Design of an automated dust suppression system for a quarry crusher.

Abstract

Dust emission from quarry crushers poses health risks and environmental concerns, especially in unregulated industrial settings. This project focused on the design of an automated dust suppression system that detects and controls airborne particulate matter using real-time monitoring. A review of related technologies highlighted the efficiency of sensor-based automation and the effectiveness of water-based suppression methods. The system was developed using a DSM501A dust sensor, an Arduino Uno microcontroller, a relay and a water pump, with data displayed via an LCD and logged on the serial monitor. In the methodology, simulated dust values were used to test the system response to varying concentrations, with the threshold set at 5000 µg/m³ as per OSHA guidelines. Results show a significant reduction in dust levels post-activation of the system, with efficiency above 70% in most trials. Additionally, the economic analysis confirmed the system’s viability with a project pay back period of less than three years. The solution presents a scalable and cost-effective approach for enhancing air quality in quarry environment.