Noise Control for Gas Turbine Installations

In the electrical utility application of a gas turbine, the primary noise problem is the control of noise radiated to the community. The industry has recognized this problem for some time and can provide good noise control measures. However, the initial acoustical performance of an installation can depend quite strongly on the communication between the buyer and the supplier regarding the noise sources, the noise criteria, and the noise specifications. In this regard, both the major and secondary noise sources for a typical installation are described in this paper along with some evaluation of common noise control measures. Also, some of the important steps in developing proper noise criteria and specifications are included.