Steel recycling facilities play a vital role in environmental sustainability and economic growth, but they also come with significant challenges, chief among them, noise pollution. These facilities often generate noise levels far exceeding safe thresholds, creating risks for workers and disturbances for nearby communities. A groundbreaking solution is now available: sound-absorptive noise barriers like Sound Fighter® Systems’ SonaGuard® noise barrier walls.
The Noise Problem in Steel Recycling
Steel recycling processes involve heavy machinery such as furnaces, rolling mills, shredders, and conveyors. Studies have shown that noise levels in these environments frequently surpass the recommended occupational safety limit of 85 dB(A), with some areas reaching as high as 110 dB(A) during operations. Prolonged exposure to such levels can lead to Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL), which affects over 33% of steelworkers globally. Beyond workplace safety, these high decibel levels often disrupt the quality of life for surrounding communities, leading to complaints and strained relations between facilities and residents.
The SonaGuard® Solution
Sound Fighter® Systems has developed the SonaGuard® noise barrier system to address these pressing issues. Unlike traditional noise barriers that merely reflect sound waves, SonaGuard® panels are fully sound-absorptive, effectively capturing and dissipating noise energy. Key features include:
- Exceptional Acoustic Performance: With a Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) of 1.05 and a Sound Transmission Class (STC) of 35, SonaGuard® panels significantly reduce noise dBA levels.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Constructed from reinforced fiberglass materials, these panels are impervious to rust, corrosion, and environmental wear, ensuring long-term performance.
- Aesthetic Design: The panels feature a shiplap design available in various colors to blend seamlessly into industrial or community settings.
- Ease of Installation: Lightweight and modular, SonaGuard® barriers can be quickly installed without heavy equipment, minimizing disruption during setup.
Proven Success
Facilities that have implemented sound barriers like SonaGuard® have seen dramatic improvements. For example, a scrap metal recycling plant in Newport reduced its noise pollution by up to 80% via the use of an engineered sound wall, earning praise from both local officials and residents. Similarly, Sound Fighter® Systems has successfully deployed its barriers across industries ranging from data centers to battery energy storage (BESS) facilities.
A Call to Action
As the steel recycling industry continues to grow, addressing noise pollution is no longer optional, it is essential for worker safety, regulatory compliance, and community well-being. Sound Fighter® Systems invites steel recycling operators to explore how SonaGuard® noise barriers can transform their facilities into quieter, more community-friendly operations.
For more information about SonaGuard® or to schedule a consultation, please contact Sound Fighter® Systems: info@soundfighter.com, Tel: 318-861-6640.
