BP Exploration - Central Gas Facility
Prudhoe Bay, AK
Engineered Noise Control Solution
SSA Acoustics completed a thorough noise assessment of multiple interior spaces within the facility to develop a noise map describing the sound within the space. From these measurements a 3-dimensional noise model was created to provide a virtual test environment. With this noise model we were able to predict the performance of various mitigation measures, eliminating guess work and limiting treatment to only the amount necessary.
Recommendations:
A phased design and installation approach was recommended to address the most significant noise sources first. We engineered one solution to reduce sound transmission from the large diameter piping utilizing a mass-air-mass barrier pipe wrap; this assembly was designed specifically for this application and reduced the overall noise level by 6-8 decibels, which is a 70% noise reduction.
Challenges
With a pre-condition of over 105 dB(A), compressor room 2 presented the challenge of lowering the noise level in a space that was completely lined with good room absorption. The space operated 24-hours a day processing over 1,700 million cubic feet of natural gas per day.
Solutions:
The design and use specifications defined by the BP engineering and maintenance team were considered in each design option. Our goal of significantly reducing the noise without impeding operations was successful, achieving a room reduction average of 12 decibels.