3. Noise and vibration

3.1 General

There is a large number of recent publications on noise problems, although it is difficult to reconcile theories and experimental results.

Compression machines, like all equipment handling compressible fluids, readily generate and transmit acoustic vibrations and disperse sound energy, which can be significant. For example, a noise level of 90 dBA is not unusual for a centrifugal compressor.

Statistical results obtained on a large number of machines have been plotted on the diagram in figure 26 showing noise levels as a function of motor compressor power, with an additional datum in the form of the peripheral...