THERE’S a significant problem with conventional methods of ‘modelling’ when managing noise associated with mine sites, ports and refineries – they potentially limit revenue and stymie operational effectiveness.

How? Well, put simply, they are merely blunt-force implements that predict static, worst-case scenarios to determine operational noise impacts on communities.

These worse case scenarios are, in effect, estimations that result in high error margins, uncertainty and overly conservative productivity targets.

But all that has changed with the development of Nexus.

It’s a paradigm shift in noise management using modelling plus monitoring that overcomes the inaccuracy and mistrust that plague current conventions.

And it accomplishes this right before your eyes – real time data benefiting real time operations.

By coupling recent advancements with the latest technology, Nexus:

  • Addresses specific and variable circumstances,
  • Takes into account all aspects of the environment in which you operate,
  • Removes barriers to optimal efficiency, performance and the achievement of commercial goals,
  • Integrates seamlessly into your established operational protocol.

That’s what Nexus does but what does it do for clients specifically? It ensures that site-based managers and operators can expect improved performance both in the field and on the balance sheet thanks to Nexus’s:

  • Fact-based planning using forecast and predictive data,
  • Real-time compliance tools that clear the path for adaptive management and risk-mitigated operations,
  • ROI based on enhanced ability to forecast accurately and adaptively manage effectively,
  • Ease of use allowing for informed decision making at a glance,

In other words, Nexus real time data benefits real time operations.

Noise as you’ve never seen it before

Complex environments require detailed technologies

It is widely understood that industrial and mining areas are highly complex noise environments. They include noise created from diverse sources such as other industries or mines that are situated close to your operation, transportation, communities and weather. Nexus’ authoritative predictive capability combined with real-time monitoring offers the most comprehensive noise management solution on the market – providing the most accurate indication of just how much noise your activity is impacting surrounding communities. In short, Nexus takes all the in-depth detail and turns it into an interactive, easy-to-use system.

 

But accuracy is everything

‘About’, ‘give or take’ and ‘around’ are some of the most frightening words for a production manager, scheduler, mine planner or head of operations to hear in relation to reported noise levels versus allowable levels.

They can directly affect schedules, output and of course balance sheets.

It’s a problem because where there is doubt, it’s doubtful that full potential (aka optimal performance) can be achieved, let alone sustained over time.

 

 

The Nexus difference makes all the difference

So, to the critical question – how accurate is “nexus accurate”?

The company validated and compared Nexus predictions with actual measurements at a number of locations for a number of clients from mines, refineries and ports.

Upon validation, it was shown that the average error registered between just 0.3 and 2.2 dB over more than 30,000 predicted modelling points at each location when compared to the same number of measurements.

If it is considered that there is an inherent error in the measurements themselves the level of accuracy offered using Nexus, combined with the easy-to-access, depth of data provides a platform that allows the scheduling and execution of operations with confidence.

The Nexus difference therefore, is in fact, the difference between operating very conservatively and dealing with those opportunity costs, and being able to plan more aggressively in pursuit of fulfilling potential, both in the field and on the balance sheet.

 

Vanguard Technologies noise consultant Granger Bennett

 

Working on technology that works in your industry

According to Vanguard Technologies noise consultant Granger Bennett, expertise in applied problem-solving within industries – where efficiencies go hand in hand with compliance – is a highly sought-after commodity.

“Coupled with practical experience in the field as well as an understanding of both corporate and organisational imperatives, our team of specialists established a company dedicated to translating progressive thought into commercial benefit,” he said.

Vanguard Technologies was created specifically to meet the needs of industries looking to increase production output, efficiencies and achieve budgets while in primarily noise-constrained areas.

Clients rely on Vanguard to develop simple solutions, with robust technology to generate excellent results.

“Our deep understanding of commercial, production and management challenges means that our research and development is always geared to solving real issues that affect real companies,” Mr Bennett said.

“New technology development remains at the heart of what we do and our team is always available to discuss how our work can increase the effectiveness and efficiencies that drive yours.

“To talk with us about how our work can assist you in achieving your production and commercial objectives, feel free to contact us directly.”

 

More Information:

Address: Level 1, 604 Newcastle St, Leederville WA 6007

Phone: 1300 251 070

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.vanguardtech.com.au

 

Nexus vs the conservative past

So how does Nexus and its revolutionary integration of modelling and monitoring measure up against conventional tech? Here’s a comparison:

Nexus noise management (modelling and monitoring) technologyConventional methods using monitoring systems
o   Forward-looking and predictive based on meaningful data (i.e. incorporates past data, as well as present and future considerations).

 

o   Noise predictions and monitored data combine to allow separation between industry or mine noise and background noise, as well as assisting with validation, inversion detection and continuous improvement.

 

o   Extra layers of extensive analysis and reporting capabilities from 1000s of locations, equipment contributions, spectral analysis, comparison with planned and actual – all increasing certainty and understanding.

 

o   Uses the entire range of available data sets including FMS, collision avoidance, SCADA and weather.

 

o   Provides real-time noise contour maps, converting technical noise data into easily-digested visual representations.

 

o   Eliminates the arduous necessity of listening to hours of audio analysis during investigations.

 

o   Cost effective, doesn’t require maintenance and high CAPEX investment.

 

  • Only works with historical data, doesn’t consider the plan, the present or the future.

 

 

 

  • Measurements are geospatially confined to a single location.

Impossible to separate industry or mine noise from background noise (for which the industry or mine is not responsible).

 

  • Offers limited analysis capabilities, often only trading in absolutes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Works with limited data sets, ignores data from FMS, collision avoidance systems, and SCADA.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Expensive systems that require re-calibration, maintenance and replacement.

 

 

 

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