How to design a Pump Noise Control solution?
Controlling noise levels in the industry is a constant concern to protect employees and create as safe a working environment as possible. Industrial pumps have a noise level of about 110 dB (A) but to comply with noise regulations at work, it is required to reduce it to 75 dB (A) at a distance of one meter.
There are usually a number of elements that collectively make up an effective pump noise control solution. Vibration isolation mounts help control transmitted structural noise from the high-powered motor and resonance through the enclosure. A custom acoustic structure is designed for the pump specified in terms of volume and noise output, using acoustic wall panels and ceilings to form a modular enclosure. Soundproof doors and windows to provide access for maintenance and monitoring purposes. More access can be added for repair or replacement with large removable panels and access hatches, without compromising the acoustic integrity of the structure. All internal surfaces must be absorbent to control any echo build-up, which in turn prevents the chance of the source noise level increasing resulting in a higher than expected external noise level.
Ventilation and safety systems are an essential part of the pump system and must be effectively integrated into the design of the acoustic enclosure. The aeration system is vital to the effective operating performance of the pump – it provides airflow through the enclosure to cool the pump assembly, maintaining optimum operating temperature through duct silencers and suction fans. Integrated safety systems include mission and emergency lighting and fire suppression systems – again with detailed integration into the acoustic enclosure and back into the mast control panel.
 The complete case must be tested and certified according to BS EN ISO 11546-2:2009 to ensure that the pump assembly is operating; it will reach 75 decibels (A) at a distance of 1 meter as indicated. There are a number of factors to consider when attaching a pump noise source that has both operational performance and safety implications – all of this need to work in synergy, requiring in-depth engineering knowledge and acoustic knowledge to ensure a high-quality level of performance.
Hodgson Acoustics has extensive experience in noise control enclosures for all types of noise source equipment including pumps, compressors, fans, generators and other heavy machinery.
Top 07 ways to reduce Fan Noise Control
Excess noise can be distracting and in some cases harmful to health. Working in a noisy environment is not fun, and taking steps to reduce exposure to unwanted sounds is good for workplace productivity and safety.
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Damping to reduce vibration
Typically used in applications such as chutes, hoppers, plates and tanks, damping typically uses two methods to reduce noise: layer damping, in which a layer of bituminous damping material is affixed to the surface, and layer damping, which is more rugged and involves laminate construction.
Maxideck and Maxiboard Sound Reduction Systems (SRS) can help with sound insulation of floors. Maxideck, an acoustic flooring solution, can be used in the kitchens and bathrooms. It provides high levels of air and shock insulation when used on timber. It can be used to comply with the approved Document E of the Building Regulations (2003), is easy to install and is only 28 mm thick.
Maxiboard sound insulation for ceilings and floors can also help meet Part E regulations and can be used to form independent enclosures and structures. It takes direct screws and bolts, which is very durable, but only 17mm thick.
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Fans working efficiently
Oddly enough, when fans work at their maximum efficiency, they are at their quietest. Common noise reduction features are bends near the fan and dampers. To lower up to 12 dB, make sure there are at least 2-3 duct diameters of straight ductwork between any feature that may disturb the flow and the fan itself.
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Prevent noise carried by air ducts
Ducts are typically used for extraction, ventilation, and cooling, and include openings in walls and enclosures. Instead of the installing silencers, it is often possible to achieve10-20 dB reduction in airborne noise from the duct or orifice by lining the last bend in the ductwork with foam or fiberglass, or creating an absorbent and right-angled lined right-angle bend to fit at the opening.
SRS has two products that can be used. The acoustic jack and service boxes are made from two layers of high density 10mm thick gypsum board and will ensure the acoustic integrity of any metal or wood frame partition wall containing sockets and/or services. Meanwhile, the Soundstop 5 is a multi-purpose acoustic barrier ideal for ceiling voids or inside dividing walls.Â
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Fan configuration
In axial or centrifugal flow fans, you can increase fan noise control by simply changing control systems or pulley sizes and resetting the dampers.
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Installing silencers for air exhaust
Air exhaust noise can be reduced by up to 30 dB by installing silencers. for back pressure, install a larger coupling and muffler; For blockage, you need a direct muffler, while multiple exhausts can be manifolded into one pipe of a larger diameter.
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6 Using high-efficiency pneumatic nozzles
Pneumatic nozzles are often used for cooling, drying and the blowing. You can usually replace existing vents with quiet, highly efficient units that can reduce noise by up to 10 db.
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Install vibration isolation pads
Typically used on machine feet, pumps, and mezzanine fixtures, vibration isolation pads are typically made of bonded rubber or cork to reduce vibration and noise pollution.
The Acoustilay System from SRS is ideal for undermount washers. It improves the sound insulation performance of wood floors and greatly reduces the impact noise through concrete and wood floors. Acoustilay simply applies under most flooring finishes and can replace a traditional carpet underlayment.