Vibrations and acoustics are two closely related fields. Acoustics is vibrations in air which can be caused by vibrations in ground. When blasting rock, both vibrations in the ground and in air is generated. We can measure the pressure at the shockwave as well as vibrations in the ground and on buildings close to the site. This is most often performed near open pit minings or when blasting rock during preparations for construction. Another example is where the use of heavy machines causes vibrations in the ground affecting adjacent buildings, which is a common case in dense areas in cities.
Before establishing an open pit an investigation of external noise is conducted, where predicted sound pressure levels to the surroundings are calculated. This is important during blasting but also when drilling, crushing, loading and using trucks etc. Measurements can then be made when the open pit is running to verify that the calculations are reliable.
Contact us if you are curious about investigations concerning open pit mining or other activities that causes vibrations!