The challenges
The challenge of mitigating dangerous levels of noise created by machinery operation is one quite common to many industries. One such case was documented by of the world’s largest manufacturers of oil drilling platforms. Typically these oil rigs operate 24/7, and the equipment onboard generates a large amount of noise, placing operators at a high risk of industrial deafness when exposed over a long period of time.
Platforms Noble Lloyd Noble and West Regal measured noise levels above 90 db in the machinery rooms which exceeded the owners and international compliance regulation noise requirements. Areas were identified for treatment with noise emitted particularly from the “draw works” area. Still needing access for the maintenance team, the curtain needed to be designed in a way to isolate the machinery, yet be practical enough to work around and reduce the excessive noise transfer to nearby areas.
Installation time was critical as handover to the owners was fast approaching - and failure to comply with requirements would lead to costly penalities.
Visibility, protection from dirt, cleanability and durability are all factors taken into consideration in machinery enclosure noise curtain projects. Experience with measurements can be a challenge to ensure right fit, to seal areas to contain noise effectively.
The solutions
Pyrotek was commissioned to engineer a solution to reduce noise levels.After consultation with the engineering team and owners, Pyrotek designed and developed flexible noise curtains along with adequate installation methods and coverage span to reduce the noise propagating from this area. A consideration was made to ensure maintenance teams could carry out routine checks without causing any hindrance.
The noise curtains were designed to be hung using eyelets and the sides had hook and loop fasteners to join them easily. The panels were designed to incorporate removable covers, clear windows, automatic sliding doors and emergency stops button access.
The curtains were manufactured by Pyrotek using materials to comply with international maritime organization (IMO) fire regulations including a tough and durable Teflon coated fiberglass fabric which was then sewn together using a combination of Quadzero NL and Sorberglass. The noise curtain was designed to be hung 3m (30 foot) in length and due to the surface, it is easily cleaned. Each oil platform required approximately 100 square meters (1000sqft) of these noise curtains to be hung, each took only 24 hrs to install.
The results
Pyrotek have designed high-level acoustic performance products for many Industrial markets.
After the curtains were installed, a noise reading was taken. The solution successfully lowered the level in the adjoining area, with a 12 dB improvement, even when in operation at high speed. A reduction from 94 dB to 82 dB has been achieved.
With two successful projects, Pyrotek® is now their preferred supplier for noise abatement issues and will be asked to assist in future projects.
Visibility, protection from dirt, cleanability and durability are all factors taken into consideration in machinery enclosure noise curtain projects.
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