NEWS CENTER

Oasis Iceberg

12

2024

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07

How closed-circuit cooling towers reduce noise


Currently, there are four main methods for addressing noise pollution: rational site planning, proper selection of cooling towers, controlling propagation paths, and protecting sound-sensitive receptors. Let's now examine these four approaches—and their specific prevention and control measures—in detail.

Currently, there are four main methods for addressing noise pollution: rational site planning, proper selection of cooling towers, control of propagation paths, and protection of sound-sensitive receivers. Let's now examine these four approaches—and their specific prevention and mitigation measures—in detail.

1. Rational Layout

Proper layout means achieving functional zoning and separating dynamic from static areas. Since cooling towers generate significant noise, they should ideally be located in areas with lower noise requirements, such as production zones or activity areas. Additionally, noise protection distances should be established between different functional zones; within areas where ambient noise levels are high, buildings or rooms with relatively lower noise requirements should be arranged closer to the noise source side.

2. Reduce Noise Source Intensity: "Choose Closed Cooling Towers Wisely"

Currently, there are many models of closed cooling towers available, including low-noise and ultra-low-noise cooling towers that continue to emerge. When selecting a cooling tower, if the chosen model cannot meet the noise requirements due to process-related constraints—particularly when the selected tower itself generates significant noise—it may be necessary to implement additional sound-reduction measures, such as sound insulation, vibration damping, and acoustic shielding, to mitigate the noise intensity at its source. The primary noise sources in cooling towers typically include fan noise, pump noise, and water-drop noise. To effectively reduce these noises, one fundamental approach is to install vibration-damping devices—such as shock-absorbing pads or springs—on various mechanical equipment, thereby preventing equipment-induced vibration and noise transmission. Additionally, installing silencers at the air inlet and outlet of the cooling tower fan can significantly reduce airflow noise by approximately 10 dB(A). Furthermore, lowering the height of falling water by incorporating permeable materials like metal mesh or polyurethane into the tower’s base can help minimize water-drop noise. Finally, equipping pumps and fans with variable-frequency drives can also help attenuate their respective noise levels.

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3. Protect the sound receiver

Under the condition of meeting the air exchange coefficient, installing sound-insulating facilities—such as a cooling tower outer enclosure—on the exterior of the cooling tower can typically achieve a noise reduction effect of 15.6 decibels.

4. Control Transmission Routes

Controlling the transmission path involves implementing measures directly on the pathways through which sound waves travel, thereby reducing the energy of sound propagation. The principle behind this approach is that when sound waves encounter obstacles, phenomena such as reflection and diffraction occur, effectively diminishing the sound energy received by objects located on the receiving side. Natural barriers can be utilized, or soundproofing barriers and green buffer zones can be strategically placed to mitigate noise impacts. When it’s not feasible to reroute around sensitive areas, protective measures should be specifically tailored to address those vulnerable locations. Noise-sensitive sites typically include residential areas, hospitals, schools, government offices, and other similar environments. To safeguard these areas, solutions like installing soundproof windows or incorporating indoor sound-absorbing materials can help minimize the impact of noise on occupants. Additionally, whenever possible under operational constraints, opt for cooling towers that produce low or ultra-low noise levels, further reducing the overall noise source intensity and ensuring a quieter environment.