In a plant, noise can originate from several sources within piping systems and equipment:

  • Flow induced turbulence.
  • Cavitation and flashing.
  • Pumps and compressors.
  • Pressure fluctuations.
  • Valves or other pressure-reducing devices.
  • Change of pipe diameter.

Regardless of the source, heightened noise levels are harmful to the well-being and productivity of a plant’s personnel as well as the surrounding environment. By some estimates, approximately 22 million US workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels at work on an annual basis. Repeated exposure to loud noise, which is typically defined as noise levels high enough to require workers to speak in raised voices to be heard, can lead to a range of long-term problems — both for the individual worker and for the efficiency of plant operations.

Download this white paper to learn how proper selection and installation of insulating materials can bring noise levels down at less than 50% of the thickness.