standard noise controls, which can be applied to all LHDs, include sealing the
openings between the operator’s compartment and the transmission compartment. Installing
an appropriately matched exhaust silencer/muffler and the installation of acoustical materials
reduces the noise on certain larger model machines.
upon mining methodology and is very site-specific. Manufacturers of LHDs can provide
details on remote control systems for their machines.
 Loaders - Face:
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM):
Information from the manufacturer indicates that a sound-dampened conveyor can be

engineered into new equipment of this type. For underground loaders without noise controls,
this retrofit noise control is available.
39
This section is for underground loaders without noise controls. The effectiveness of
noise controls is dependent upon the quality of both the materials and installation techniques.
If a retrofit kit is unavailable, the materials may be purchased in bulk from manufacturers.
The following figure illustrates where the predominant noise is being generated on a loading
machine and where the acoustical materials should be installed.
Areas Where Retrofit Noise Controls Should be Installed
o Conveyor Pan Line and Chain Turn-Around Noise:
The conveyor pan line should be treated to dampen vibration. Isolating the chain and
flights from the pan is also recommended. This can be accomplished with individual steel
strips or full coverage, as shown in the illustration below. The chain turn-around should
provide a smooth transition for the chain and flights.
o Hydraulic Pump Compartments:
These pump compartments should be treated with both a barrier and absorptive-type
acoustical materials so that the pump noise will be contained within the enclosure. Vibration
material should also be installed where the pumps are mounted onto the loader structure.
These areas are detailed in the illustration below.
40
upon mining methodology and is very site-specific.
 Locomotives - Diesel:
Diesel powered locomotives are utilized to transport coal, ore, workers, and other
materials underground in mine cars.
The following table illustrates OEMs offering noise controls for new diesel
locomotives as standard equipment. Local dealers should be contacted for availability and
further details.
This section deals with diesel locomotives without any noise controls. The
effectiveness of the retrofit noise controls is dependent upon the quality of both acoustical
materials and installation. Installation of composite acoustical material should be applied
around the operator compartment and the transmission enclosed on some models when it is
located near the operator’s position. The manufacturer should be contacted regarding this
installation to ensure that an overheating problem does not occur.
 Longwalls - Shear and Plow:
Longwall mining is a method of removing coal from an extended working face or

wall. There are two distinct types of machines that are used to accomplish this task. A
41
shearing machine makes vertical cuts in coal while a plow uses steel blades to plane the coal
off the face. Radio remote controls for longwall systems are used for roof supports,
cutter/shearer, plow systems, support movers, chain and chainless haulage units, and stage
loaders. These controls tend to be more expensive than umbilical remote control systems.
Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs):
At the present time, no commercially available retrofit noise controls exist. Therefore,
operator developed retrofit noise controls and preventive maintenance on longwall systems
equipment is recommended. Retrofit noise controls which can be implemented include:
A. Locate the pump station in the intake entry, outby the headgate, away from where miners
normally perform their duties.
B. Fully enclose the stage loader (except for the entrances and exits) with secure, sealed, rigid
covers.
C. Attenuate the stage loader scrubbers as much as possible. Direct scrubber discharge away
from operator locations.
D. Install sound-absorptive material on motors, panels, and gearboxes provided that

overheating does not occur.
E. Design the entrance doors or chain curtains on the crusher to minimize the number of
loose parts that can rattle. If possible, replace the chain curtains with conveyor belting.
42
F. Cover the end of the stage loader discharge with conveyor belting.
G. Attach belting to the shearer spray arms in a manner so that the belting extends above the
spray arms.
upon mining methodology and is very site-specific.
Maintenance:
Proper maintenance of machine pan lines may reduce noise levels as much as 10
dBA. Maintain proper conveyor chain tension as both over-tensioned and under-tensioned
chains can cause increased noise levels. Adjust the pan line flight bar spacing so that flight
bars do not contact all the pan line joints simultaneously.
 Mantrips – Rail-Mounted:
Rail-mounted mantrips are used to transport workers in mines. They are either diesel
powered or electrically powered from trolley wires. Mantrips can be utilized in both metal
and non-metal mines as well as coal mines.
The following table illustrates OEMs offering noise controls for new
personnel/mantrip rail mounted carriers. Local dealers should be contacted for availability
and further details. For personnel/mantrip vehicles without noise controls, retrofit noise
controls are needed.
43
The following OEMs offer retrofit noise controls for personnel/mantrip carriers. Local
dealers should be contacted for availability and further details.
Absorption Material Used to Insulate Inner Surfaces of Cabs or Passenger Compartment
Vibration isolation and/or damping material or components may be installed on

certain components such as motors and sheet metal panels. Some standard components may
be replaced with noise controlled components.
 Roof Bolters:
44
Roof bolters are machines designed to drill boreholes into the roof of a mine. These
holes allow for the insertion of a long steel bolt that strengthens the pinning of the rock strata
above by means of a split cone, grouted bolt, or other device. Roof bolters are used in most
underground mining operations.
At the present time, there are no OEMs that offer or engineer a noise control package
for new underground roof bolting machines as standard equipment. There are however, a
number of instructional and mechanical features available from the OEMs that do play
significant roles in reducing the noise exposure of the roof bolter operator. Such features
include:
A. Newer models of roof bolting machines have quieter hydraulic motors.
B. New models with dry dust collection systems have dust blower motors that only operate
when the drill head is in use. This feature completely eliminates a phenomenon called ―Drill
Pot Whistle‖. The whistle in some cases is due to air traveling across sharp edges/cavities in
the drill pot or chuck insert. In field studies, the whistle has been measured at a constant 104
dBA at the drill pot without drill steel inserted.
C. Another new feature on some roof bolting machines is a computer-assisted drill cycle
which regulates the rotational speed and thrust based on the rock that is being drilled. Drill
steel guides are often used in conjunction with this process. Both of these features promote
the correct alignment of the drill steel, thereby helping to facilitate minimal amounts of side-
hole-to-drill-steel contact and allowing the roof bolter operators an opportunity to physically
distance themselves from the drilling of the hole; the dominant noise source for the roof
bolter.
D. Roof bolting machines should be equipped with the appropriate exhaust muffler. Some
OEMs have exhaust conditioners/water boxes available. A water box is a divided chamber
(partially filled with water) where the muffler’s exhaust terminates. In field studies,
reductions of 3 - 8 dBA were measured at the bumper/near operator’s deck and < 1 – 2 dBA
at the operator’s position at the front of the roof bolter. However, other evaluations have
shown that this device has little effect on the operator’s exposure. The effectiveness of this
device needs to be examined on a case-by-case basis.
E. Follow the OEM’s maintenance recommendations regarding the upkeep of the roof bolter.
Checklists and maintenance schedule guides (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) are provided for
45
most roof bolting machines. A good maintenance program can eliminate two of the most
significant noise sources at the drill pot:
1. A worn/drifting drill pot results in a misaligned drill hole, which increases the
amount of side-hole- to-drill steel contact.
2. Holes in drill pot vacuum hoses promote clogged drill steel, thereby leading to
banging of the drill steel, an increase in cycle time, and increased exposure time.
F. Follow the OEM’s recommendations for rotational speed and thrust. These
recommendations are based on the type of rock and the length of hole that is to be drilled.
Also, follow the OEM’s recommendations regarding vacuum for the dry-dust collection
system. Low vacuum promotes clogged drill steel.
G. It is also important to address the usage of the best possible tools for the task of drilling
the holes:
1. The use of sharp drill bits limits lateral drift of the hole, which reduces side-hole-to
drill-steel contact and helps to sustain the penetration rate.
2. Use the straightest and most dense drill steel that is compatible with the roof
bolting machine’s drill pot/chuck insert. The thickness of the straight drill steel limits the
flexing of the steel, thereby limiting the potential for side-hole-to-drill-steel contact.
3. It is imperative that aligned/straight hole is drilled. To help achieve this, the use of
starter steel of no more than 2-feet in length is recommended.
4. Use drill bit and chuck isolators to reduce roof bolting machine drilling noise. A
drill bit isolator breaks the steel-to-steel link between the drill bit and the drill steel. A chuck
isolator breaks the mechanical connection between the drill steel and the chuck. This
effectively reduces the noise radiated by the drill steel and the chuck and reduces the noise
exposure of the roof bolter operator.
The implementation of these features/recommendations can help to facilitate the good

working order of the roof bolting machine, which is of foremost importance in the effort to
reduce the exposure of the bolter operator to high sound levels. Local dealers may be
contacted for availability of state-of-the-art and other noise control options for underground
roof bolting machines.
Exhaust conditioners/water boxes can be installed on most dry-dust exhaust systems.

If such a device is retrofitted, contact your MSHA district office for instructions regarding a
46
Field Modification for the dust collection system approval. Install a durable material (such as
belting) as liners in the tool trays and on top of the roof bolter. Consider constructing a partial
barrier (three-sided) between the operator and the drilling mechanism. Some roof bolting
machines can accommodate such a barrier.
Wet drilling is a viable alternative to dry-dust drilling systems; however, it is not

suitable to all mining environments. In field studies of wet drilling systems, reductions in
sound levels were found to range from 3 -10 dBA. The wet systems that are available can
regulate the water flow so that only the amount of water necessary to clear the hole is
supplied. Sharp drill bits and straight, dense drill steel play the same important role in a wet
system as in a dry system. Wet drilling systems are available from OEMs and as retrofits. The
effective use of wet drilling systems can vary from mine to mine and is often a function of the
mine environment. It needs to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
 Roof Scalers:
Roof scalers are a type of machine designed with a telescopic boom with either a
hammer or a pick at its terminus. The purpose of the machine is to safely remove loose
material from the roof of a mine.
The following table illustrates OEMs offering noise controls for new roof scalers.
Local dealers can provide cost and availability information on noise controls available. Some
manufacturers will build a unit to specific needs.
47
The scalers are powered by diesel engines, which are considered to be a primary noise
source. If the hydraulic hammer is used for scaling, then the percussive hammer noise would
be considered an additional noise source. The height of the mine seam will determine the size
of the scaler needed. Local dealers can generally advise customers on their particular
application.
The majority of noise associated with scalers is produced by the diesel engines and
percussive noise when using a hydraulic hammer.
Acoustical Treatment of Operator Cab Enclosure: The enclosure should be treated with
acoustical materials for the purpose of reducing the overall noise at the operator’s position.
These materials should cover as much surface area as possible without hindering the
operator’s vision or movement. A unique problem with scalers is that a wide range of
visibility is needed for operator control. Another problem is that roof debris will be falling,
and possibly shattering on the floor and flying towards the cab. If safety glass or shatterproof
plastic is to be used, it will have to be cleaned regularly due to dust build-up. One positive
note on controlling scaler noise is that the diesel engine is generally located to the rear of the
operator, with the majority of noise controlling effort focused behind the operator. It should
be noted that with any enclosure work (equipment or personnel), heat build-up can become a
concern and appropriate ventilation or air-conditioning may be needed.
 Shuttle Cars - Diesel:
Diesel-powered shuttle cars are utilized to transport coal or other ores from an
underground working face area to a crusher/breaker or directly to a hopper that feeds the
main conveyor belt line.
48
The following table illustrates OEMs offering noise controls for new diesel shuttle
cars as standard equipment. Local dealers should be contacted for availability and further
details. For diesel shuttle cars without noise controls, additional retrofit noise controls are
needed.
Evaluating Noise Controls for 4 Load-Haul-Dumps: Field Studies by MSHA:
Engine Enclosure:
The engineering noise controls on the machine consisted of a partial engine enclosure
and sound-absorbing material in the engine compartment and in the cab. The engine
enclosure on the left (operator) side of the machine was composed of 0.125-inch-thick steel
panels insulated with 1.5-inch-thick fiberglass sound-absorbing material. Engine areas not
covered by steel were covered with 0.25-inch-thick rubber that NIOSH researchers believed
to be used conveyer belt material.
Left side of the engine enclosure
49
The front and back of the steel panels that covered the left side of the engine. The
right side of the engine enclosure of 0.25-inch-thick rubber that did not completely cover the
engine compartment opening.
Front and back of the steel panels insulated with 1.5-inch-thick fiberglass.
LHD partial engine enclosure, right side.
Sound levels at the operator’s position were measured both on the surface and
underground with the engine at high idle. Measurements were made with both sides of the
engine enclosure on or off, and then with the right side off and the left side either on or off.
Table 6 gives the results. The measurements on the surface show that the full enclosure
reduced the sound level by about 1 dB(A). Because these LHDs are primarily used
underground, the underground results are more important. Comparing the surface and
underground measurements, the underground environment adds about 3 to 4 dB(A) to the
sound level at the operator’s ear. The table shows the application of all controls in the
underground environment resulted in an attenuation of 1.5 dB(A) at the operator position.
Sound Level for LHD1at the Operator’s Position, High Idle
50
Engine Enclosure 2:
The noise controls on the machine consisted of a partial engine enclosure, absorptive
material in the engine compartment, and professionally installed noise control material in the
open cab. The top portion of the engine enclosure was composed of 0.375-inch-thick steel
panels lined with quilted fiberglass sound-absorbing material. The left side of the engine was
almost completely enclosed by 0.125-inch-thick steel panels with quilted sound absorption.
However, the picture shows several gaps around the perimeter of the steel panels.The right
side of the engine compartment was not enclosed. Sound levels were measured at the
operator’s position with the engine at low and high idle with the noise controls described
above. At low idle, the sound levels were about 75 dB(A) on the surface and slightly less than
80 dB(A) underground. With the engine at low idle, the sound level was measured
underground with the machine in reverse and the back-up alarm sounding. In this case, the
sound level was 95.4 dB(A).
Left side partial engine enclosure.
Quilted absorber inside the engine compartment.
51
Right side and top of engine compartment.
Sound level for LHD2 at the operator’s position, high idle
In-cab one-third-octave band spectrum for LHD2 at high idle with engine compartment open.
It is interesting to note that the 80 Hz one-third-octave band is the highest. Noise at

the engine firing frequency is contained in this band. Perhaps a larger muffler would have
reduced the sound level of the machine. The presence of significant low frequency energy
points to the cooling fan as a likely noise source. Neither exhaust noise at the engine firing
frequency nor cooling fan noise would be significantly affected by noise controls applied to
the engine enclosure.
Enclosed Operator Cab:
The noise control installed on the evaluated machine consisted of a glass-enclosed cab
lined with vinyl-faced, 1-inch-thick open cell foam with an attached barrier material.
Window-frame and upper door modifications were required for glass panes to be installed
52
within the frames. All of the modifications were cleared with the manufacturer to ensure that
the integrity of the falling object protective structure was not adversely affected.
Open cell foam used for in-cab sound absorption.
Enclosed cab with glass in place
With the machine underground, NIOSH researchers simultaneously measured sound

levels inside and outside of the cab with the engine at high idle. In addition, sound levels
were measured above, in front, to the right, and to the rear of the cab with and without the
glass panels installed. The exterior measurements were also used to ensure that the sound
level generated by the LHD did not vary much during the course of the measurement period.
The results indicate that the completely enclosed cab produced greater than 20 dB(A) of noise
reduction. Even without the front window installed, more than 10 dB(A) of reduction was
achieved.
Sound level for LHD3 at the operator’s position, high idle, underground measurement
53
Partial engine enclosures with openings of any size greatly compromise the noise
reduction capability of the enclosure. This is especially true underground, where sound
initially directed away from an operator can strike the walls and reflect back to the operator.
To be effective at reducing the sound levels reaching the operator, enclosures must be
designed to minimize holes and gaps, especially those with line of sight between the noise
source and the operator. The most effective noise-reducing enclosures are airtight. However,
an airtight enclosure for a source that requires ventilation, such as an engine, is impractical
because it could lead to overheating and engine damage. The only openings in the engine
compartment should be those to allow cooling air into and out of the cooling package. For an
LHD, if solid panels cannot be used for the engine enclosure, a partial enclosure that
incorporates overlapping materials or baffles, similar to that suggested for haul trucks, should
be used. Using a partial engine enclosure will decrease the sound levels compared to an open
engine compartment. However, an engine compartment with solid panels is the best
approach. As a rule of thumb, enclosures should be lined with sound-absorbing material to
reduce buildup of reverberant noise within the enclosure. Full coverage of all surfaces is not
completely necessary as the effect of adding sound-absorbing material decreases as more and
more of the surfaces are covered. The best approach to develop an enclosure is to first
eliminate any gaps or leaks and then to add sound absorbing material inside. For LHD2, the
lined partial engine enclosure reduced the sound level by 1.5 dB(A) above ground. However,
in the underground environment, the sound levels were not affected. This is probably due to
an increase in the contribution of cooling fan and exhaust noise to the sound level at the
operator’s ear in the underground environment. Underground, fan noise and exhaust noise
can reflect from the rib to the operator. In addition, the underground environment may have
amplified the exhaust tones corresponding to the engine firing rate. A fully enclosed
environmental cab can provide 20 dB(A) or more of noise reduction. Besides providing
protection and comfort for the operator, environmental cabs are designed to reduce exposures
to occupational hazards such as dust and noise. When installing a retrofit cab, it is wise to
contact the original equipment manufacturer to ensure that the integrity of the falling object
protective structure is not compromised. In addition, once the cab is enclosed, a climate
control system should be installed to ensure the safety and comfort of the equipment operator.
The results of testing done with LHD3 indicate that the completely enclosed cab
reduced noise by more than 20 dB(A). Sound levels were reduced more than 10 dB(A) even
with the back window removed. This shows that if completely enclosing an operator’s cab is
not feasible, a properly designed 3/4-cab enclosure can provide a substantial noise reduction.
The resulting noise reduction will depend on the location of noise sources on the machine
relative to the open area of the 3/4-cab. If there are no significant noise sources near the open
area, the partial cab can still provide a substantial noise reduction. However, if a noise source
has line of sight with the operator due to the exclusion of a side, the partial cab will not be
effective.
Adapting Active Noise Control Headsets for the Mining Industry:
Noise induced hearing loss and its consequences with regard to Occupational Health
and Safety remain a major problem in the Coal Industry, especially underground. Meanwhile,
National Standards for exposure to noise in the occupational environment are being lowered
from an 8-hour equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure level of 90 dBA to 85
dBA. The most desirable solution is of course to treat the noise problem at source. Where
54
noise control strategies are not feasible, the use of hearing protection devices remains the
most widely used strategy for limiting the exposure to noise in the work place.
In the underground coal mining industry however, it is widely recognized that the use
of certain forms of hearing protection is far from satisfactory. Some of the reasons given by
miners for their reluctance to wear hearing protection are that hearing protection devices such
as ear muffs are uncomfortable, they interfere with speech communication, and they impair
the miners’ ability to hear the audible signals of potential roof fall, the roof talk.
Active Noise Control as applied to hearing protection is a technique which uses an

electronically generated sound field to cancel unwanted noise, based on the principle that
superposition of a signal on an identical signal which is 180° out-of-phase results in mutual
cancellation of the two signals.
This project aims to demonstrate the applicability of and to establish design

specifications for ANC (Active Noise Control) Headsets for use in the coal mining industry,
especially underground.
Noise measurements on production equipment, development equipment, and

personnel transport vehicles were carried out at several underground coal mines. These
measurements were supplemented with data from previous underground noise surveys and
analysed to identify equipment with excessively high noise levels and to determine the sound
pressure levels and frequency characteristics of the offending noise. The spectral analysis of
the recorded data showed considerable variation in the noise levels experienced by miners
due to the wide range of equipment used. Overall however, the noise is broadband having
most energy in the 400 to 2000 Hz band.
A market survey of existing ANC Headsets was carried out and six units were
acquired for evaluation. The evaluation of the headsets involved a series of noise attenuation
performance tests carried out on an artificial head at National Acoustics Laboratories (NAL),
a series of environmental tests carried out at Vipac's Victorian Technology Centre in
Melbourne and a series of subjective evaluation tests carried out at several mines via user
interviews.
The NAL tests showed some devices to benefit from a significantly improved noise
attenuation performance at low frequencies thanks to the ANC system. Using the measured
noise from a continuous miner and the measured noise attenuation performance of one of the
ANC headsets under evaluation as an example, it was demonstrated that with Active Noise
Control, the overall Leq noise level was reduced from 90 dBA (with passive hearing
protection only) to 77 dBA.
The subjective tests, of the headsets involved playing back tape recorded underground
coal mining machinery noise to mine personnel through an amplifier speaker system and
inviting the participants to listen to the noise with and without the headset operating.
Although only a limited number of people took part in the trials, the user impression of the
ANC headsets collected via a questionnaire at three different mines revealed a generally
positive response of the miners to the idea of using ANC headsets for hearing protection. In
particular, the improvement in speech intelligibility with the Active Noise Control system
was the highlight of the ANC devices. However, the general operator acceptability for these
55
devices in their current form was very low, especially with regards to power supply and
ruggedness.
The Vipac Laboratory environmental tests revealed that, in their current form, the
ANC headsets tested are also unsuitable for use in underground coal mines and would need to
be re-engineered if they are to be used successfully underground.
The final part of the project has been to establish a set of specifications for the
manufacturers to use in developing ANC headsets for use underground.
NOISE CONTROL IN MINERAL PROCESSING PLANTS:
Introduction:
Minerals can only be worked where they are found. As a result, mineral working and
associated waste disposal may need to be consented adjacent to residential areas, in areas of
landscape importance or other sensitive locations. Extraction and restoration processes are of
a temporary nature but activities on a site can last for many years and may have the potential
for disturbing an area for a decade or more. For these reasons it is particularly important that
the authority has careful regard to noise in determining planning decisions on minerals or
waste.
However, because workings vary greatly, it may be necessary to apply different

standards in some circumstances.
Mineral workings require restoration. This is usually done by backfilling with waste
materials and therefore mineral working and waste disposal often represent two parts of the
same proposed noise generation process. Landfill operations are in many respects similar to
mineral extraction and the two operations can often be considered together.
Some of the sources of noise generation and the general methods of noise control are
as described below:
 Vibrating screens:
The sources of noise as generated from vibrating screens are:
o Decks, Plates, Motors, Bearings, Gears etc.
56
o Flow noise.
o Noise from screen fed chute, feed box and screen discharge.
o Provision of screen decks with resilient top surfaces.

o In fed and discharge chutes, screen bottom pan treated with elastomeric materials.
o Damping of screen side plates, vibration isolation mounts between drive mechanism
and main cross beam.
o Barriers around the screen and proper maintenance of motor bearings.
o Flow speed and quantity control.
o Screen mounted on vibration isolators.
o Provision of rubber liner in the discharge chute and also resilient liner for screen feed
box.
 Classifying Screens:
The sources of noise are mainly Decks, Plates, Feed Box and Screen Discharge.
The control measures are to provide resilient impact pad beneath infed chute, rubber clad
steel decks.
 Double Roll Crusher:
The noise sources are :
o Noise generated due to loose nuts and ringing sound by spur gear.
o Variation in feed rate and hardness of material crushed.
o Impact of the feed from the chute.
o Vibration generated from the crusher during normal operation.
o Noise from main frame, feed plate and crusher discharge.
Control measures:
o Proper maintenance and keeping uniform feed rate.

o Providing chutes with resilient pads and vibration isolation at infed chute.
o Shell liner.
 Ball Mill:
Noise sources are:
57
o Noise generated due to falling and rattling of balls and also due to broken or worn out
balls.
o Drive noise.
Control measures:
o Critical speed should not be exceeded.

o Feed should be maintained uniformly.
o Replacement of worked out balls.
o Provisions of barriers around the mill and liners inside the mill.
 Jig:
Noise sources from a jig are particularly the blower, air exhaust and the jig elevator
discharge.
The control measures:
o Provision of mufflers for air blowers.

o Provision of rubber impact pads at the infed chutes and also providing liners at the
refuse chutes.
 Rotary Breaker:
Noise sources from a rotary breaker are as follows:
o Noise generated due to rattling of hard coal or rock inside.

o Slackness of the drive chain.
o Eroding of the chain roller socket.
o Noise due to varying speed and irregular feed.
o Rumbling sound at the point of connection to the chute.
Control measures:
o Regularising feed size and the flow.

o Controlling the speed of the breaker and maintaining it at the optimum.
o Proper lubrication of the socket, chain and chain drives etc.
o Removal of worn out bearings from time to time.
o Tightening of nuts.
o Check drop height of the materials and also providing internal linings to the chutes.
 Apron Feeder:
Noise sources include feeder drive, chute and faulty coupling of motor and gear box.
58
Control measures:
o Lubrication of drives, gears and bearings and replacement of the old with new.
o Covering the open top of the feeder and enclosure of the discharge chute.
o Provision of inter resilient lining or impact pads.
 Air Blower:
Noise sources:
o Noise due to intake and discharge and drive motor.

o Vibrations in the housing reradiated as noise.
Control measures include:
o Provision of blower intake with muffler.

o Flexible barriers with suitable material can be used to lag the blower housing to
control the noise generated from the blower housing.
 Feeder and Conveyors:
Noise sources are material flow and discharge and also due to motor and gear.
Control measures include covering of the open topped feeders and conveyors along with the
control of the motor and gears.
 Picking Table:
Noise sources from a picking table are mainly the feed chute.
Control measure include the provision of urethane impact pad place where the material gets
dropped from the upper to the lower portion.
 Compressor:
Noise sources:
o Loose nuts, bolts and fittings.

o Faulty drive mechanism.
o Noise from suction and discharge openings.
59
o Vibrations.
Control measures:
o Tight fittings and replacement of damaged bearings.

o Well sealed cover eliminating air and noise leakage.
o Absorbent lining enclosures.
 Fans:
Noise sources:
o Noise due to electric motor.

o Noise of air.
o Electromagnetic noise due to forces between stator and rotor.
o Noise due to moving blades.
Control measures:
o Mufflers fitted to cooling fan intake of the motor.

o Partial or complete enclosure of the motor with liner.
o Evasse split in several parts by constructing walls of sound absorption materials.
o Proper speed rating and maintenance.
o Removal of worn out parts.
 Vacuum Pumps:
Noise sources:
o Noise due to pulsating expansion of air.

o Noise from pump housing, discharge opening etc.
o Noise from drive motor and gear.
Control measures are:
o Choice of pumps operating at lower gear tip speeds for a given volume and pressure.
o Wrapping of pipes with pipe lagging materials.
o Acoustic treatment of drive gears and tightening of fittings.
o Provision of curtains or movable walls between individual pumps.
o Treatment of interior wall and ceiling surface with sound absorption material.
o Provision of silencers.
o Liquid ring pumps and low speed impellers.
60
 Heavy Media Pumps:
Noise sources from heavy media pumps include the sound of crushing, noise as generated
from the gear boxes and loose fittings.
Control measures:
o Maintaining feed quantity.

o Provision of acoustic barriers mounted on tracks.
o Vibration isolators/damping materials.
o Tightening of bolts and fittings.
 Electric Motors:
Noise generated are mainly due to the workings of the fans and bearings.
Control measures:
o Usage of low H.P and low speed motors.

o Usage of mufflers and enclosures.
Some of the detailed methodologies of controlling noise in an individual working unit

of Mineral Processing Plant are as described below:
 Static Processing Plant:
The fixed plant used for processing the mineral or manufacturing products will, on
many sites, be in place for many years. Its location, type and arrangement should be
considered with care to ensure the minimum environmental noise impact. For instance noise
sources should be kept low and can often be screened by suitably located stock piles.
For noise lacking any particular character, such as squeaks, bangs or unpleasant
acoustic tonal components that would attract attention, Table 2 shows the limits that would
normally be appropriate at any noise sensitive area or development. If there is a distinct
characteristic to the noise, the limits would be reduced by 5 dB(A).
61
It is not intended that plant will be used other than during the normal working day. If
it is essential to use the plant at other times specific written limits will be set by the planning
authority.
Mobile Operations:
Every effort shall be made to operate the site so as to minimize noise at all times
perhaps by working below a face and towards houses. The levels in the table below are only
appropriate where noise cannot be reduced further, they are not to be regarded as a working
norm.
The Guideline figures allow, for short periods, quite high noise levels that will be
disturbing to some people. By adopting this approach it is intended to minimize the mineral
sterilized beneath wide margins, whilst sites should generally comply with the normal limits
higher noise levels may be permitted for a short period if every effort has been made to
minimize noise on the site overall.
Where noise levels might exceed the lower criterion at either end of the working day
operations will have to be arranged to avoid this, perhaps by working at other locations at
these times. This will require detailed forward planning by the operators. If such
arrangements cannot or have not been made the operational hours will have to be limited to
the later start and earlier finish.
Where existing daytime noise levels are below LA90=35 dB(A) it would not normally
be reasonable to require the new noise to be less than LAeq=45 dB(A) although noise levels
must be kept as low as possible.
Permanent Installation of Plant:
Most permanent installations associated with oil and gas operations are likely to be
working continuously and therefore noise control is of the utmost importance to prevent a
deterioration in the local environment. Other mineral and waste disposal activities may also
have permanent continuously running plant to which this section applies.
The normal requirement is that any plant that is in operation at night should not be
heard at the nearest noise sensitive location. Inaudibility is difficult to define but the
requirements of this authority would be satisfied if the following three criteria are met.
62
Because noise levels vary from night to night it might be difficult to agree the
"standard" LA90 value. The standard conditions should be calm settled weather without any
noise from activities that may not be normal for the area. Generally occasional aircraft and
the passing car or motorbike and other occasional noises that may not be typical of the whole
area, animals in a nearby field for example, should be excluded.
Monitoring:
During the night the level of noise at any noise sensitive receiver should be inaudible
and therefore cannot be monitored objectively at that location. A subjective test would be to
visit the noise sensitive location to see if the noise could be heard but this is not a satisfactory
method of monitoring. A more objective test is normally required that can be monitored
during normal working hours. A noise level should be calculated for a point which is closer
than the noise sensitive properties and where the plant noise to be monitored is well above
daytime background level. That defined noise level and location can then be used as a noise
control standard.
Waste Disposal Facilities:
This category of site includes the significant raising of the restored level of old
mineral / waste disposal sites above their original ground level or waste disposal in areas not
previously used for mineral extraction. The planning authority might accept a short term (2
weeks) noise level up to 5 dB(A) above the limits in the previous table in order to achieve
more efficient use of some site areas so long as the development was considered
environmentally satisfactory overall.
Sites for the transfer, treatment or processing of waste will normally be located in
urban areas. This could pose problems of noise because of their proximity to noise sensitive
premises. Where operations and/or plant have to run at night (e.g. an incinerator) it will
normally be required that such operations will be inaudible at the nearest noise sensitive area.
Engineering Controls:
Mills and preparation plants do not exhibit the acoustical characteristics of a single,
constant diffuse noise field. There are many noise sources and the additive effects appear to
generate one diffuse sound field having a constant sound level however, distancing the miner
from a specific noise source may result in a lowering of the noise exposure. Distance is a
good noise control, but it is hard to administratively regulate however, barriers may be used
as a substitute for distance.
Barriers:
Barriers reduce noise exposure by isolating miners from the sound source and can be
applied to practically all noise sources. The barrier can be as simple as a suspended piece of
63
curtain or as complex as a concrete wall or control room. The primary purpose is to disturb or
interrupt the noise path. Many types of materials are available depending on the noise source
and plant layout. The use of clear vinyl curtains has been proven to provide a cost-effective
barrier around equipment, walkways, stairwells, and work stations. Curtains can be purchased
in various thickness, widths, and lengths, and are generally adaptable to most installations.
There should be a sufficient overlap of curtains to ensure their effectiveness.
Barriers
Solid walls, floors, and total enclosures such as booths, can also be constructed as
barriers. A variety of ordinary building materials may be used. Noise control materials may
also be engineered into the construction
Equipment Controls:
Stationary pieces of equipment in mills and preparation plants are the primary noise
generating sources. These are the large pieces of machinery that perform multiple functions,
such as sizing and classifying the product. There have been no recent noise control
innovations in the design of mills and preparation plant equipment; however, there are
engineering principles that can be applied to reduce employee exposure. A good routine
maintenance program that includes tightening loose parts, lubrication, and replacement of
worn material is a must. Vibration isolation mounts are also available for most equipment.
The mounts help isolate the plant’s components and reduce noise generation and
transmission. Noise reduction can also be accomplished by replacement of existing
components with quieter equipment, using a different process, or relocating equipment. This
may not be feasible for larger pieces of equipment due to process requirements, size, and
cost; however, as facilities are upgraded or equipment wears out, these options should be
considered.
Other Controls:
Many processes in mills and preparation plants can be remotely monitored using
technology. Remote cameras are available to watch certain areas in the plant to reduce the
time miners spend in noisy areas. Technology also exists to monitor plant functions and
adjust the material flow and processes from a remote location. Routine preventive
maintenance and breakdowns can also be predicted by monitoring the temperature, vibration,
and amperage of plant equipment. Relocation of equipment controls is another method to
reduce personnel noise exposure. Plant circuit operators can have their controls moved
64
behind a barrier or into a quiet booth. Lubrication hoses can also be routed to a central
location where noise controls can be utilized or the use of automatic lubrication devices
implemented.
Administrative Controls:
There are many possible combinations of administrative controls that may be used to
reduce employee noise exposure. The issue is too variable and complex to discuss at length
due to employee specialization, wage agreements, and employee availability, among other
considerations. The general techniques to consider are time management, including
maintenance during idle time and worker rotation. In addition, dividing routine work between
different shifts and changing the actual shift length are administrative controls that can be
utilized.
There is no single control that will eliminate mill and preparation plant noise. A
combination of controls will be needed to reach the goal of reducing employee noise
exposure. Meaningful reductions can be achieved with the use of some or all of the
engineering controls discussed in this document. While reductions may not be attained with
engineering controls alone, they may make previously impractical administrative controls
feasible. Due to longevity of mills and preparation plants, noise controls are an important
consideration when these plants are designed and built. While controls should be engineered
into new plant construction, where that has not been done, they should be added as a retrofit.
 Centrifugal Dewaterers:
A centrifugal dewaterer is a rotating device used to separate suspended colloidal

particles such as clay or coal from slurry. The centrifugal force created by the rotation causes
the particles to move from the centre of the dewaterer to the outside edges where they are
collected.
The following is a list of OEMs that manufacture centrifugal dewatering machines.
A. Andritz Separation, Inc.
65
B. Conn-Weld Industries, Inc.
C. F.L. Smidth – Krebs
D. F.L. Smidth – Salt Lake City, Inc.
E. Guyan Heavy Equipment
F. Sweco
Information from the manufacturers’ indicates that there is no noise controls

incorporated into the new equipment of this type. Centrifugal dewatering machines without
noise controls need to have additional retrofit noise controls.
This section is for centrifugal dewatering machines without noise controls. The
effectiveness of noise controls is dependent upon the quality of both the acoustical materials
and installation techniques. The majority of noise associated with centrifugal dewatering
equipment is produced by the highspeed circulating internal pump parts and drive motors.
A. Acoustical Enclosure around the Equipment:
The enclosure can be either a prefabricated metal, lead-vinyl curtain, or a clear vinyl-
strip curtain. The type of enclosure chosen will generally be determined by the equipment’s
dimensions, maintenance requirements, and the cost of the enclosure.
B. Acoustical Enclosure for Operators in the Area:
Operator enclosures can be purchased prefabricated with acoustical windows/doors,

heating, air-conditioning, lighting, and communications already designed into the enclosure.
An alternative to purchasing would be to construct an enclosure using common building
supplies.
There is no alternate technology for this.
 Chutes:
Chutes are used to transport material in a confined area. They are commonly utilized
in preparation plants allowing material to fall through them to a lower level for further
processing or to be deposited for stockpiling.
66
The following is a list of OEMs that have noise controls available for chutes. Dealers
should be contacted for specific needs and details.
A. Aggregates Equipment, Inc.

B. Ceramic Technology, Inc.
C. Cerline Ceramic Corporation
D. Chapel Steel
E. Daniels Company
F. Jervis B. Webb Company
G. Kanawha Manufacturing Co.
H. Metso Minerals Industries, Inc.
I. Sly Inc.
J. Trelleborg Engineered Systems
K. Weir Minerals Linatex
A. Chute Liners and Wear Resistant Material
The following is a list of manufacturers that have retrofit noise controls available for
chutes.
1. Aggregates Equipment, Inc.

2. Ceramic Technology, Inc.
3. Cerline Ceramic Corporation
4. C.U.E., Inc.
5. Metso Minerals Industries, Inc.
6. Trelleborg Engineered Systems
7. Weir Minerals Linatex
B. Rock Boxes/Dead Beds
Another method to reduce the impact noise generated by the flow of material in
chutes is to create rock boxes or dead beds. This allows the product to accumulate in impact
67
areas, resulting in the moving product impacting upon itself, instead of against the metal
chute.
C. Wrapping Chute with Composite Acoustical or Vibration Damping Material
Enclosing the entire chute with a composite acoustical material can help contain some
of the noise generated from the flow of material. The walls of the chute also vibrate when
material strikes them. This vibration can be reduced by applying or fastening a vibration
damping material to the walls. The material is designed to strengthen the walls and reduce the
resonance.
Noise Damping Material Applied at a Conveyor Transfer Point
Noise Damping Material Applied to the Base of a Chute
 Compressors / Compressed Air:
A compressor is a machine driven by a power take off, an internal combustion engine,

or an electric motor to generate compressed air. This compressed air can be used to discharge
cement from mills, carry material through air slides, and unblock clogs in chutes. Another use
is to power drills on the surface and underground.
68
The following is a listing of the OEMs that have noise controls available for
compressors. Dealers and rebuild shops should be contacted for specific needs and details.
A. Gardner-Denver, Inc.
B. Ingersoll-Rand
C. Sullair Corporation
Information from the manufacturers indicates that the noise controls incorporated into
the new equipment are in the form of sound absorption material behind door covers and
exhaust mufflers. For compressors without noise controls, additional retrofit noise controls
are needed.
This section is for compressors without noise controls. The effectiveness of noise
controls is dependent upon the quality of both the acoustical materials and the installation
techniques.
If a retrofit kit is unavailable, acoustical materials may be purchased in bulk using Appendix
B as a reference.
The majority of noise associated with compressors is produced by the internal parts,
cooling fan blades, and the compressed air exhaust.
A. Acoustical Enclosure around the Equipment
The enclosure can be either a prefabricated metal, lead-vinyl curtain, or a clear vinyl-
strip curtain. The type of enclosure chosen will generally be determined by the equipment’s
B. Re-route the Intake and Exhaust of the Compressor and Various Air-Driven
Tools
A 90-degree elbow can be installed on the intake of a compressor. The elbow will
redirect the noise above the employees’ ear level. An elbow may be purchased or constructed
using common building supplies.
69
Re-route Intake
Re-route Exhaust
The exhaust from air-driven tools and components can also be vented to another area
of the plant or outside the facility. This can be accomplished using hydraulic hose and fittings
or ordinary PVC pipe.
C. Acoustical Enclosure for Operators in the Area
Prefabricated operator enclosures can be purchased with acoustical windows/doors,

heating, air conditioning, lighting, and communications already designed into the enclosure.
An alternative would be to construct an enclosure using common building supplies.

70
 Crushers:
Crushers are utilized to reduce the size of material passing through them. Among the
various types of crushers are the cone, impact, gyratory, and roller. Crushers are frequently
used in tandem with the primary crusher located in the pit and secondary ones in a processing
plant. Underground crushers are utilized prior to transporting the ore out of the mine.
The following list illustrates OEMs that have noise controls available for crushers, but
is not all inclusive. The companies listed represent the major suppliers of crushers.
A. Cedarapids, Inc.
B. Eagle Crusher Company
C. Hazemag USA, Inc.
D. Komatsu America Corp.
E. Metso Minerals Industries, Inc.
F. P&H MinePro Services
G. Pennsylvania Crusher Corporation
H. Telsmith, Inc.
The utilization of retrofit noise controls on crushers is somewhat limited. None of the
following manufacturers actively market noise controls for crushers. Resilient crusher feed
plates, resilient feed cone liners, and mass-loaded barrier curtains are available from a variety
of manufacturers.
A. Cedarapids, Inc.
B. C.U.E., Inc.
C. Eagle Crusher Company
D. Goodman-Hewitt
E. Hazemag USA, Inc.
F. Komatsu America Corp.
G. Metso Minerals Industries, Inc.
H. P&H MinePro Services
71
I. Pennsylvania Crusher Corporation
J. Telsmith, Inc.
Installation of a Resilient Crusher Feed Plate
Installation of a Resilient Crusher Feed Cone Shell
72
Installation of One-Piece Resilient Crusher Feed Core Liner
Barrier Curtain for Crusher Mainframe Feed Core Liner
If the crusher power is supplied by an internal combustion engine, an appropriately

matched and maintained exhaust system is very effective in reducing the overall sound levels.
The termination point of the muffler should be pointed away from the crusher operator.
A. Acoustical Enclosure for Operations in the Area
The most effective noise control that can be implemented in conjunction with crushers
is a well-designed, acoustically-treated control booth. The effectiveness of such booths is
greatly enhanced by structurally isolating them from the crusher or de-coupling them from
the mainframe of the crusher with air bags. Visibility requirements can be met through either
the use of appropriately-positioned windows or with remote-controlled cameras.
B. Acoustical Enclosure around the Equipment
The enclosure can be a prefabricated metal, lead-vinyl curtain, or clear vinyl-strip

curtain. An acoustical enclosure may be the best alternative for small crushers. Large
crushers should be located outside or away from the facility, if possible.
 Hoppers:
Hoppers are vessels into which materials are fed for future discharge at a controlled
rate. Typically, they are constructed in an inverted pyramid or cone shape. They are most
commonly found in the crushed stone and surface coal industries.
73
The following table illustrates OEMs that have noise controls available for new
hoppers. Retrofit noise control kits are typically not available from OEMs. Dealers should be
contacted for availability and further details.
A. Continental Manufacturing Company

B. Daniels Company C. Dover Conveyor Inc.
C. Manufacturers Equipment Company
D. Saint-Gobain Ceramic Materials
E. Trelleborg Engineered Systems
F. Universal Engineering
G. Vibra Screw Incorporated
Noise from impact points may be successfully treated through the installation of the
products listed in the following list. Consultation with the manufacturers regarding specific
applications is highly recommended in determining feasibility.
A. Hopper Liners and Wear Resistant Material
The following is a list of manufacturers that have retrofit noise controls available for
hoppers. Dealers should be contacted for specific needs and details.
1. Aggregates Equipment, Inc.

2. Ceramic Technology, Inc.
3. Cerline Ceramic Corporation
4. C.U.E., Inc.
5. Metso Minerals Industries, Inc.
6. Weir Minerals Linatex
For smaller hoppers and transfer areas, the retrofit noise controls for chutes may be
applicable. Acoustical operator enclosures with cameras may also be a solution. If a retrofit
kit is unavailable, acoustical materials may be purchased in bulk using Appendix B as a
reference.
74
B. Rock Boxes/Dead Beds
Another method to reduce the impact noise generated by the flow of material in
hoppers is to create rock boxes or dead beds. This allows the product to accumulate in impact
areas, resulting in the moving product impacting upon itself, instead of against the metal
hopper.
C. Wrapping Hopper with Composite Acoustical or Vibration Damping Material
Enclosing the entire hopper with a composite acoustical material can help contain
some of the noise generated from the flow of material. The walls of the hopper also vibrate
when material strikes them. This vibration can be reduced by applying or fastening a
vibration damping material to the walls. The material is designed to strengthen the walls and
reduce the resonance.
 Mills:
Regardless of the type of mill (rod, ball, roller, hammer, etc.), their function is to
reduce the size of the material that passes through them. This function is accomplished by
impacting the material with metal, thereby creating a noise source in a shell.
The following is a partial listing of OEMs that have mills used in the mining industry.
A. Humboldt Wedag, Inc.

B. F. L. Smidth, Inc.
C. Telsmith, Inc.
Information from the manufacturers’ indicates that there is no noise controls

incorporated into the design of this type of equipment.
75
The construction of an acoustically-treated operator control room or booth in

conjunction with remote-controlled video cameras should minimize the need for a miner to
be near the mill(s).
In some situations, the construction of a full or topless enclosure around a free-

standing mill(s) has been demonstrated to be an effective method of reducing the overall
sound levels for miners whose work station is in the area adjacent to the mill(s). Absorptive
acoustical material may be needed within or above such enclosures.
Depending upon the type of milling, the utilization of rubber or synthetic liners can be
very effective in reducing the overall sound levels.
The use of acoustical/thermal blankets is a technologically achievable engineering noise

control.
Retrofit noise control kits may be available from manufacturers listed in the following list.
Consultation with the manufacturers regarding specific applications is highly recommended
in determining feasibility.
A. Acoustical Systems, Inc.

B. BRD Noise & Vibration Control, Inc.
If a retrofit kit is unavailable for the aforementioned noise controls, the materials may
be purchased in bulk using Appendix B as a reference.
 Motors:
Motors are used throughout preparation plants to drive machinery, pumps, fans,
shaker screens, crushers, conveyor belts, etc.
The following is a listing of the OEMs for motors. Dealers and rebuild shops should
be contacted for specific needs and details.
A. Baldor Electric Company

76
B. General Electric
Information from the manufacturers indicates that there is no noise controls

incorporated into the new equipment of this type. The majority of noise associated with
motors is produced by the high-speed, revolving internal parts and the cooling fan blades.
One-directional cooling fan blades can be installed for noise control on motors. They are
quieter than the unidirectional ones.
This section is for motors without noise controls. The effectiveness of noise controls
is dependent upon the quality of both the acoustic materials and the installation techniques.
If a retrofit kit is unavailable, acoustical materials may be purchased in bulk using

Appendix B as a reference.
The enclosure can be a pre-fabricated metal, lead-vinyl curtain, or clear vinyl-strip

curtain. The type of enclosure chosen will generally be determined by the equipment’s
B. Acoustical Enclosure for Operators in the Area
Pre-fabricated operator enclosures can be purchased with acoustical windows/doors,

heating, air-conditioning, lighting, and communications already designed into the enclosure.
supplies.
There is no alternative technology for this.
 Pumps:
Pumps are utilized to either push or pull liquids through a tube or pipe. They can be
used to power automatic lubricating systems, provide water over shaker screens, reduce the
level of water in sumps, and move slurries through centrifugal dewaterers.
77
The following is a listing of OEMs for pumps used in the mining environment.
Dealers should be contacted for specific needs and details.
A. F.L. Smidth, Inc.

B. F.L. Smidth – Salt Lake City, Inc.
C. GIW Industries
D. Goodwin International
E. ITT – Goulds Pumps F. Robbins & Myers, Inc.
G. Versa-Matic Pump
Information from the manufacturers indicates that noise controls have not been
incorporated into equipment of this type since the equipment is designed to move either a
fluid or slurry. Many of the companies are precisely balancing the internal moving parts to
reduce vibration. The pumps are powered by electric motors, hydraulic fluid, or compressed
air. These power sources and/or pumps can sometimes be located inside buildings or
enclosures to help reduce the overall noise. This is dependent upon the size and location of
the equipment.
This section is for pumps that are without noise controls or are not located inside an
enclosure. The effectiveness of noise controls is dependent upon the quality of both the
acoustic materials and the installation techniques.
A. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.

B. Metso Minerals Industries, Inc.
C. Weir Minerals Linatex
If a retrofit kit is unavailable, the materials may be purchased in bulk using Appendix
B as a reference.
The majority of noise associated with pumps is produced by the motors/engines

needed to operate the pumps and the high-speed, revolving internal parts.
The enclosure can consist of a prefabricated metal enclosure or a site-built enclosure

using common building materials or dense loaded, vinyl-hanging curtain type arrangement.
The type of enclosure will generally be determined by the equipment’s dimensions, location,
maintenance requirements, and the cost of the enclosure. Another consideration would be if
the enclosure will be permanent or temporary.
B. Acoustical Enclosure for Operators in the Area
Pre-fabricated operator enclosures can be purchased with acoustical windows/doors,

78
supplies.
 Screens - Classifying:
Classifying screens are used both in preparation plants and outdoor facilities. They
come in a number of configurations, i.e. single, double, or triple decks, wet, dry, or heated.
Their basic function is to size the material that passes over them. This is accomplished by the
size of the openings in the screen decking.
The following list illustrates the OEMs that have noise controls available for screens
(classifying). Dealers should be contacted for specific needs and details.
A. C.U.E., Inc.
B. Derrick Corporation
C. Firestone Industrial Products Company
D. Goodman-Hewitt
E. Metso Minerals Industries, Inc.
F. Polydeck Screen Corporation
G. Tema Systems, Inc.
H. Weir Minerals Linatex
Information from the manufacturers indicates that there is some noise controls
incorporated into new equipment of this type. For classifying screens without noise controls,
additional retrofit noise controls are needed.
Retrofit Noise Controls (Screens with built-in noise controls):
A. Acoustically Treated Decking
Screening equipment (total unit comprised of frame, motors, and decking) is generally
ordered for specific customers needs; however, the decking is usually purchased from a
manufacturer separate from the one building the screen equipment. If the purchaser requests
acoustical decking and supplies, it will be installed on the new equipment according to the
specifications provided. This decking can be either rubber-clad, covered with a polyurethane
material, or a combination of both.
79
B. Pre-Specified Buyer Noise Controls
Screening equipment manufacturers will attempt to incorporate any noise controls

into the new equipment that the purchaser specifies at the time of the order.
Retrofit Noise Controls (Screens without noise controls):
This section is for classifying screens without noise controls. The effectiveness of
noise controls is dependent upon the quality of both the acoustic materials and installation
techniques.
If a retrofit kit is unavailable, acoustical materials may be purchased in bulk using Appendix
B as a reference.
The majority of noise associated with classifying screens is produced by the vibration
of the screen/frame and the material being transported over the screen.
A. Install New Decking Material
Replace the screen decking with newer polyurethane-based decking, if possible. This
would also include non-metallic or dampened steel side plates where material would also
impact.
B. Install New Suspension Springs Install new suspension springs to the deck
framing so that vibration is contained to the unit and isolated from other structures. These can
be in the form of rubber, coil spring, or air bag suspension, where applicable.
C. Acoustical Enclosure for Operators in the Area
Operator enclosures can be purchased prefabricated with acoustical windows/doors,

supplies.
D. Acoustical Enclosure around the Equipment
The enclosure can be a prefabricated metal, lead-vinyl curtain, or clear vinyl-strip

curtain type. The type of enclosure chosen will generally be determined by the equipment’s
dimensions, maintenance requirements, and cost of the enclosure.
E. Acoustical Enclosure around Drive Mechanisms
Fabricate small acoustical enclosures around drive mechanisms to isolate and control
this noise.
80
References:
 Tripathy, D.P, (1998), Noise Pollution, A.P.H Publishing Corporation, New Delhi,
pp. 79 - 87, 90 - 101.
 Scott D. F., Gray Son R. L., Edwa Rd A. Disease and Illness in U.S. Mining, 1983-
2001. J. of Occup. & Env. Medicine 46 (12), 1272, Dec. 2004.
 U.S. Dept. Of La Bor, Noise Control – A Guide for Workers and Employers, Occup.
Safety & Health Administration, p119.
 Sensogut, C., Cina R, I. An Empirical Model for the Noise Propagation in Open Cast
Mines – A Case Study, Applied Acoustics, 68, 1026, 2007.
 CHEN, J.D., TSAI, J.Y. Hearing Loss among Workers at an Oil Refinery in Taiwan.
Archives of Environmental Health, ISSN 003-996, 58, (1), 55, 2003. ]
 Poltev M. K. Occupational Health and Safety in Mining Industries. Mir Publishers,
Moscow, 5, 117, 1985.
 Al Joe W. W., Bobick T. G., Redmond, G. W., Bartholomae R.C. The Bureau of
Mines Noise Control Research Program, a 10-Year Review, Bureau of Mines
Information Circular, IC9004, 1985.
 International Labour Organization, Safety & health in small-scale surface mines – a
handbook, pp. 13, ISBN 92-2-112475-4, 2001.
 Shier ET. Al . Hole’s human anatomy and physiology, 7th edition, TM Higher
Education Group, Inc., 1996.
 Sensogut C. Industrial Noise in Mines and Labour Health. [In Turkish] Symp. on
Labour Health in Mining Industry, Karaelmas University, Zonguldak, pp. 73-77,
1998.
 Unver B. A study on the effects of noise experienced during mining cctivities on the
health of labour. Conference on Safety in Mines and Environmental Protection,
ISGUM, Ankara [In Turkish], pp. 83-98, 1995.
 Noise Control Regulations of Turkey, Official Gazette, 25325, 2003.
 BANA CH J. D. Mine Safety & health administration announces new health standard.
CAOHC update, pp. 2-3, Spring 2000.
 G Rella G., Patrucco, M. Environmental noise from a new surface mining project.
Proceedings SWEMP’96, Edited by R. Ciccu, Cagliari, pp. 1089-1096, 1996.
 TS 2606. Acoustic, the Evaluation of Noise from the Point of Social Life, Turkish
Standard, March Issue, pp. 1-6, 1977.
 TS 2711. General Principles for Sound Level Meters, Turkish Standard, April Issue,
pp. 1-10, 1977.
 TS 2604. Sensitive Sonometers, Turkish Standard, March Issue, pp. 7-10, 1977.
 Cina R, I. Noise Monitoring, Modelling and Mapping in Mining, PhD Thesis,
Graduate School of Pure and Applied Sciences, Selcuk University, Konya, pp. 141,
2005.
 Fausti, S., Wilming Ton, D., Helt, W., Konradmartin, D. Hearing Health and Care:
The Need for Improvised Hearing Loss Prevention and Hearing Conservation
Practices. Journal of Rehabilitation Research & Development, 42(4), 45, 2005.
 Bridges M et al, 1998, Noise reduction in coal handling and preparation plants,
Proceedings of the XIII International Coal Preparation Congress, Partridge AC and
Partridge IR (Eds), Paper D4.
 Commission of Enquiry, Environment & Planning, 1994, Establishment and
Operation Bengalla Open Cut Coal Mine Muswellbrook.
81

Noise Control in OC, UG & MPP

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Noise Control in OC, UG & MPP

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

NOISE IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL

ACTIVE AND PASSIVE METHODS OF NOISE

SUBJECT PAGE No.

 Active v/s Passive Control of Noise...................................................................1

 Noise control techniques.....................................................................................2

 Noise control at the sources................................................................................3

 Noise control on the path....................................................................................4

 Noise control at the receiver................................................................................6

 Noise control in Opencast mines..........................................................................7

o Evaluating noise controls for a haul truck - A case study...........10

o Evaluating noise controls for jumbo drills and bolters................14

 Noise control in Underground mines...................................................................21

 Noise control in Mineral Processing plants..........................................................56

Noise control is a methodology which includes certain activities for obtaining an

Control of noise in mines can be achieved by any of the following techniques:

 Reducing sound at the source,

The method or combination employed depends on the amount of noise reduction

Noise Control Techniques:

(1) Reduction of amplitude of the amplitude forces;

(2) Reduction of the response of various components to exciting forces;

(3) Change in the operating procedure.

 Control on the transmission path:

(1) Orientation and location enclosures;

(3) Pipe lagging;

(4) Acoustic screens;

(5) Absorption treatment.

 Control at the receiver:

(1) Ear plugs and ear muffs;

(2) Exposure control;

(3) Remote control;

(4) House of exposure;

(5) Education and publication;

(6) Sound proof booths.

Classification of engineering solution to a noise problem:

 Modification of the forces within the sources:

 Modification the path between the sound and the path:

(1) Vibration absorption;

(2) Vibration isolation.

 Modification of the path:

(1) Moving the operator;

Noise Control at Sources:

Pneumatic noise is created by sudden inrush or discharge of air like leaking

Noise Control on Path:

Depending upon the frequency, reactive, absorptive or combination types of silencers

On pipes carrying steam or hot fluids, lagging can be used as an alternative to

 Acoustic screens and barriers:

Where there is a high degree of reflection of sound waves, including multiple

Noise Control at the Receiver:

 Bull Dozer: Control measures include

(1) Installing mufflers on the diesel exhaust.

(3) Adding sound absorbing materials under ROPS-FOPS structure.

(4) Vibrating isolation material between engine and dash board.

(5) Wind shields.

 Front End Loader: Control measures include

(1) Exhaust muffler.

(3) Sound absorption material on all the cab interior surfaces.

 Scraper: Control measures include

(1) Exhaust silencer.

(2) Damping materials around the engine.

 The use of electric shot firing.

 Hydraulic Excavator, Loader:

 Processing Area Conveyors:

Evaluating Noise Controls for a Haul Truck - A case study: