A Practical Guide to Reducing Industrial Air Compressor Noise
A loud air compressor is more than just an annoyance; it’s a drag on productivity and safety. Fortunately, you can create a safer and more engaging work environment by tackling air compressor noise at its source. This guide provides actionable strategies, from simple maintenance to system modifications, to help you solve the problem and increase the safety of your employees and the efficiency of your operation.
Why is My Air Compressor So Loud? Common Causes of Excessive Noise
While all industrial air compressors make noise, excessive or increasing noise levels may indicate a larger issue.
Common causes of excessive noise include:
● Normal Mechanical Operation: The motor, pump and cooling fan all generate sound during normal operation.
● Vibrations: During operation, the compressor may vibrate against the concrete floor or other hard surfaces.
● Loose Components: Rattling belts, guards or other system parts may cause noisy operation.
● Air Intake: The sound of air being rapidly drawn into the system can be a source of noise.
● Worn Components: Failing bearings or other internal parts can generate excessive noise and indicate that service is needed.
What is the Normal Noise Level of an Air Compressor?
The noise level of an air compressor is measured in decibels (dB). Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) provides limits for workplace noise exposure in the OSHA 1910.95 standard, which states that when noise exposure is at or above 85 dB averaged over eight working hours, employers must institute a hearing protection program.
However, the typical operational range for industrial air compressors can vary by type. For example, rotary screw compressors typically operate between 65 and 75 dB, which is comparable to a vacuum cleaner, while reciprocating (piston) compressors can be as loud as 85 dB, which is comparable to a lawn mower, during normal operation. For this reason, controlling the noise level of your air compressor should be a priority to ensure the health and safety of your workers, as well as compliance.
3 Ways to Reduce Industrial Air Compressor Noise
In this guide, JHFOSTER, your air compression partner, offers three practical approaches that any facility manager can take to reduce air compressor noise.
Start with Proper Maintenance
A well-maintained compressor is quieter, safer, more efficient and more reliable. The following maintenance tasks can help reduce noise, while also increasing reliability and efficiency.
● Maintain correct oil levels: Be sure your oil-lubricated compressor is properly lubricated.
● Tighten all components: Regularly check and tighten any loose belts, bolts or safety guards that could be rattling.
● Clean and replace air filters: Replace filters regularly to boost efficiency and air quality.
● If you’re behind on maintenance, the JHFOSTER team can help.
Optimize Your Compressor’s Environment
The location of your compressor can have a significant impact on its perceived noise level. The following checklist provides environmental solutions for reducing compressor noise.
● Increase the distance: If possible, locate the compressor away from primary workspaces.
● Install rubber mounts: Rubber mounts or vibration pads can be used to isolate the compressor from the floor to reduce noise related to vibration.
Modify Your System with Noise-Reducing Components
Target specific noise sources with the following engineered solutions:
● Intake silencers: Sometimes called a compressor muffler, air compressor silencers may help to reduce the noise of your piston compressor.
● Flexible hose: Replacing a section of hard piping on a small piston compressor outlet with a flexible hose could help reduce vibration transfer along the pipe system.
When to Call an Expert for Your Noisy Compressor
If your compressor is still too loud after trying these DIY solutions, excessive noise is likely a symptom of a larger mechanical problem that could lead to safety issues, non-compliance and system failure. Don’t let a noisy compressor reduce the efficiency of your employees or the reliability of your compressor. As your air compression partner, JHFOSTER can help diagnose and fix the root cause of compressor noise. Contact the experts at JHFOSTER today for a comprehensive system evaluation.
