Sandvik launches noise solutions

Sandvik Mining and Rock Technology has introduced two new solutions for the noise reduction of top hammer drill rigs.

The NoiseGuard-DXi and NoiseShield-DC work by isolating the rock drill and rod handling system inside a noise-suppressing structure, thereby reducing the sound level around the drill rig.

Designed for construction applications and quarries, the manufacturer said its NoiseGuard-DXi reduces noise emissions from Ranger-DXi series drill rigs by up to 95%.

The fully enclosed structure provides up to -12.9 dB noise reduction in A-weighted sound pressure within a 16 m (52 ft) radius of the rig. It’s suitable for use with Ranger-DXi drill rigs with a maximum 27 kW rock drill and a recommended hole diameter of 51 to 127 mm (2 to 5 in).

For smaller, cabinless Dino DC410Ri drill rigs up to 14kW rock drill with recommended hole diameters of 51 to 76 mm (2 to 3 in), manufacturer Sandvik has launched the NoiseShield-DC. Said to offer noise reduction of up to -7.5 dB, its partially enclosed structure directs the drilling noise upwards through an open top and away from the operator and surrounding areas.

According to the company, EU directives, occupational health and safety legislation, environmental regulations and various safety standards fuelled the requirement for noise-limiting technology.

Sandvik said its new solutions were beneficial to the surrounding areas and reduce operators’ and worksite personnel’s exposure to harmful noise levels, thereby making a more comfortable working environment.