How to soundproof a generator set?

Both industrial generators and equipment used privately can be problematic in terms of the sound they emit. However, there are ways to soundproof such equipment. How can we do this without affecting the performance of gensets?

Where does the noise emitted by a genset come from? First of all, these devices have quite loud engines that produce electricity. A combustion engine unit can emit sound as high as 100dB. This is definitely too much, as the indicated standard for single-family houses, for example, is 40 to 45 dB.

It is even more difficult in the case of industrial units, which, for example, power large machinery or work at events. Their soundproofing is even an obligation of the entrepreneur. So let's look at how to soundproof these devices.

Technical ways to soundproof a genset

The basic possibility to influence the sound emitted by a generator is a silencer. This is an effective and equipment-safe component that reduces noise emissions. It works similarly to the parts we are familiar with from cars. Remember, however, that the muffler must be selected appropriately for a specific model - do not use universal parts, for example, which can significantly reduce the efficiency of the genset engine and reduce power production. Silencers reduce noise by about 30 dB.

The second solution is to use a special acoustic enclosure. This solution is advantageous because we can use them for different types of gensets, interchangeably. However, we need to adjust the size of the enclosure to the equipment that produces electricity. The disadvantage of this solution is lower efficiency - even high-end enclosures will stop no more than 20 dB of noise.

Some companies also use special mats to soundproof chillers. It is a good idea to put the device on such a mat to reduce vibrations to a minimum, and additionally put walls made of sound-absorbing material around it.

It is worthwhile to plan the placement of aggregates well!

When planning to set up the equipment at a construction site or event, it is worthwhile to properly approach the issues related to the operation of aggregates. It is best if this type of equipment is placed away from the buildings or stage. It is better to pull longer cables than to focus the attention of bystanders on the working aggregates. Moreover, check that there are no objects near the genset that will "transmit" vibrations and noise towards people. Such measures will allow cost-free noise reduction of up to 10 dB.

As you can see, there are many ways to reduce noise from generators. These are related to both technical ways and skillful planning of the device's operation. Let's remember that noise negatively affects not only the issue of the environment, outsiders, but also ourselves - prolonged work in sound elevated above the norm can permanently affect, among other things, our hearing or neurological health!