Compressor and fan noise is one of the most common issues in industries, especially those involving manufacturing processes. It is easy to understand why: the sound created by these machines is loud and annoying, but it is also potentially dangerous. However, there are many ways to control compressor and fan noise if you know how to go about it. Here are some of them!
Ways to Control Compressor & Fan Noise
1. Silencers
A silencer is used to reduce the noise level of compressors and fans. There are different types of silencers such as silencers for single stage compressors, for two stage compressors, for circulating fans and many more. It is important to select the right type of silencer depending on your requirement.
Silencers work by converting kinetic energy into thermal energy through internal friction at its cavity walls. This converts mechanical energy into acoustic energy which results in less sound production from your equipment. So, for fan noise control, silencers can work great!
The best time to use a silencer is during start-up or shutdown periods when there is no load on the compressor/fan motor and hence noise levels can be reduced effectively by using a suitable type of silencer during these times!
2. Exhaust Scrubbers
Exhaust scrubbers are a very effective noise control method. The exhaust fan is fitted with an activated carbon or a fabric filter which removes the oil and dust from the air. This filter also absorbs sound waves as well as reduces their velocity. These filters have to be replaced after certain intervals, depending on their capacity and usage.
When used together with duct silencers, these filters can reduce sound levels by up to 40%. They are cost-effective and easy to install in any industry where there is high level of noise pollution due to operations near compressor stations or air-conditioning systems, etc., such as warehouses, hospitals, factories etc.
3. Attenuators
Attenuators are used to reduce the sound level of a noise source. An attenuator is a device that converts sound energy into heat or another form of energy. It can be used to reduce the sound level at a specific point or area.
Attenuators are usually made up of two components: an absorber and an amplifier (or “horn”). The absorber converts some of the incident sound into heat while amplifying the remaining waves and directing them away from this location with minimal distortion.
4. Ductwork Redesign
The noise and vibration produced by air compressors and fans can be reduced by redesigning the ductwork. The following are some tips to reduce compressor noise:
- Use flexible, corrugated metal or plastic ducts designed for low-noise applications.
- Ensure that the ducts do not have any sharp bends in them, as these may causeturbulence, which causes noise and vibration.
- Make sure you have enough support for your ductwork to prevent sagging or collapse of the system under pressure, which will cause vibrations and noises from rattling pipes and colliding air streams.
5. Acoustic Panel Linings
Acoustic panel linings are a great way to reduce noise in your facility. The panels are made of materials that absorb sound, such as foam, fibreglass or mineral wool.
These panels can be used on walls, ceilings and other surfaces to help control noise from machines and people. The best part is that acoustic panels look great too. So, this is a great method for compressor noise control!
6. Acoustic Enclosures
Acoustic enclosures are soundproof rooms that can be used to control noise. These enclosures are used in industries, laboratories, and offices alike to control the noise generated by various equipment. Acoustic Enclosures:
- Control fan and compressor noise effectively;
- Reduce structural vibrations caused due to fan/compressor operation;
- Absorb sounds of fans and compressors.
7. Air Intake Silencers
Air intake silencers are used to reduce the noise generated by the fan. They are usually placed near the fan and can be designed in a variety of ways. The most common way is to use ductwork attached to an air inlet box, which will house the silencer and allow it to be easily replaced if needed.
Another way is through a combination of sound attenuating materials, including baffles made from rubber, foam or plastic; absorptive materials like fibreglass insulation; or metal partitions between different pieces of equipment.
8. Vibration Isolators
Vibration isolators are used to isolate a machine or equipment from a floor, foundation, or other structure. They can also be used to reduce vibration and noise.
Vibration isolators work by reducing the transmission of vibrations from one surface to another by means of mechanical decoupling or elastic deformation. This allows vibrations from one surface (such as machinery) to flow into an elastically deformable material (such as rubber) instead of into a solid substrate (such as concrete).
9. Noise Absorption Panels
Noise absorption panels are one of the best ways to control fan and compressor noise in industrial facilities. The panels work by absorbing the sound that enters them using a porous material, which prevents it from bouncing off other surfaces and repeating back into your ear.
Noise absorption panels come in many different materials, shapes, sizes and colours so they can be used in any type of industry or facility! These soundproofing devices are perfect for warehouses because they allow employees to talk without raising their voices above what’s normal conversation level. This makes it easier for workers who have hearing loss caused by age or illness—they don’t have to shout at each other over loud machinery!
The only drawback is that these baffles may not be suitable if you need something that blocks out all sounds coming from outside your building (such as construction work going on nearby).
10. Soundproof Enclosures
Soundproof enclosures are one of the best ways to control fan and compressor noise. The enclosure can be made from different materials including concrete, metal and glass.
It is important to know that soundproof enclosures have a major impact on the design of your building; therefore, it is very important to consider this factor before you make any decisions regarding noise control in industries.
An enclosure can be designed according to the size and shape of your industrial plant. There are many advantages of using an enclosure in your industry such as:
- It reduces fan noise by deflecting air away from its path.
- It increases resistance between pipes which results in better efficiency during operation.
Conclusion to Control Compressor & Fan Noise
These are just a few of the ways to control compressor and fan noise in industries. There are other methods as well, such as enclosing the compressor in a soundproof enclosure or using vibration isolators between the fan and foundation.
These techniques can help reduce overall noise levels and make your work environment more comfortable for everyone working there!