Pump Noise Control: Causes and Prevention
Noise can be generated when machines and components operate in a pump plant. Therefore, noise control measures should be taken as required.
Before deciding the right prevention method, the environmental conditions around the plant should be considered. In addition, installation conditions also need to be checked. This helps identify the source of noise more clearly.
Why Is Noise Control Important?
Noise control is important to support better operating conditions in the pump plant area. However, the source of noise should be verified first.
Several points need to be studied, including the source of noise, noise characteristics, and the routes of noise transmission. As a result, prevention measures can be planned more properly.
In addition, component layout should also be considered. Machine position, equipment arrangement, and the ceiling area of the pump plant may affect how noise spreads.
Key Points in Noise Control
When planning noise control measures, the following points should be considered:
- Sources of noise from each machine and component.
- Noise characteristics during equipment operation.
- Routes of noise transmission, through air or solid objects.
- Component arrangement and layout in the pump plant area.
- Condition of each machine and supporting equipment.
- Ceiling, wall, and floor areas of the pump plant.
By understanding these points, noise prevention can be planned more comprehensively.
Causes of Noise in Pumps and Pump Plants
The following are several causes of noise that should be noted in pumps and pump plants:
1. Diesel Engines and Gas Turbines
Diesel engines and gas turbines can generate noise during operation. This noise comes from machine operation and internal components.
2. Air Exhaust
Air exhaust from diesel engines and gas turbines can also become a source of noise. Therefore, the exhaust area should be considered in noise control planning.
3. Electric Motors
Electric motors can generate noise from fans and mechanical operation. In addition, motor condition may also affect the noise level.
4. Electric Motors and Transformers
Electric motors and transformers can generate electromagnetic noise. Examples include beats and humming during equipment operation.
5. Gear Reducers
Gear reducers can generate noise due to engagement of gear tooth surfaces. Gear condition and reducer operation may affect the noise produced.
6. Water Lifting by Pumps
Water lifting by pumps can also cause noise. This is especially noted in vertical shaft type pumps with the impeller located on the floor.
7. Valves and Pipes
Water flowing through valves and pipes can generate noise. In addition, vibration due to pulsation may also occur in the piping system.
8. Cavitation and Vibration
Cavitation and vibration of valves and pumps should be considered. Both can create abnormal sound during pump operation.
9. Auxiliary Equipment
Auxiliary equipment can also become a source of noise. Examples include vacuum pumps, air compressors, and geared pumps.
10. Ancillary Equipment
Ancillary equipment such as trash rakes, conveyors, ventilation fans, and cooling towers can generate noise during operation. Although they are not the main pump equipment, they still contribute to the noise level in the plant area.
11. Outdoor Exhaust Pipes and Silencers
Exhaust noise can come from exhaust pipes and silencers installed outdoors. Because they are located outside, their effect on the surrounding environment should also be considered.
12. Flap Valves for Low-Head Pumps
For low-head pumps, flap valves can generate closing noise. This noise usually occurs when the flap valve closes.
13. Walls, Floors, and Ceilings
Small vibrations of walls, floors, and ceilings can cause secondary noise radiation. These vibrations are caused by machine operation and may be transmitted through solid objects.
Conclusion
Pump noise can come from many sources. These include diesel engines, electric motors, valves, pipes, cavitation, vibration, auxiliary equipment, and ancillary equipment.
Therefore, noise control should be planned by understanding the source of noise, its characteristics, and the routes of transmission. With proper planning, noise prevention in pump plants can be carried out more effectively.
Read also:
To understand the basics of noise measurement in pump machines, read the following article:
Understanding Noise and Sound Level: Basic Noise Measurement in Pump Machines
