The measurement and practical effectiveness of noise attenuation kits for mobile equipment

The control of noise emissions from mobile equipment in quarry and mine sites plays a critical role in mitigating noise impacts to meet project noise limits while maximizing production capacity. To meet stringent noise limits, sites are commonly required to reduce noise emissions from mobile plants. This is typically achieved through the implementation of retrofit noise attenuation kits. This paper explores a number of case studies in which noise attenuation kits are installed, comparing sound power level measurement methodologies and assessing the effectiveness of attenuation kits through the analysis of resulting reductions in sound power level. Case studies involve the application of sound power tests in accordance with ISO test standards, and the comparison of practical results against theoretical predictions to assess the true effectiveness of attenuation kits.