As aggregate producers and mine operators prepare for stricter Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) regulations on respirable crystalline silica and airborne dust, Superior Industries spotlights new dust control solutions for conveyor transfer points and load zones.
The conveyor manufacturer's new adjustable skirtboard systems and RockGuard skirting liners are engineered for flexibility across multiple conveyor configurations, without the need for any custom fabrication.
"Many new conveyors arrive on site with standard OEM skirtboards that simply aren't long or tall enough for real-world applications," said Chris Mullen, a conveyor components territory manager of Superior in the Southeast United States. "Because MSHA considers dust control an engineering responsibility of the mine operator, it requires turning what is often an open, uncontrolled environment into a sealed system that manages airflow and dust."
Engineered for Conveyor Specific Adjustability
Superior's adjustable skirtboards deliver affordable transfer point and load-zone containment, cutting dust, spillage, cleanup and worker risks. Skirtboard systems are engineered with a modular, adjustable design that allows operators to fine-tune length and height for each conveyor application, while creating a more effective seal along the belt to reduce fugitive dust, according to Superior Industries.
Eliminating the need for custom engineering and costly installation, skirtboard systems are easily adjustable in 3-in. increments. Mounting legs are designed for easy onsite trimming and fitting, which also simplifies installation, according to Superior Industries.
Complementing the skirtboards, Superior's RockGuard skirting liners are designed to contain material within the transfer zone while reducing dust, spillage and preventing material buildup on the shelf of the liner.
"By combining adjustable skirtboards with RockGuard liners, producers protect the skirtboard structure itself, extending the life of the entire skirting system while reducing rebuild cycles and long term maintenance costs," said Mullen.
For sites where dust levels remain elevated, the modular skirtboard system can be expanded with belt covers, tail enclosures or a stilling box. The stilling box controls dust mechanically, requiring no water or electrical power, which reduces maintenance demands and avoids moisture-related belt wear, according to Superior Industries. These components can be added at any stage of the conveyor's lifecycle, giving operators flexibility as site conditions evolve.
Driven by Regulatory Urgency
Since their introduction, Superior's adjustable skirtboards have seen strong adoption, particularly among producers proactively preparing for MSHA compliance, according to the company.
"When you see that level of investment, it tells us that producers are taking the new silica regulations seriously — not just because of potential citations, but because of employee safety and long-term operational risk," Mullen said.
MSHA citations for silica exposure can carry significant financial penalties, and repeat violations may result in increased inspection frequency. That's why, for many producers, investing in effective dust control solutions is increasingly viewed as both a compliance strategy and a workforce safety measure.
For more information, visit superior-ind.com.
