RACA Journal February 2026 RACA_Feb_2026 | Page 9

MINE VENTILATION FEATURE SERIES

QUIET MINING NOISE REVOLUTION

By Eamonn Ryan

ABC Ventilation Systems tackles mining noise with innovative HDPE silencers.

Noise pollution stands as one of the most pressing and dangerous challenges within the mining industry. Beyond immediate discomfort, prolonged exposure carries significant health risks, including hearing loss, and presents the looming threat of class-action lawsuits.

A groundbreaking South African-designed noise reduction technology is poised to transform underground working conditions and broader industrial environments, according to Terry Pearce, managing director at ABC Ventilation Systems.

Speaking at the Mine Ventilation Society of Southern Africa( MVSSA) annual exhibition, Pearce explained that ABC Ventilation Systems has dedicated considerable time and engineering expertise to the acoustics of dampening the pervasive noise generated by underground ventilation fans. " One of the biggest drives in the industry right now is noise and the prevention of its effects," Pearce stated, highlighting the urgency of their mission. The company ' s key innovation is their HardLine Silencer constructed from HDPE( High-Density Polyethylene) plastics. This barrel-shaped device is fire-rated, anti-static and fully compliant with necessary regulations and industry specifications. Its core lies in an internal acoustic material engineered to absorb noise across different frequencies. Designed to be fitted to both the intake and delivery sides of a ventilation fan, the silencer aims to reduce noise levels from 115dB down to a safer 80-85dB, potentially even lower.

Pearce emphasised that while silencers are not entirely new, " other companies have been building them out of steel ". The distinct advantage of ABC Ventilation System ' s product is its use of a plastic polymer which, according to Pearce,“ yields a lot better results than what steel does, particularly in terms of reverb and the absorption of diverse frequencies.”

" Another promising development is a prototype called an‘ acoustic pillow’ designed for the intake side of the fan," Pearce said. " This component features a smooth, controlled airflow path, preventing noise breakout and significantly reducing the‘ breakout noise’ that is a major contributor to hearing issues. While still in the prototype phase and undergoing patent protection, this concept is highly promising, with a target launch around 2026. Crucially, this advanced silencer is fully designed and manufactured in South Africa. While similar products might exist globally, they haven ' t achieved widespread adoption in mining, largely due to cost. Our South African-designed solution aims to be a more cost-effective answer to noise attenuation."

Pearce highlighted that South Africa has its own specific noise targets which, while not always directly mirroring global standards, contribute to the country ' s reputation for having high mining standards. These ambitious milestones pose a significant challenge but are essential for improving the lives of those within the mining industry. With typical mines operating Terry Pearce, managing director hundreds of ventilation fans at ABC Ventilation Systems. across various sections, the potential for widespread impact is immense.

INDUSTRY RESPONSE AND FUTURE TRAJECTORY " The response from miners and industry professionals has been overwhelmingly positive," said Pearce. " There’ s real excitement around a proactive, engineered solution that directly addresses safety. It’ s something the industry hasn’ t seen before, and the appreciation has been clear."

He added, " This reinforces our commitment to innovation. We’ re mandated to launch at least four new products every two years. Currently, we have three in the research and development phase, and we are working towards this goal with our global group— including operations in the US, Canada, Chile and Australia— South African innovation is making a global impact."

“ It’ s exciting to see our designs come to life and make a real impact. The engagement from industry professionals— their questions, their recognition of the value— shows the clear potential these solutions have to improve safety and health in the workplace,” Pearce concluded. RACA

All images by © RACA Journal mine ventilation

BROAD APPLICABILITY BEYOND THE MINE The applications of this noise reduction technology extend far beyond the mining sector. Pearce explained that any industry utilising rotational equipment where noise is a concern could benefit. This includes the HVAC industry, and manufacturing facilities with numerous ventilation fans. Furthermore, many mine ventilation fans are located on surface, often near community areas, contributing to noise pollution for residents. This technology offers a solution to mitigate such broader environmental impacts.

RACA Journal I February 2026

HardLine Silencer constructed from HDPE( High-Density Polyethylene) plastics. www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za 7