Insultech blanket insulation

INSULTECH

Study 5.1
Multi Stage Centrifugal Compressors, Piping, Coolers & Gearbox

Design Specification: LT450A-TT - 1.5" Thickness

Centrifugal Air Compressors
This case study was performed on 2 each multi-stage centrifugal air compressors. Using a sound pressure level meter, an ambient dBA reading of 94 dBA was taken in the utilities powerhouse. This reading was equidistant to both compressors thirty feet apart. In addition, readings were taken 3 feet from each machine at various locations around the compressors.

Sound Readings
Readings were taken before and after installation of INSULTECH Acoustic Blanket Insulation while both compressors were at full load. Using a 1.5" thick design LT-450A-TT, blanket insulation performance varied as shown below.

Additional Sound Sources
The two centrifugal air compressors were accompanied by lower level contributing sources from five other reciprocating compressors smaller in size and output. The Joy and Atlas Compressors represented the majority of sound source, however significant levels still remain due to other related equipment.

Quick and Easy Blanket Installation
Blankets were custom fit to match existing surface conditions. Installation was simple and quick. All blankets were tagged with a numerical sequence corresponding to an installation assembly drawing. Blankets included Velcro flap fasteners and stainless steel Wiretwists. Blankets were designed to be removed and reinstalled at any time. Installation assembly drawings were provided for future reference to individual blanket location.

Machine 1

Machine 2

Sound readings were as follows:

Machine 1 • Atlas 3 Stage Compressor

Machine 2 • Joy 3 Stage Compressor

Location Description

Before Treatment

After Treatment

Location Description

Before Treatment

After Treatment

Inlet IGV Piping

101.5 dBA

92.0 dBA

Motor Housing - Sides

111.0 dBA

95.0 dBA

Inlet 2nd Stage Compressor

96.0 dBA

90.0 dBA

Discharge 1st Stage Compressor

100.0 dBA

94.3 dBA

Discharge 3rd Stage Compressor

105.0 dBA

93.0 dBA

Inlet 3rd Stage Compressor

101.0 dBA

93.3 dBA

Overall dBA Reduction: 8.6 dBA

Overall dBA Reduction: 8.8 dBA

Ambient Level in Power House • Before: 94 dBA • After: 92 dBA