Noise Generation by Fluid Flow in Pipes

Many industrial processes involve high-velocity and high-pressure fluid flow in piping systems. Such systems can be a source of significant process noise. In this paper, the major sources of noise associated with straight pipes, pipe turns, valves, and other flow discontinuities are identified. Procedures are developed whereby the noise radiation into the surrounding environment may be estimated. These procedures also enable the influence of changes in system design to be predicted. Some comparisons of these procedures with field data are presented.