Meeting European Noise Regulations for Rubber-Tired Front End Loaders

Major legislation has been established in Europe governing the noise levels of heavy construction equipment. Level limits, test procedures, data acquisition techniques, and future legislation of several European countries are presented specifically for rubber tired front end loaders.

Techniques utilized in determining problem source components and methods employed in attenuation of the vehicle to comply with the existing legislation are also discussed. Special attention is given to the spectator level where the regulation limits are most stringent. However, many of the modifications shown are also effective in reducing operator station noise levels.