Sound solutions for the machinery that keeps mining moving

Mining is not for the faint-hearted. It operates in remote locations, runs through the night, and relies on some of the world’s largest and loudest machines. It’s a world of extremes – but within that complexity lies tremendous opportunity for innovation.

In amongst these extremes, noise often gets pushed down the list. It’s never visible, but it’s always present. Over time, it wears down hearing, slows down maintenance, and adds friction to already high-pressure work. That’s where we come in.

AcousTech exists to bring silence to places where silence seems impossible. Our work lives at the intersection of science and sound. And we apply that thinking to help mining teams work smarter, safer, and with far less noise.

Maintenance that keeps mining people and productivity moving

When a crusher goes down or a dragline needs repairs, the ripple effects are felt fast. Maintenance is essential – but in many cases, the work itself is risky. Not just physically, but acoustically too.

At AcousTech we create acoustic solutions that support maintenance teams without compromising safety or productivity. Screens that move when the work moves. Curtains that block noise without blocking access. Enclosures that let pumps and fans keep running quietly in the background.

The right acoustic solutions gives maintenance crews the ability to do their job without shouting over machinery or working under constant pressure from noise.

No single maintenance approach fits every mine site

Maintenance strategies vary from site to site. Some prefer a run-to-failure model, others rely on strict schedules. Many are now turning to data and condition-based monitoring. The most advanced teams build custom strategies based on equipment behaviour.

Each approach has benefits. Each carries risk. What matters is how the program fits the mine’s people, its equipment, and the environment.

Approach	Description	Investment level	Why it works	What to watch
Reactive	Repairs made after failure	Low	Useful for low-priority gear	Can lead to unexpected costs
Preventive	Maintenance done on a set schedule	Moderate	Extends equipment life when managed well	Can waste resources if not reviewed regularly
Predictive	Monitors equipment to guide timing	High	Makes decisions based on real data	Requires investment in sensors and training
Reliability centred	Tailors strategy to how each system fails	Highest	Most precise and resource-efficient method	Needs time and technical depth to develop

AcousTech works with mining teams to find the right acoustic fit for the strategy already in place. The result is a system that supports maintenance without interrupting it.

Noise control to address risks in mining

In mining, risk is part of the job – but it’s never ignored. And that means the risks from noise in mining must be addressed.

Acoustic systems play a quiet but powerful role in reducing exposure and improving safety across a range of high-pressure scenarios.

Flood

Water is one of mining’s most persistent threats. Whether it’s groundwater or sudden rainfall, water can shut down mining operations and damage equipment. Pumps work hard to keep water out – but they bring serious noise with them.

What AcousTech do about water noise
We design acoustic enclosures and louvres that reduce noise without blocking access or airflow

Seismic activity

Underground movement is unpredictable. Rock bursts and seismic shifts can damage structures and create unsafe conditions.

What AcousTech do about seismic pressure
We build systems with structural resilience that continue performing even under seismic pressure

Conveyor fire risk

Conveyors stretch for kilometres and move ore around the clock. When flammable dust builds up, the risk of fire rises fast.

What AcousTech do to address fire risk
We install fire-resistant acoustic barriers around high-risk areas to limit both sound and spark

Tailings transport

Tailings are carried through long pipelines that often run across the surface. These systems generate persistent noise that affects both staff and nearby communities.

What AcousTech do about tailings
We use acoustic cladding and barriers to lower noise without affecting flow or access

Machinery breakdowns

When machinery fails, crews must act quickly. These repairs often happen in loud, exposed environments.

What AcousTech do to address breakdowns
We provide mobile acoustic panels that let teams work in quieter, safer spaces right next to the equipment

Fire and explosion

Coal dust, gas and heat can combine into dangerous conditions. Suppression systems protect the site but can cause damage and noise of their own.

What AcousTech do about explosion risk
We design systems that can tolerate extreme conditions and recover quickly after fire or flood

Acoustic science supporting the people who make mining possible

AcousTech is not here to sell generic solutions. Our goal is to build trust and protect people’s hearing while helping operations run smoothly. To do this, we combine acoustic science with real-world practicality, and we partner with teams who want to do things better.

Whether you are looking to support your maintenance crews, reduce risk, or simply make your site a little more workable, AcousTech are ready to help.

Quiet might not be the first thing people associate with mining, but we believe it should be part of the story!

To get started with an AcousTech specialist, call 1300 508 232.

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That’s the Science of Silence.