Noise Control for Fluid Power Systems

Pressure pulsation, created by the operation of hydraulic pumps in a fluid power system, is one of the primary causes of noise issues from hydraulic machinery. The wave energy resulting from such pulsation propagates in both the wall and the fluid of the flow pipes associated with the fluid power systems, inducing fluid borne vibration of the pipes and the consequent noise radiated from the pipes. The pressure pulsation can be controlled using many available techniques, including the design of quiet fluid power pumps, active control (e.g. by implementing fluid wave actuators) and passive control treatments (e.g. by installing pulsation suppressor/dampener). This paper presents a case study of noise control for a series of marine hydraulic mooring winch systems installed on a marine barge, which emit excessive noise levels during operation. The installation of passive pulsation suppressors was proposed as the most practical solution to control pulsation from the fluid power units and the consequent excessive noise radiation from the flow pipes, considering a number of factors such as cost, implementation schedule and complexity, as well as intrusion to the system.