Noise Control Guidelines/Considerations: A P C, I H N C

AIR POLLUTION CONTROL, INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE DESIGN PRACTICES
AND NOISE CONTROL Section Page

EXXON NOISE CONTROL GUIDELINES/CONSIDERATIONS XVIII-C 1 of 29
ENGINEERING Date
PROPRIETARY INFORMATION - For Authorized Company Use Only December, 1999
CONTENTS
Section Page
SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................................ 2
BACKGROUND .............................................................................................................................................. 2
REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................ 2
INTERNATIONAL PRACTICES .............................................................................................................. 2
OTHER REFERENCES .......................................................................................................................... 2
DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................................. 2
CHARACTERISTICS OF NOISE .................................................................................................................... 5
DECISION TREES FOR PLANT NOISE CONTROL ...................................................................................... 8
PLANT NOISE CRITERIA............................................................................................................................. 10

DOCUMENTATION .............................................................................................................................. 10
PLANT NOISE DESIGN BASIS ............................................................................................................ 10
COMMUNITY NOISE CRITERION ....................................................................................................... 10
WORKPLACE NOISE CRITERION ...................................................................................................... 12
SPEECH COMMUNICATION CRITERION........................................................................................... 12
REFINERY AND CHEMICAL PLANT NOISE SOURCES ............................................................................ 12
WORKPLACE AND COMMUNITY NOISE PREDICTION ............................................................................ 13
ENGINEERING NOISE CONTROL............................................................................................................... 13
PLANT NOISE CALCULATION METHODS AND EXAMPLES.................................................................... 20
TABLES
Table 1 Typical Worker Exposure Locations.................................................................................. 11
Table 2 Major Noise Sources in Refineries and Chemical Plants .................................................. 12
FIGURES
Figure 1 Typical “A” Weighted Sound Pressure Levels ..................................................................... 6
Figure 2 Typical Sound Power Levels ............................................................................................... 7
Figure 3 Trouble Shooting for Existing Noise Problems .................................................................... 8
Figure 4 Purchase New or Replacement Equipment ........................................................................ 9
Figure 5 Sketch of a Typical Reactive Silencer ............................................................................... 16
Figure 6 Sketch of Typical Dissipative Silencers............................................................................. 17
Figure 7 Sketch of Typical Pipe Lagging ......................................................................................... 17
Figure 8 Sketch of a Typical Acoustic Enclosure ............................................................................ 18
Figure 9 Sketch of a Typical Barrier ................................................................................................ 19
Figure 10 Sketch of a Typical Active Noise Control Device .............................................................. 19
Figure 11 Combining Decibel Levels................................................................................................. 21
Figure 12 Distance Attenuation Customary Units............................................................................. 27
Figure 13 Distance Attenuation – Metric Units .................................................................................. 28
Revision Memo
12/99 Minor editorial changes.
EXXON RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY - FLORHAM PARK, N.J.

DESIGN PRACTICES AIR POLLUTION CONTROL, INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE
Section Page AND NOISE CONTROL
XVIII-C 2 of 29 NOISE CONTROL GUIDELINES/CONSIDERATIONS EXXON
Date ENGINEERING
December, 1999 PROPRIETARY INFORMATION - For Authorized Company Use Only
SCOPE
This introduction to noise control provides background information on how to solve noise problems in refineries and chemical
plants. Details can be found in other Design Practice sections that follow this introduction, ER&E reports, and technical /
professional society, vendor and other, third party literature sources.
BACKGROUND
Noise is defined as any undesired sound. The major objectives of plant noise control are to comply with Exxon guidelines and
government noise regulations at workplace and nearby community locations. This is to protect hearing of plant employees and
to maintain good plant-community relationships. In addition, noise control is required for avoidance of in-plant speech
interference inside control rooms, offices, and other plant areas frequented by personnel.
The need for noise control can also be stated in economic terms, such as avoidance of the need to pay worker's compensation
claims, avoidance of citations, fines, lawsuits, and unfavorable publicity. Prolonged in-plant personnel exposure to high noise
levels results in permanent hearing damage. The permanent hearing damage cannot be corrected by medical treatments.
A noise problem, in general, involves a system composed of three basic elements: a source, a path, and a receiver. In order to
generate a cost-effective solution to a complex noise problem, the dominant source of the noise must be known, the
characteristics of the significant transmission paths must be understood, and the noise criteria at the receiver locations must be
defined. Consequently, plant noise control involves control at the noise source, transmission path, and receiver.
The most economical and effective approach to noise control is to evaluate expected noise emission and incorporate
attenuation treatments during the initial design stage of a plant or in equipment selection. It is the plant owner's responsibility to
develop noise criteria for the protection of the workers from hearing loss and for the prevention of community annoyance. The
owner must present the contractor or equipment vendor with specifications covering hearing conservation and community noise
criteria and finally decide upon the adequacy of the contractor's noise analysis and vendor's equipment noise data.
REFERENCES
INTERNATIONAL PRACTICES
➧ IP 2-1-1 Plant Noise Design Criteria
OTHER REFERENCES
1. Beranek, L. L., Noise and Vibration Control, published by the Institute of Noise Control Engineering, 1988.
2. Beranek, L. L. and Ver, I. L., Noise and Vibration Control Engineering, Principles, and Applications, published by John
Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1992.
➧ 3. American National Standards Institute, Acoustical Terminology, ANSI S1.1-1994.
4. Rice, S. C., Revision To Process Plant Noise Analytical Program 3565, User's Manual EE.75E.80, 1980.
DEFINITIONS
Noise – Noise is undesired sound.
Sound – Sound is caused by vibrations in air, water, or other media that stimulate auditory nerves and produce the sensation
of hearing. The sound vibrations are periodic pressure variations and are transmitted through the media by waves.
Sound Intensity, I (W/m2) – Sound intensity is the amount of sound power radiating through a unit area. It is the average rate
of sound energy transmitted in a specified direction at a point through a unit area normal to this direction at the point
considered.
Sound Power, W (watt) – Sound power is the sound energy radiated by a source per unit of time.

ENGINEERING Date
DEFINITIONS (Cont)
Sound Pressure, p (pascals, Pa) – Sound pressure is a periodic fluctuation of pressure produced by an acoustic wave.
The relationship among the above three terms is:
p2 W
l = =
ρc A Eq. (1)
where: I = Intensity, W/m2
p = Pressure, Pa
W = Power, W
A = Area through which the sound waves pass, m2
ρ = Density of the medium through which the sound passes, kg/m3
c = Sound velocity in the medium, m/s
p2
The relationship I = is strictly correct only for a sound wave in the free field produced by a single source.
ρc
➧ Level, Lx (decibel, dB) – Level is the magnitude of an acoustic quantity expressed in decibels. The subscripts, x of L, are
used to indicate the type of quantity. The decibel is defined as 10 times the logarithm to the base 10 of the ratio of two like
quantities, both proportional to power, e.g., LW = 10 log W/W o. LW is the sound power level in decibels for a radiated power, W.
Wo is the reference power.
➧ Sound Pressure Level, Lp (dB) – Sound pressure level is the relationship of a measured sound pressure to an arbitrary
reference.
2
p 
Lp = 10 log  1  Eq. (2)
 p0 
The reference quantity, po, accepted internationally is 20 micropascals (20 µ Pa).

➧ Sound Power Level, LW (dB) – Sound power level is the relationship of the sound power to an
arbitrary reference. Often, LW is used to express the acoustical power produced by equipment.
W 
L w = 10 log  1  Eq. (3)
 Wo 
The reference quantity, W o, is 10-12 watts.

The following, derived from Eqs. 1, 2, and 3, are the relationships in the free field
between LP and LW.
LW = Lp + 10 log AM Eq. (4)
LW = Lp + 10 log AF – 10
where: AM = The area through which the sound waves pass, m2

AF = The area through which the sound waves pass, ft2
Lp = The average sound pressure level across area A, dB
LW = The sound power level of the sound passing through area A, dB
Sound Intensity Level, LI (dB) – Sound intensity level is the relationship of the sound intensity to an arbitrary reference.
 l 
L l = 10 log   Eq. (5)
 lo 
The reference quantity, Io, is 10-12 watt/m2.

Date ENGINEERING
DEFINITIONS (Cont)
➧ Overall Noise Level, Lpo, LWo (dB)
A single number which expresses a total sound level, including the contributions of all frequencies. Thus, it is the logarithmic
summation of the sound levels of each band in a sound spectrum.
➧ "A"-Weighted Sound Pressure Level, LpA or dBA (dBA) – An overall sound pressure level (in dB), in which the sound
pressures of low and very high frequencies are weighted less heavily than the mid-frequencies. The weighting curve is
designated in ANSI 12.4 and is termed “A" weighting. It was derived from studies of the human ear's response to different
frequencies. These studies found that for noise levels below 55 dB, “A" weighting correlated with human perception of
loudness. Hence dBA noise levels are well suited for, and indeed are used for, community noise regulations. In addition, it has
been found that “A" weighted sound levels can be related to hearing damage and are thus used in hearing conservation
regulations. Sound level meters measure this quantity directly using the “A" scale.
➧ Particle Velocity (m/s) – In a sound field, the velocity caused by a sound wave, of a given infinitesimal part of the medium.
Frequency (hertz, Hz) – This is the time rate of repetition of periodic sound. One hertz equals one cycle per second.
Band – A band is a continuous group of acoustical frequencies. The width of the band is identified by the difference between
the lowest and highest frequency in the group. It is designated by the geometric mean frequency.
➧ Octave Band – An octave is a band in which the upper frequency is twice the lower frequency. The most often used eight
octave bands are with center frequencies at 63; 125; 250; 500; 1,000; 2,000; 4,000; and 8,000 Hz.
OCTAVE BAND (Hz) FREQUENCY RANGE (Hz)

63 44.5 89
125 89 177
250 177 354
500 354 707
1,000 707 1,414
2,000 1,414 2,828
4,000 2,828 5,656
8,000 5,656 11,312
Third Octave Band – A third octave band is a band in which the upper frequency is 1.26 times (21/3) the lower frequency.
➧ Sound Spectrum – A sound spectrum is the distribution of sound pressure, sound power, or sound intensity over the entire
audio frequency range. Usually, the levels are given for each of eight octave bands (63 to 8000 hertz) or the corresponding
twenty four 1/3 octave bands. In some situations, the octave bands or three 1/3 octave bands above and below these eight
octave bands are also reported. These are the 31 and 16,000 hertz octave bands.
Community Noise Levels
L10 (dB) The statistical sound pressure level (“A" weighted or octave band) that is exceeded 10 percent of the time.
Leq (dBA) The equivalent sound pressure level (“A" weighted) over a time period. The equivalence meaning equal
energy, i.e.:
 t2
L pA ( t ) 
1
➧ L eq (dBA ) = 10 log 
 t 2 − t1 ∫ t1
10 10 dt 

Eq. (6)
 
Leq(8) (dBA) The equivalent sound pressure level for 8 continuous hours.
Leq (24) (dBA) The equivalent sound pressure level for 24 continuous hours.
Ld (dBA) The equivalent sound pressure level for the 15 day-time hours of 0700 to 2200.

ENGINEERING Date
DEFINITIONS (Cont)
Ln (dBA) The equivalent sound pressure level for the 9 night-time hours of 2200 to 0700.
Ldn (dBA) Day-night average sound level. The 24-hour “A" weighted equivalent sound pressure level with a 10 dB
penalty applied to the 9 night-time hours.
   Ld   Ln +10   
    
 1  10  
L dn = 10 log  15 x 10
 + 9 x 10  10    dB Eq. (7)
 24  
  
Lden (dBA) The community noise equivalent level. It is 24-hour average A-weighted sound level for a given day, after
addition of five decibels to sound levels from 1900 hours to 2200 hours, and after addition of ten decibels to
sound levels from 2200 hours to midnight and from midnight to 0700 hours.
Free Field – This is a sound field in a homogeneous, isotropic medium, free of all boundaries. It is characterized by the particle
velocity being primarily in the direction of propagation of the sound wave and the sound intensity being proportional to p2. In a
free field, sound pressure levels decrease at a rate of 6 dB for each doubling of the distance from the source.
Near Field – This is the area close to a sound source. It is characterized by appreciable variations of sound pressure with
position. Particle velocity is not necessarily in the direction of propagation of the sound wave. Moreover, sound intensity is not
simply proportional to p2. Reduction in sound pressure is usually other than (i.e., more or less than) 6 dB for each doubling of
distance.
Far Field – This is a sound field sufficiently remote to mask the size effects of large, irregularly shaped sound sources.
Therefore, the field resembles a free field, particularly regarding the rate of sound pressure reduction with distance (6 dB for
each doubling of distance).
➧ Directivity Factor (Q) – This is the ratio of the intensity on a designated axis of the sound radiation at a distance from the
source center to the intensity that would be produced at the same position by a point source radiating the same total acoustical
power uniformly in all directions.
➧ Directivity Index, DI (dB) – The DI is 10 times the logarithm to the base 10 of the directivity factor:
DI = 10 log Q
Insertion Loss, LI (dB) – Insertion loss is the difference between two sound pressure levels measured at the same point in
space before and after noise abatement measures. Insertion loss can also be measured in terms of sound power levels or
intensity levels.
Transmission Loss, LT (dB) – Transmission loss of a noise control device is the difference between sound power incident on
the device and the sound power transmitted by the device.
Noise Reduction, LNR (dB) – The noise reduction of a control device is the difference in sound pressure levels measured at
the device input and output.
CHARACTERISTICS OF NOISE
Noise is rarely a pure tone. It covers the entire audible range of about 20 to 20,000 hertz, but most of the noise energy is
concentrated in the range of about 50 to 10,000 hertz. We react to noise in different ways, depending on both the overall levels
and the frequency composition. The noise spectrum is a measure of both, since it shows how the sound energy is distributed
over the audible range of frequencies.
LpA (or dBA) is a good measure of how loud a noise appears to be. A difference of one decibel is virtually indistinguishable by
the human ear. A three-decibel difference is detectable, but a ten-decibel difference stands out. In normal conversation, voice
sound pressure level is about 50 to 60 dBA and 10 to 20 dB above the background level.
The intensity of sound waves traveling through the atmosphere decreases with distance. Two major factors are considered in
most design calculations: dispersion and molecular air absorption. Other attenuation factors include structure shielding, wind
effects, and ground absorption. Sound waves travel outward from a source, usually spherically (if the source is high above the
ground) or hemi-spherically (if the source is near the ground). Accordingly, the sound energy is distributed over greater areas
as the distance from the source increases; therefore, the sound level decreases. Reduction of the sound level for spherical or
hemi-spherical dispersion is proportional to the logarithm of the square of the distance from the sound source. Noise reduction
(dB) due to spherical or hemi-spherical dispersion is 6 dB for each doubling of the distance from the source. Sound waves in
the atmosphere excite the air molecules, and this results in a conversion of sound energy into heat (molecular air absorption).
Noise reduction (dB) due to molecular air absorption is linear with the distance and frequency.

Date ENGINEERING
CHARACTERISTICS OF NOISE (Cont)

Often sound waves in confined areas (reverberation) are reflected from walls or other surfaces before reaching the observer. If
sound waves are reflected many times before they die out, the area is called reverberant, and the sound level is higher than in
the absence of reflection. Where reverberation should be considered in plant design, it will be covered in other sections related
to the particular type of equipment. Examples where reverberation affects plant noise levels are under furnaces or inside
compressor houses.
Major changes in sound energy are necessary to significantly affect loudness. This is implied by the logarithmic relationship
between sound pressure or power and the respective levels. A few examples will illustrate this: Doubling the sound power,
regardless of the power level, results in an increase of three decibels in sound level. Thus, two identical sound sources
produce sound three dB greater than either by itself. Regarding noise treatment, a muffler that achieves a 20 dB reduction in
noise level eliminates 99 percent of the sound energy. Figure 1 shows corresponding sound pressure and sound pressure
levels for typical sounds. Figure 2 shows corresponding sound power and sound power levels for typical noise sources.
FIGURE 1
TYPICAL “A” WEIGHTED SOUND PRESSURE LEVELS
Sound Pressure
Sound Pressure Levels Adjusted For
"A" Weighted dB "A" Weighted
LpA or dBA Pascals Typical Sound
140 20 x 10 1 50 HP Siren 100 ft (30 m)
130 Jet at Take-Off 200 ft (60 m)
120 20 Jet Overhead 500 ft (150 m)
110 Under Untreated Furnace
100 20 x 10–1 Heavy City Traffic
90
80 20 x 10–2 Inside Sports Car at 50 mph
70 Busy Restaurant
60 20 x 10–3 Conversational Speech
50 Average Residential Area
40 20 x 10–4 Quiet Residential Area
30 Soft Whisper 5 ft (1.5 m)
20 20 x 10–5 Studio For Sound Pictures
10
0 20 x 10–6 Threshold of Hearing
DP18Cf1

ENGINEERING Date
CHARACTERISTICS OF NOISE (Cont)
FIGURE 2
TYPICAL SOUND POWER LEVELS
Sound Pressure Level Sound Power

dB – re 10–12 watts (watts) Sound Source
160 10 4 Turbo Jet Engine
150
10 3 10,000 HP Centerfugal Compressor
140 10,000 HP Gas Turbine

10 2
130 Refinery Flare
10
120
1 10-Fan Air Fin Cooler
110
10 –1 200-400 HP Induction Motor

100
90 10 –2 SO-SA Burner Radiating Under Furnace
80 10 –3
70 10 –4
60
10 –5 Voice – Normal Conversation
50
10 –6
40
10 –7
30
10 –8
10 –9 Voice – Very Soft Whisper
DP18Cf02

Date ENGINEERING
DECISION TREES FOR PLANT NOISE CONTROL

This section consists of decision trees that will give general guidance to proceed with a noise control effort. The decision tree is
presented in Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is for trouble shooting for the existing facilities. Figure 4 is for purchasing new or
replacement equipment. For those situations that do not fit into the general decision trees, such as for major capital projects,
contact ER&E noise control specialists for assistance.
➧ FIGURE 3
TROUBLE SHOOTING FOR EXISTING NOISE PROBLEMS
Determine Type Of Noise Problem

- Community Noise
Start - Workplace Noise
- Speech / Communication
Interference
DP XVIII-C
Determine The
Noise Limit
Identify and Characterize

Noise Sources
DP XVIII-C1
DP XVIII-C2
DP XVIII-C3 (Future)
Specify Noise
Control Devices
DP XVIII-C4 (Future)
Design Noise
Control Devices
Notes:
(1) Noise control devices can be applied to the equipment (i.e., low-noise equipment), or transmission paths (i.e., silencer or
enclosure), or receiving (i.e., quiet room for worker).
(2) Administrative noise control (e.g., restricted access) should also be considered on a case-by-case basis.
DP18CfC3

ENGINEERING Date
DECISION TREES FOR PLANT NOISE CONTROL (Cont)
➧ FIGURE 4
PURCHASE NEW OR REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT
Establish
Start Noise Limit
(Workplace
or Community)
Will Low-
Noise Equipment No Consult With
or Control ER&E Noise
Devices Meet Specialist
Obtain Vendor the Limit
Noise Data
Yes
Ask Vendor for

Obtain Vendor
Backup Information
Backup
and Data for
Information/Data
Substantiation
Yes
Review Noise
Control Devices
(DP XVIII-C4 [Future])
Is the Vendor No
Noise Data Lower Yes
Than the Limit
Yes
Purchase the
Equipment
DP18Cf4

Date ENGINEERING
PLANT NOISE CRITERIA

Noise criteria are used to specify permissible noise levels at specified locations. Generally, three types of criteria are needed
for refineries and chemical plants. These are:
• Community noise criterion
• Workplace noise criterion
• Speech communication criterion
➧ The community noise criteria are to meet local community noise regulations or ordinances, if any; and/or to minimize
community noise complaints. The workplace noise criteria are to minimize the need for personal hearing protection and to
ensure no employees are exposed to a time weighted average (TWA) noise exposure of greater than 85 dBA for an 8 hour shift
or 82 dBA for a 12 hour shift. The speech communication criteria are to ensure effective communications inside control houses
and offices.
➧ The responsibility for meeting the noise requirements specified herein shall be assumed by the contractor responsible for
engineering, procurement, and construction of the plant.
DOCUMENTATION
➧ Data and calculations shall be furnished to the Owner's Engineer to substantiate that the plant design complies with the
workplace and community noise criteria.
PLANT NOISE DESIGN BASIS

The plant noise shall meet both community and workplace noise criteria. In order to meet the community noise criterion, it is
possible that a greater noise reduction is required than just meeting the workplace noise criterion. The noise criteria shall be
met for normal and abnormal (e.g., startup and shutdown) operating conditions.
COMMUNITY NOISE CRITERION

➧E Applicable state or local community noise regulations or ordinances shall be used as the community noise criterion. In the
absence of applicable government regulations, the plant community noise criterion at the nearest community location (i.e.,
residential area, school, hospital, etc.) from continuous noise sources is listed below:
EXISTING NIGHTTIME NOISE LEVEL

AT THE NEAREST COMMUNITY LOCATION, dBA PLANT COMMUNITY NOISE CRITERION, dBA
Less Than 50 45
Between 50 and 65 6 dBA Below The Existing Level
Higher Than 65 55
Continuous noise sources are defined as those in operation more than two hours per day. Nighttime is defined as between
2200 and 0700 hours. The existing nighttime community noise level should be reported as L90 (the noise level is exceeded 90
percent of the time. L90 basically eliminates contributions from intermittent noise sources such as traffic).
Noise contributions from intermittent noise sources shall be evaluated separately from continuous noise sources. Noise criteria
for intermittent operations, such as venting, shall be determined by the Owner's Engineer. A guideline to limit intermittent noise
at the nearest community location is listed below:
• Daytime (0700 – 2200) 5 dBA added to the community noise criteria for continuous noise sources.
• Nighttime (2200 – 0700) Same as the community noise criteria for continuous noise sources.
➧ Where there are no nearby communities and no applicable local community noise regulations, the plant design limit shall be
based on workplace noise criterion.
There shall be no pure tone noise impact from plant operations. Pure tone noise is defined as a narrow band component which
is noticeable as a noise of distinguishable pitch, and which represents a dominant feature of the plant noise.

ENGINEERING Date
PLANT NOISE CRITERIA (Cont)
➧ TABLE 1
TYPICAL WORKER EXPOSURE LOCATIONS
EQUIPMENT WORKER EXPOSURE LOCATIONS

Air Cooled Heat Exchanger(1)
Installed Over Pipe Racks or Other Directly under cooler at ear level, 5 ft (1.65 m) at grade or nearest walkway (excluding
Elevated Locations service platform for fin fan motor)
Ground level Installation 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from intake opening.
Boiler 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from burner casing and forced draft ducting.

3 ft (1 m) from boiler wall.
Compressor and Gear Unit (Centrifugal, 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from compressor case, gearbox, and driver.
Reciprocating, Rotary, and Axial) 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from compressor flanges.
Cooling Tower Any location on the fan deck.
3 ft (1 m) horizontally from edge of basin.
Gas Turbine 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from edge of base plate.

3 ft (1 m) horizontally from air intake and exhaust duct.
3 ft (1 m) horizontally from intake and exhaust opening.
Diesel Engine, Gas Engine 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from casing.
Fan 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from casing and ducting.
Floor Fired Heaters The location where the specified level applies shall be at the heater toe wall or 3 ft
(1 m) from perimeter wall.
Wall Fired Heaters The location where the specified level applies shall be at the heater toe wall or 6 ft
(1.8 m) from perimeter wall.
Mechanical Agitator 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from agitator.
Motor 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from motor.
Pump 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from pump.
Steam Turbine 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from turbine.
Control Valves and Restriction Orifices 3 ft (1 m) from valves or orifices.
Operational Vents and Pressure 3 ft (1 m) away at grade or nearest elevated platform.

Reduction Valves
Solids Handling Equipment: Crushers and 3 ft (1 m) away at grade or nearest elevated platform.
Conveyors
Piping 3 ft (1 m) away from piping at grade or nearest elevated platform.
Flare At the base of the flare stack and at the nearest plant fenceline location.
Notes:
(1) Elevation of air-cooled heat exchanger units will be specified.

Date ENGINEERING
PLANT NOISE CRITERIA (Cont)
WORKPLACE NOISE CRITERION

➧E The workplace noise criteria specify the noise limit for equipment at worker exposure locations, typically three feet from the
equipment as described in Table 1. The equipment noise limit for each equipment item shall be 85 dBA (the combined
equipment noise levels would be 85 – 90 dBA at worker exposure locations). Under special conditions, 90 dBA can be used for
isolated, offsite, unattended equipment items (such as those in tank farms). For equipment with more than one noise emitting
source, such as a driver-gearbox-compressor combination, the noise limit applies for each component.
Maximum noise levels at any location an employee can reasonably be expected to occupy while carrying out normal process or
mechanical work functions shall not exceed 115 dBA at any time.
SPEECH COMMUNICATION CRITERION

In the following special areas the noise levels shall not exceed the specified limits for speech communication.
SPECIAL AREAS NOISE LIMIT, dBA

Control Rooms, Telephone Communication Stations, 55
and Other Continuously Occupied Areas
Routinely, but not Continuously Occupied Areas (e.g., 75
Smoking Area)
REFINERY AND CHEMICAL PLANT NOISE SOURCES

Table 2 lists major noise sources in refineries and chemical plants. Equipment noise emission data (Lp or Lw), in general, are
available from vendors. In some cases, the vendors are willing to provide guarantee on their noise data. If vendors' data are
not available, equipment noise emission data can be estimated from the prediction techniques described in the following sub-
sections.
➧ TABLE 2
MAJOR NOISE SOURCES IN REFINERIES AND CHEMICAL PLANTS
FLOW INDUCED NOISE SOURCE (XVIII-C1)

Control valve, restriction orifice and the associated piping
Operational vent and pressure reduction valve
COMBUSTION NOISE SOURCE (XVIII-C2)
Floor fired heater
Wall fired heater
Flare
MACHINERY NOISE SOURCE (XVIII-C3 [Future])
Motor
Gear
Pump
Air cooled heat exchanger
Compressor – centrifugal, rotary, axial
Blower or fan
Cooling tower
Diesel engine, gas engine
Mechanical agitator
Piping associated with compressor, turbine, or blower
Gas turbine, steam turbine

ENGINEERING Date
REFINERY AND CHEMICAL PLANT NOISE SOURCES (Cont)

Flow Induced Noise Sources – There are four basic situations encountered in process plants, which will result in the
generation of fluid flow noise. These are: 1) a flow restriction, i.e., a valve or orifice, 2) a jet discharge, i.e., a high velocity vent
exit, 3) a flow discontinuity, e.g., a tee, elbow, or reducer, and 4) a flow along a solid boundary, i.e., flow in a pipe. The noise
generated in each situation is proportional to the fluid velocity, mass flow rate, and pressure drop. Of the above, flow through a
restriction is the most prevalent and is responsible for most of the fluid flow noise in process plants. Jet discharge and flow
discontinuities cause less noise problems while flow at a boundary rarely if ever generates significant noise. Typical noise
control measures for control valves include quiet design valves and acoustic lagging on the valve associated piping.
Combustion Noise Sources – The primary noise source associated with natural draft fired heaters (furnaces) is the
burners. There are four basic types of burners used in natural draft furnaces: pre-mix gas burners, raw gas burners,
combination gas-oil burners, and oil burners. Required noise treatments are dependent on the type of burners used in the
furnace. Typically, it involves using primary air mufflers, multi-orifice spuds, burner shrouds, and air intake plenums. For
forced draft fired heaters (furnaces), the blower used to provide the air for the furnace may also pose a noise problem.
Noise treatments on forced draft furnaces include improved design burners and fan noise reduction. Elevated flares are major
process plant noise sources and often have a significant impact on the community. Flare noise can consist of three
components: low frequency rumble (booming), combustion noise, and steam injection noise. The low frequency rumbling
noise at frequencies less than 10 Hz has been known to shake houses and rattle windows in adjacent communities. Several
origins of this problem have been postulated including excessive steam injection, seal drum sloshing, and stack / seal drum
resonances. Combustion noise results from the intense burning of the flared gas. This noise is concentrated in the lower
frequencies extending to 1000 Hz. Steam noise is like a jet noise and is concentrated in the 1000 to 8000 Hz range. Typical
noise treatments on flares include properly operating flares and low-noise flare tips.
Machinery Noise Sources – Most rotating machinery noise can be attributed to two basic sources: fluid dynamic (air, gas,
steam, liquid) and mechanical. The origin of fluid dynamic noise is associated with turbulence within the operating fluid. For
example, turbulence is manifested by vortex shedding in gas turbocompressors and gas turbines. Mechanical noises are
usually identified by their discrete frequencies. The characteristic frequencies are determined by the machine's running speed
and internal geometry and configurations. For example, in axial compressors, the characteristic vane passing frequency is a
function of the number of rotating blades and stator blades in a compression stage. Typical noise treatments include low noise
equipment and retrofit devices such as enclosures, acoustic lagging, and mufflers.
WORKPLACE AND COMMUNITY NOISE PREDICTION

Noise levels at workplace and community locations can be estimated from the sound power levels of plant noise sources. If the
distance between the sound source and the noise location is more than twice the major dimension of the source, Eqs. (10) and
(11) can be used for the plant noise estimate. In this case, the noise receiver is in the acoustic far field. In addition, Eqs. (10)
and (11) can be used to estimate the community noise impact from an equipment or an expansion project and in some cases,
to estimate noise levels inside the plant. Currently, there is an in-house Computer Program 3565 for the community noise
prediction (EE.75E.80). Examples of these calculations are shown in the section on Plant Noise Calculation Methods and
Examples. If the receiver is located close to the source, i.e., less than two times of the major dimension of the source, then the
noise prediction will become difficult. However, this estimate normally is not required since the equipment purchased is
supposed to meet the workplace noise criterion, 85 dBA. If there is a need for a near field noise estimate, consult an ER&E
Noise Specialist.
ENGINEERING NOISE CONTROL

➧ Where feasible, control of excess noise shall be achieved by using low-noise equipment or process changes. Low-noise
equipment can be found for air cooled heat exchangers, motors, gear-boxes, control valves, flare tips, blowers, etc. For
compressors and gas turbines, the vendors typically can provide custom-built enclosures and silencers to reduce their noise
emissions. Process design changes include using: 1) multi-hole orifice (MHO) plates instead of a single-hole orifice, and 2)
ground flares instead of elevated flares. Another option is to change the worker environment such as providing a quiet room for
workers in a noisy environment. Finally, although administrative noise control (such as changing worker job functions and
noise exposure profiles) can be effective, this option should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the plant industrial
hygiene personnel.
S The required noise control devices used shall not interfere with safety, operational, and maintenance requirements. In addition,
the control devices shall not constitute a personnel safety hazard.

Date ENGINEERING
ENGINEERING NOISE CONTROL (Cont)

Six major categories of noise control devices are: Silencers (mufflers), lagging, enclosures, barriers, interior walls, and active
noise control (XVIII-C4). A noise abatement project typically may require more than one specific control device. Consequently,
it would be essential to examine all of the available noise control techniques. It is possible that one noise control device may
introduce new problems which are not acceptable. For example, a barrier may impede the movement of personnel and
equipment. Alternatively, the use of an enclosure may necessitate the installation of forced ventilation. Therefore, the
familiarity and ability to evaluate numerous treatments are essential in the selection and design of effective noise control
devices.
The procedure for calculating the noise level in dBA when using control devices is as follows:
1. Obtain the equipment noise level on an octave band basis (in dB) when operating with no noise control devices.
2. Subtract (arithmetically) the estimated insertion loss from the level obtained in Step 1 to determine the equipment noise on
an octave band basis when operating with control devices. In the absence of insertion loss data, noise reduction data or
transmission loss data can usually be used for estimating noise attenuation.
3. Convert the octave band noise levels from Step 2 to a dBA value to determine the estimated noise level when operating
with control devices.
A brief discussion of these six types of noise control devices is listed below:
1. Silencers (Mufflers)
A silencer is any section of pipe or duct that has been treated to reduce the transmission of sound down the pipe. They
can be categorized according to their methods of attenuation: reactive and dissipative. To some extent, some silencers
incorporate both attenuation mechanisms.
Reactive attenuation is accomplished by energy loss due to multiple wave reflections and cancellations. Figure 5 shows a
typical reactive silencer. The noise reduction results from the acoustic mismatches that are generated by the use of
expansion chambers, side branch resonators, and conical connectors. The acoustic performance of the silencer is
primarily determined by the size, shape, and interconnections of these chambers. The maximum attenuations occur at
frequencies for which the chambers are specifically tuned. In reactive / dissipative silencers, the energy loss is enhanced
by the use of sound-absorbing materials within the compartments.
➧ Dissipative attenuation is accomplished by energy loss to sound absorbing material. Figure 6 shows several typical
dissipative silencers. Usually, the noise reduction characteristics of a dissipative silencer are more wide band than a
reactive silencer. The frequency characteristics are primarily determined by the silencer width, geometry, and acoustic
properties of the dissipative material. The attenuation from a dissipative silencer is proportional to its length.
➧ Silencers are mostly applied at intake and discharge piping from compressors and turbines, venting, and air intake of
natural draft furnaces. Silencers have also been installed on FCCU regenerator vents downstream of noisy slide valves on
FCCU flue lines.
2. Lagging
Lagging is a general term for describing acoustic wrapping. The wrapping consists of at least one layer of an acoustically
absorbent material. In more sophisticated cases there may be several acoustic material layers covered and separated by
impermeable layers, such as lead. Lagging can be applied on piping and equipment casing (such as gear box casing).
Figure 7 illustrates lagging with a single layer of absorbent material and one impermeable layer.
The overall noise reduction provided by lagging will depend on the frequency distribution of the noise. Lagging is not
useful below 500 Hz and its effectiveness increases with increasing frequency. Therefore, if the noise source is primarily
high frequency in content, lagging should be an effective means of noise control. Typical noise reduction offered by pipe
lagging is in the range of 15 - 30 dBA. Greater noise reduction may be possible by using additional layers.
Lagging is mostly applied on piping and equipment casing.
3. Enclosures
An acoustical enclosure is a structure built around the noise source to reduce the noise reaching the receiver. Figure 8
shows a typical enclosure design. The enclosure must be mechanically isolated from the noise source. Enclosures can be
total, housing the entire equipment train, or partial, housing only the predominant source of the train. In general, an
enclosure is built from acoustical panels. The panels typically consist of an outer panel face (solid plate), an inner panel
face (perforated plate), and 2 – 4 in. (50 – 100 mm) of acoustical absorbent material in between the panels. The panels
are removable for machinery service and maintenance. In some cases, forced ventilation is required for personnel
protection and equipment safety reasons.

ENGINEERING Date

The enclosure must completely enclose the equipment. Its effectiveness is dependent upon how well the noise is
contained. Leakage paths detract significantly from the enclosure's noise reduction. The actual noise reduction of the
enclosure is not as great as the transmission loss of its individual panels as a result of reverberation buildup within the
enclosure and noise leakage through unsealed and unmuffled openings. An acoustical enclosure will give a noise
reduction of 10 – 20 dBA depending on the equipment noise spectrum and enclosure design and installation.
Enclosures are mostly applied on compressors, gas turbines, and blowers.
4. Barriers
In some circumstances, positioning a barrier between the noise source and receiver can provide the required degree of
noise attenuation. Figure 9 shows a typical barrier. The objective of a barrier is to reduce the noise impact on a specified
set of receivers, although it does not change the amount of noise radiated into the surrounding. There are some
constraints on the use of barriers. For instance, barriers used to minimize community noise impact must be accepted by
the community because of their large structures. Within the plant or office, barriers may interfere or restrict the movement
of personnel, machinery, and supplies.
Barriers achieve noise reduction by deflecting the acoustical energy away from the receivers. Their effectiveness is
affected by several factors: dimensions, shape, covering material, and the distance between the source, barrier, and
receiver. In general, a barrier will result in a 5 – 10 dBA noise reduction.
Barriers are most used inside the plant or offices to minimize noise impact at some specified worker locations.
5. Interior Walls
An interior wall installed for noise reduction is built from floor to ceiling and from wall to wall. Its purpose is to contain the
noise in one room from reaching another area. In contrast to the barriers, it is assumed that the primary noise path to the
receiver is through the wall rather than around it.
The effectiveness of a wall is affected by the material, configuration, and structure. Walls can be either single or double
wall type. A double wall consists of two separate walls with a minimum of mechanical coupling. In general, the noise
reduction from a wall can be 15 – 30 dBA.
Walls are mostly applied inside a building.
6. Active Noise Control
Active noise control technology has been under development since the early 1980s. The basic concept of active noise
control is to create an “anti-noise" acoustic field into a space, which cancels the noise acoustic field and results in a quiet
space. For example, as shown in Figure 10, a fan generates an undesired noise waves traveling down the duct. The
input microphone picks up the pressure wave, and the controller generates a signal to the loudspeaker, which will create
an opposing pressure wave precisely when the noise wave reaches the loudspeaker. An error microphone downstream
from the loudspeaker monitors the residual acoustic pressure after cancellation and allows the controller to adjust itself for
optimal results.

Date ENGINEERING
FIGURE 5
SKETCH OF A TYPICAL REACTIVE SILENCER
Flow
DP18Cf5 Direction

ENGINEERING Date
FIGURE 6
SKETCH OF TYPICAL DISSIPATIVE SILENCERS
Flow
DP18Cf06
FIGURE 7
SKETCH OF TYPICAL PIPE LAGGING
Outer Impermeable Covering

(Sheet Aluminum or Steel)
Acoustic Absorption Material

(Fiberglass or Mineral Wool)
DP18Cf07 Pipe

Date ENGINEERING
FIGURE 8
SKETCH OF A TYPICAL ACOUSTIC ENCLOSURE
Enclosure Interior With

Absorptive Lining
Pipe Isolated
From Enclosure
Machinery on
Isolation Mounts
Enclosure Not
Mounted on
Machine Baseplate DP18Cf8

ENGINEERING Date
➧ FIGURE 9
SKETCH OF A TYPICAL BARRIER
Barrier
A
B
Source Receiver
S
R
DP18Cf9
FIGURE 10
SKETCH OF A TYPICAL ACTIVE NOISE CONTROL DEVICE
Fan
Input
Microphone Error
Microphone
Loudspeaker
Controller DP18Cf10
Active noise control is most effective at low frequencies. It has been applied successfully at intake and discharge ducts of
industrial fans and commercial air handlers. The advantages of active noise control include negligible flow restriction, light
weight, and ability to be placed into existing duct arrangement. However, the whole system must be fine tuned all the time in
order to be successful. These include the placement of microphones, the selection and application of the speaker, and the
operation of the controller. At the present, this technology has not been applied at any of the Exxon sites. Contact ER&E if
affiliates are interested in applying this technology.

Date ENGINEERING
PLANT NOISE CALCULATION METHODS AND EXAMPLES

The acoustical calculation methods presented here cover the most commonly encountered problems. These are:
1. Noise Level Addition
2. Noise Level Subtraction
3. Noise Level Averaging
4. Converting Octave Band to Overall Levels
5. Converting Octave Band to “A" Weighted Levels
6. Sound Power Level Calculations
7. Sound Pressure Level Calculations
Calculation of noise in confined spaces (i.e., reverberation) is a special topic that involves room acoustics. If there is a need,
contact ER&E for assistance.
Noise Level Addition
Sound levels are logarithmic quantities; therefore, the summation of two or more levels is by logarithmic addition.
 Ln 
 
N  10 
Sound Level Summation = 10 log ∑ 10  Eq. (8)
n=1
where: Ln = The levels to be added

N = The number of levels to be added
This can also be conveniently done by the use of Figure 11. The difference of two levels (dB) is entered on the abscissa and
the amount to be added to the higher level is read on the ordinate. If more than two levels are to be added, they must be
added two at a time, with each succeeding level added to the summation of the previous ones. Only like noise levels can be
combined by this method, i.e., dBA values cannot be combined with octave band levels. Noise level addition is used to:
• Convert octave band levels to overall levels.
• Obtain the total sound pressure level produced by more than one source.
• Obtain the combined sound power level of more than one source.
Example 1: Determine the total noise level produced by four sources. The four sources individually produce the following
noise levels at the same point, A.
Source Noise Level at Point A (dBA) Total Noise Level (dBA)
1 51
52
2 45
53.4
3 47
47.8
DP18Ce1
4 40

ENGINEERING Date
PLANT NOISE CALCULATION METHODS AND EXAMPLES (Cont)
➧ FIGURE 11
COMBINING DECIBEL LEVELS
Combining Decibel Levels
10.0
9.0
8.0
7.0
6.0
5.0
4.0 Subtraction
Subtraction: - - - Subtract From Higher Value (dB)
Addition: - - - - - - - - - - Add To Higher Value (dB)
3.0
2.0
1.0
.9
.8
.7 Addition
.6
.5
.4
.3
.2
0.1
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Difference Between Levels (dB) DP18Cf11

Date ENGINEERING

Noise Level Subtraction
Similar to noise level addition, levels are subtracted logarithmically. This is conveniently done by use of Figure 11. The
difference of two levels (dB) is entered on the abscissa and the amount to be subtracted from the larger is read on the ordinate.
As with noise level additions, only differences of like noise levels can be obtained by this method. Noise level subtraction is
used to:
• Obtain the resulting sound pressure level if one of several sources is eliminated.
• Obtain the resulting sound pressure level if one of several sources is treated to reduce its contribution. (This involves both
subtraction and addition.)
Example 2: Determine the resulting noise level if Source 1 of Example 1 receives noise treatment that reduces its contribution
at Point A from 51 to 45 dBA.
Solution:
1. Subtract Source 1 from the total level, then
2. Add 45 dBA to the result.
a. 53.4 dBA – 51 dBA
∆ = 2.4, from Figure 11, subtract 3.7 from 53.4 = 49.7 dBA
b. 49.7 dBA + 45 dBA
∆ = 4.7, from Figure 11, add 1.3 to 49.7 = 51.0 dBA
The net effect is a 2.4 dBA reduction in the noise level at Point A.
Noise Level Averaging
Similar to noise addition, levels are averaged logarithmically. However, if the levels to be averaged are not more than about 5
dB apart, the arithmetic average is sufficiently accurate for most purposes. In all cases, the true or logarithmic average is
higher than the arithmetic average. The average of several noise levels is calculated by the following equation:
  Ln  
 
 N  N  10  
➧ Average Level =  ∑ LN  − 10 log N = 10 log  ∑ 10    − 10 log N Eq. (9)
log 1   n =1 
 
N
where: ∑ = Logarithmic summation from 1 to N
log 1
Ln = The levels to be averaged
N = The number of levels to be averaged
Noise level averaging is used to:
• Determine Leq from several readings of level over equal intervals of time.
• Determine power levels of equipment if several sound pressure levels were measured at equal distances from the
equipment.
Example 3: Determine the average noise level Leq in a community between 1800 and 1900 hours. Readings were taken
every 2.5 minutes over the 1-hour period. The 24 “A" weighted sound pressure levels were:
50, 52, 51, 49, 52, 58, 63, 64, 62, 57, 55, 48, 50, 53, 53, 55, 56, 50, 44, 49, 51, 51, 51, 52
Solution:
Using Eq. (9):
  Ln  
 
 24  10  
Average Level L eq( ) = 10 log  ∑ 10    − 10 log 24 = 70.1 − 13.8 = 56.3 dBA
n =1 
 
Note: The arithmetic average is 53 dBA or about 3 dBA less than the Log average.

ENGINEERING Date

Converting Octave Band Levels to Overall Levels
Converting octave band levels to overall levels is done by the logarithmic addition of all the octave band levels.
Example 4: Determine the overall sound pressure level from the octave band sound pressure levels.
Octave Band (Hz) 63 125 250 500 1,000 2,000 4,000 8,000
Lp (dB) 60 58 53 45 46 45 40 40
Adding 62 48.5 43
47
50.8
55.0
62.8
Lpo = 62.8 ~ 63 dB
Note: The addition of octave band noise levels can also be done using Equation C-8. DP18Ce4
Converting Octave Band Levels to “A" Weighted Level

Converting octave band levels to “A" weighted overall levels (dBA) is done by: 1) Applying the “A" weighting values to each
octave band level, and then 2) logarithmic addition of the adjusted octave band levels. The “A" weighting values for each
octave band are:
Octave Band (Hz) 63 125 250 500 1,000 2,000 4,000 8,000
“A" Weighting Values –25 –15 –8 –3 0 +1 +1 –1

Date ENGINEERING

Example 5: Determine the “A" weighted sound pressure level from the octave band sound pressure levels used in the
previous Example (4).
Octave Band (Hz) 63 125 250 500 1,000 2,000 4,000 8,000
Lp (dB) 60 58 53 45 46 45 40 40
"A" Weighting Values –25 –15 –8 –3 0 +1 +1 –1
"A" Weighting Sound 35 43 45 42 46 46 41 39

Pressure Levels
Adding
43.6 46.8 49 43
48.5 50
"A" Weighting Overall Level 52.3 dBA
LpA = 52.3 ~ 52 dB
Note: The addition of noise levels can also be done using Equation C-8 and the difference of LpA and Lpo in Examples C-4 and C-5 is 11 dB.
DP18Ce5
Sound Power Level Calculations

The relationships between sound power level and sound pressure level are given in Eq. (4). These equations are strictly
correct for a free progressive sound wave, as in a free field, and apply to the sound passing through a given area. For practical
purposes, they can be used to determine the sound power level of a noise source if the sound pressure level is known at a
distance from the source center which is equal or more than twice the largest dimension of the sound source but less than 300
ft (100 m). At greater distances, the result will not be precise because the attenuation from the source the measurement
location is not the same for all frequencies. Figures 12 and 13 are plots of the relationship between the sound power level of a
source and the sound pressure level at any distance. Similar to Eq. (4), these figures are strictly applicable to sound in a free
field; but unlike Eq. (4), they can be used for sound power level determinations up to 3,000 ft (1,000 m).
The two most commonly encountered sound power level determinations are described and illustrated below.
➧ A. Determination of the sound power level of a sound source. Sound pressure levels for each octave band are measured
around the machine. Measurement locations are equally spaced on an imaginary hemisphere centered on the machine's
geometric center. The number of readings varies, often 12 or more. The radius of the hemisphere should be at least twice
the largest dimension of the machine. The logarithmic average of the readings [using Eq. (9)] is used with Eq. (4) to
determine the sound power level. In Eq. (4), the area is the area of the hemisphere.

ENGINEERING Date

➧ Example 6: Determine the 2,000 Hz octave band sound power level of a machine. The outline dimensions are 1 x 0.5 x 0.3
m. Twelve equally spaced sound pressure level octave band readings were taken at a distance of 2.5 m from the machine's
geometric center. The readings for the 2,000 Hz octave band were: 90, 95, 92, 93, 90, 95, 98, 93, 92, 99, 99, 98.
Solution:
1. Determine the average sound pressure level of the 2,000 Hz octave band by Eq. (9):
  Ln  
 
 12  10  
Average Sound Pressure Level = 10 log  ∑ 10    − 10 log 12 = 95 dB
n =1 
 
2a. Determine the 2,000 Hz octave band sound power level using Eq. (4). This equation applies since the sound pressure
levels were taken at a distance more than twice the largest dimension of the machine (2.5 > 2 x 1) and less than 300 ft
(100 m).
Solution by Eq. (4):
Lw = Lp + 10 log AM
AM = 2 π r2 = 2 π (2.5)2 = 39.3 m2 (Area of a hemisphere with radius r = 2.5 m)
10 log 39.3 = 15.5 ≅ 16 dB
Lw = 95 + 16 = 111 dB
2b. Determine the 2,000 Hz octave band sound power level using Figure 13.
Lw = Lp + Dt (From Figure 13, read Dt at 2.5 m = 16 dB)
Lw = 95 + 16 = 111 dB
B. Determination of the sound power level of a sound source that emits sound through a well-defined area. An example is the
noise radiating from a length of pipe. Sound pressure levels for each octave band are measured over the area. The log
average of these readings and the area are used with Eq. (4) to determine the sound power level.
➧ Example 7: Determine the 2,000 Hz octave band sound power level radiating from a length of pipe. The pipe is 100 ft long
and 10 in. in diameter. Sound pressure levels were measured at 2 in. from the surface of the pipe. No variation in sound
pressure level was found along the 100 ft length. The sound pressure level in the 2,000 Hz band was 100 dB. (Although the
distance to the measurement location is less than twice the largest dimension of the sound source, Eq. (4) can be used to
approximate the sound power level (Lw) of the pipe in this situation.)
Solution by Eq. (4):

Lw = Lp + 10 log AF – 10
log average Lp = 100 dB (no variation along length)
AF = π (pipe diameter + 2 x reading dist.) x (pipe length)
 10 + 4 
= π  100 = 366 ft2
 12 
10 log AF = 10 log 366 = 25.6 ~ 26 dB
Lw = 100 + 26 – 10 = 116 dB

Date ENGINEERING

Sound Pressure Level Calculations
➧ Noise levels at a distance equal or more than twice the largest dimension of the sound source (far field) can be predicted
using Eqs. (10) and (11). Application is generally for community or general plant area noise. These calculations can be also
made by: 1) Computer Program 3565, Report EE.75E.80, or by 2) Figures 12 and 13. The latter two are based on Eqs. (10)
and (11). In all cases, it is necessary to know the sound power level of the source. Eqs. (10) and (11) include the effects of
hemispherical dispersion and molecular absorption, but do not include other attenuation factors such as structure shielding,
wind effects, and ground absorption. For general plant design, these equations are adequate. However, the community noise
prediction can be improved with the use of the other attenuation factors (see EE.75E.80). These methods are strictly correct if
done on an octave band basis. If only “A" weighted sound power levels are known, an approximation can be obtained if the
spectrum character of the noise is known. In this case, carry out the calculation for the octave band that has the greatest effect
on the “A" weighted level. If no knowledge of the spectrum characteristics are known, carry out the calculation for the 1,000 Hz
octave band for the lower frequency noise sources such as furnaces, air fins, blowers, and electric motors, and for the 2,000 Hz
band for the higher frequency noise source such as centrifugal compressors and gas turbines. The examples illustrate the use
of Figures 12 and 13. The applicable formulae are:
➧ For Distances in the Customary System:
Lpd = Lw – Dt = Lw – [ 20 log d + 1.5 x 10-6 ( f x d ) – 2.6 ] Eq. (10)
where: Lpd = The unknown octave band sound pressure level at a

distance “d" ft from the sound source (dB)
Lw = The octave band sound power level of the sound source (dB)
Dt = Distance attenuation (Figure 12) = (20 log d) + (1.5 x 10-6 x f x d ) – 2.6 (dB)
d = The distance from the sound source in feet (to the far field receptor)
f = The octave band center frequency (Hz)
➧ For Distances in the Metric System:

Lpd = Lw – Dt = Lw – [ 20 log d + 4.92 x 10-6 ( f x d ) + 7.7 ] Eq. (11)
where: Lpd = The unknown octave band sound pressure level at a

distance “d" m from the sound source (dB)
Lw = The octave band sound power level of the sound source (dB)
Dt = Distance attenuation (Figure 13) = (20 log d) + (4.92 x 10-6 x f x d ) + 7.7 (dB)
d = The distance from the sound source in meters (to the far field receptor)
➧ If Lpd is known at some distance, d1, in the far field, then Eq. (10) or Eq. (11) can be used to approximate Lpd at any other
distance, d2, also in the far field, without needing to know Lw. This is done by using the selected equation (10 or 11) twice,
once to express Lpd1 in terms of Lw and once to express Lpd2 in terms of Lw. Taking the difference between the two causes Lw
to drop out and gives a result that can be rearranged as follows:
For Distances in the Customary System:

Lpd2 = Lpd1 + Dt1 – Dt2 = Lpd1 + [ 20 log ( d1 / d2 ) ] + [ ( 1.5 x 10-6 ) ( f ) ( d1 – d2 ) ] Eq. (12)
where: Lpd1 = The known octave band sound pressure level at a
distance “d1" ft from the sound source (dB)
Lpd2 = The unknown octave band sound pressure level at a
distance "d2" ft form the sound source (dB)
d1 = The distance, in feet, from the sound source to the known Lpd1 (in the far field)
d2 = The distance, in feet, from the sound source to the unknown Lpd2 (in the far field)
Dt1 = Distance attenuation to distance d1 (Figure 12)
= (20 log d1) + (1.5 x 10-6 x f x d1 ) – 2.6 (dB)
= (20 log d2) + (1.5 x 10-6 x f x d2 ) – 2.6 (dB)

ENGINEERING Date
➧ FIGURE 12
DISTANCE ATTENUATION CUSTOMARY UNITS
Distance Attenuation - English Units
5000
500 Hz
1 k Hz
4 k Hz
1000 2 k Hz
8 k Hz
250 Hz
125 Hz
Distance from Center of Source (ft.)
63 Hz
100
Attenuation From Center of Noise Source
(Customary Units)
Hemispherical Diffusion
And Atmospheric Absorption
Values For Air At 68°F
Sound Power Level of Source Is
Lw = Lp + Dt
10
1.0
0 20 40 60 80 100 120
Attenuation, Dt (dB) DP18CfC12

Date ENGINEERING
➧ FIGURE 13
DISTANCE ATTENUATION – METRIC UNITS
1000
500 Hz
1 k Hz
2 k Hz
4 k Hz
250 Hz
125 Hz 8 k Hz
63 Hz
Distance From Center Of Source – Metric (m)
100
Attenuation From Center Of Noise Source

(Metric Units)
Hemispherical Diffusion And Atmospheric

Absorption
Values For Air At 20°C
Sound Power Level Of Source Is

10
Lw = Lp + Dt
1.0
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140
Attenuation, D t (dB) DP18Cf13

ENGINEERING Date

For Distances in the Metric System:
Lpd2 = Lpd1 + Dt1 – Dt2 = Lpd1 + [ 20 log ( d1 / d2 ) ] + [ ( 4.92 x 10-6 ) ( f ) ( d1 – d2 ) ] Eq. (13)
where: Lpd1 = The known octave band sound pressure level at a
distance “d1" m from the sound source (dB)
Lpd2 = The unknown octave band sound pressure level at a
distance "d2" m from the sound source (dB)
d1 = The distance, in meters, from the sound source to the known Lpd1 (in the far field)
d2 = The distance, in meters, from the sound source to the unknown Lpd2 (in the far field)
= (20 log d1) + (4.92 x 10-6 x f x d1 ) + 7.7 (dB)
= (20 log d2) + (4.92 x 10-6 x f x d2 ) + 7.7 (dB)
➧ Eq. (12) and Eq. (13) were derived from Eq. (10) and Eq. (11), respectively, and are valid over large distances in the far field.
For shorter distances in the far field, where atmospheric absorption is less important, a similar derivation based on Eq. (4) is
also valid.
Example 8: Determine Lp from Lw. Find the “A" weighted sound pressure level, LpA, at 1,000 m from a 300 hp, 3600 rpm
motor. The octave band sound power levels Lw are given below in the solution.
Procedure:
1. Subtract the values of Dt at 1,000 m (abscissa in Figure 13) from each octave band power level. The differences are the
octave band sound pressure levels Lp at 1,000 m from the motor.
2. Convert to dBA.
➧ Solution:
OCTAVE BAND (Hz) 63 125 250 500 1,000 2,000 4,000 8,000
Lw (given) dB 97 95 104 108 107 106 103 99
Dt (dB), Figure 13 – 68 – 68 – 68 – 71 – 73 – 78 – 88 – 108
Lp (dB) 29 27 36 37 34 28 15 –9
“A" Weighting Values – 25 – 15 –8 –3 0 +1 +1 –1

“A" Weighted
Sound Pressure Levels * 4 12 28 34 34 29 16 – 10
LpA (dBA)
* Log addition (Eq. 8) of “A" weighted values = LpA = 38 dBA.
➧ Example 9: If an octave band breakdown of Lp is known at distance 300 m from the source, find Lp and LpA at 800 m.
(Assume hemispherical dispersion.)
Solution:
OVERALL A-WEIGHTED
OCTAVE BAND (Hz) 63 125 250 500 1,000 2,000 4,000 8,000 TOTAL * TOTAL **
(Lpo , dB) (LpA , dBA)
Lp at 300 m (given) dB 42 40 48 49 46 38 28 10 53 50
Lp at 800 m (dB),
33 31 39 39 35 25 10 – 18 44 39
Eq. (13)
* The overall total sound pressure level (Lpo) was calculated by logarithmic addition (Eq. 8) of the octave band Lp values.
** The A-weighted total sound pressure level (LpA) was calculated by logarithmic addition (Eq. 8) of the A-weighted octave band
sound pressure levels (not shown) which were determined by the method shown in Example 8.

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AIR POLLUTION CONTROL, INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE DESIGN PRACTICES

AND NOISE CONTROL Section Page

CHARACTERISTICS OF NOISE .................................................................................................................... 5

DECISION TREES FOR PLANT NOISE CONTROL ...................................................................................... 8

PLANT NOISE CRITERIA............................................................................................................................. 10

REFINERY AND CHEMICAL PLANT NOISE SOURCES ............................................................................ 12

WORKPLACE AND COMMUNITY NOISE PREDICTION ............................................................................ 13

ENGINEERING NOISE CONTROL............................................................................................................... 13

PLANT NOISE CALCULATION METHODS AND EXAMPLES.................................................................... 20

EXXON RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY - FLORHAM PARK, N.J.

EXXON RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY - FLORHAM PARK, N.J.

The reference quantity, po, accepted internationally is 20 micropascals (20 µ Pa).

The reference quantity, W o, is 10-12 watts.

where: AM = The area through which the sound waves pass, m2

The reference quantity, Io, is 10-12 watt/m2.

EXXON RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY - FLORHAM PARK, N.J.

OCTAVE BAND (Hz) FREQUENCY RANGE (Hz)

EXXON RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY - FLORHAM PARK, N.J.

EXXON RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY - FLORHAM PARK, N.J.

CHARACTERISTICS OF NOISE (Cont)

140 20 x 10 1 50 HP Siren 100 ft (30 m)

130 Jet at Take-Off 200 ft (60 m)

120 20 Jet Overhead 500 ft (150 m)

110 Under Untreated Furnace

100 20 x 10–1 Heavy City Traffic

80 20 x 10–2 Inside Sports Car at 50 mph

60 20 x 10–3 Conversational Speech

50 Average Residential Area

40 20 x 10–4 Quiet Residential Area

30 Soft Whisper 5 ft (1.5 m)

20 20 x 10–5 Studio For Sound Pictures

0 20 x 10–6 Threshold of Hearing

EXXON RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY - FLORHAM PARK, N.J.

CHARACTERISTICS OF NOISE (Cont)

Sound Pressure Level Sound Power

160 10 4 Turbo Jet Engine

140 10,000 HP Gas Turbine

10 –1 200-400 HP Induction Motor

90 10 –2 SO-SA Burner Radiating Under Furnace

10 –9 Voice – Very Soft Whisper

EXXON RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY - FLORHAM PARK, N.J.

DECISION TREES FOR PLANT NOISE CONTROL

Determine Type Of Noise Problem

Identify and Characterize

EXXON RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY - FLORHAM PARK, N.J.

DECISION TREES FOR PLANT NOISE CONTROL (Cont)

Ask Vendor for

EXXON RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY - FLORHAM PARK, N.J.

PLANT NOISE CRITERIA

PLANT NOISE DESIGN BASIS

COMMUNITY NOISE CRITERION

EXISTING NIGHTTIME NOISE LEVEL

EXXON RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY - FLORHAM PARK, N.J.

PLANT NOISE CRITERIA (Cont)

EQUIPMENT WORKER EXPOSURE LOCATIONS

Ground level Installation 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from intake opening.

Boiler 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from burner casing and forced draft ducting.

Gas Turbine 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from edge of base plate.

Diesel Engine, Gas Engine 3 ft (1 m) horizontally from casing.