mardi 17 décembre 2013

Some Basics Related To Industrial Noise Control

By Eugenia Dickerson


Too much noise in industrial areas is not only an uncomfortable working environment but is also a major health hazard as well. Noisy environments are created by equipment such as blowers, vacuum pumps, stamping pressers, compressors and air handling equipment. There are several available options for industrial noise control. The choice of method to be used depends on the degree of pollution. The options are frequently used in combination.

One of the commonly employed measures is the use of what are known as sound curtains or blankets. The curtains are fitted on walls or ceilings in the affected areas. Alternatively, the curtains can be used to wrap equipment such as pumps, compressors and other heavy machinery. The advantage of using curtains is that they are easy to work with yet very effective. They make possible for workers to access the noisy environments.

Sound enclosure has been established to be one of the most effective mechanisms for bringing noise under control. In this approach, several panels made of steel are used in the construction process. The panels are shaped in a manner that will still make access of the affected area possible for the worker. They allow for fitting of ventilation spaces and the floor remains usable for other needs. It is possible for one to request customised panels as per specific needs of their industry.

Sound barrier walls can be fitted both indoors and outdoors. They are recommended for structures in which using a roofed sound proof system would be impractical or impossible. Materials used are mainly made of steel and include both panels and sheets. Another option that is available is possible for structures that will not allow the use of enclosures is a baffle. Baffles are usually mounted to a ceiling of the affected room and greatly enhance absorption. They are typically used alongside other equipment.

Silencers are another option that one may wish to consider. These are also known as mufflers or attenuators. They are used when the cause of the problem is excessive airflow. They are fitted inside the ductwork or mounted on the equipment itself. Related to the same is the use of composite foam which is also fitted inside the cabinets of machines and other noisy equipment. They are fairly simple to use.

There are numerous solutions that are available. Some improvisation may be required in some cases. Duct lagging is one of the simplest techniques that can be used. This method uses readily available composite materials to wrap noisy pipes and ducts. The wrapping helps prevent transmission of unwanted sounds through the walls of the pipes.

Apart from targeting the specific equipment or the entire building, an easier option is to create a quiet room. The room, also known as test enclosure is masked to ensure that it is independent of the noisy environment. It is especially important for the quality control, QC, department where parts of production have to be tested.

Noise pollution causes great discomfort in the work place. It also poses a huge health risk to the people who work in such environments. The affected persons need to have proper protective gear to minimize the risk of suffering from hearing impairment. At the same time, they need to undergo regular medical check-ups to ensure that they are not affected. Measures that have been put in place for industrial noise control should be checked regular to ensure that they are always in a good state.




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