www.hpmag.co.uk HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS January/February 2025 41 vibrations and reduce mechanical noise, improving both the working conditions for operators and the durability of the equipment. A prime example is Clippard Spider valves, known for their exceptionally quiet operation with lower noise and vibration levels. These valves are especially effective in packaging lines, where pneumatic actuators perform tasks like bottle capping or product sorting. Another example is Dematic’s global launch of its noise reduction portfolio. These products are specifically designed to address noise in environments like packaging lines and material handling systems, all of which are sources of high noise levels on food and beverage lines. The portfolio uses 3D noise mapping to diagnose and visualise noise levels in a facility, much like how a heatmap identifies temperature hazards, providing a clear, data-driven understanding of the acoustic challenges within the space. Dematic then recommends quieter equipment, such as rollers, slats and belt conveyors, which are designed to reduce noise levels by up to 15 dB. Is PPE not enough? Despite these advancements, 28% of workers in manufacturing report not wearing hearing protection in noisy environments — that’s according to the aforementioned CDC report. This alarming statistic reiterates the importance of integrating quieter machinery and automation systems, which address noise at its source rather than relying solely on personal protective equipment (PPE). That’s not to say PPE isn’t necessary, because it is. However, automation aligns with best practice for reducing noise exposure, especially when stricter measures are required for machinery louder than 85 dB. As food and beverage manufacturers must focus on workforce health and safety, integrating quieter automation technologies is crucial not only for meeting regulatory standards but also for enhancing operational efficiency. For further information please visit: https://foxmere.com/en
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