Generator sets: Controlling unwanted noise

Posted by Jack Barry on Tue, Apr 24, 2012

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Diesel generators are great methods for stand-by or emergency backup power generation. In addition to providing backup power for commercial buildings in areas where noise may not be a factor, they are frequently used as emergency power for schools, hospitals and other critical operations. Unfortunately, this means that they are also frequently located in residential areas where the noise created by the diesel generators is unacceptable. In those cases, diesel generator noise reduction practices need to be employed to meet local ordinances or just be good neighbors.

One method of noise control is erecting some sort of noise abating or acoustical enclosure around the generator. These type enclosures provide good noise reduction, but fans need to be employed to provide cooling to the diesel generators as the normal air cooling functionality has been constricted. This method works best for free standing generators that are installed on the exterior of a building.

Another method of diesel generator noise reduction that is both less costly and less effective is installing acoustic insulation around the air ducts and covering the walls and ceilings. This method of course is only viable for generators that are already installed inside some type of enclosure.

A way to help muffle the noise regardless of the type of generator is improving the exhaust silencers or mufflers. Replacing the existing mufflers with industrial grade chamber style exhaust silencers can reduce noise output by as much as 10 decibels.

Finally, an expensive method of diesel generator noise reduction, but one that is useful if you are in the planning stage of installation is location. For every distance that the generator is doubled from the nearest home or sensitive area, the noise level is reduced by 6 decibels. Obviously any or all of these methods can be combined to maximize diesel generator noise reduction.

Tags: Diesel Generator Noise Reduction, Diesel Generator Maintenance

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