Acoustical design and analysis techniques for combustion turbine projects

TLDR: In this paper, the Westinghouse Acoustic Model (WAM) was used for power project noise prediction and has been benchmarked against field test data, showing that WAM can be successfully incorporated by early consideration of siting issues and by utilization of proven design and analysis techniques.

Abstract: Environmental requirements for power generation projects are becoming more stringent every year. Acoustical criteria are also becoming a more important issue since facilities are being located closer to residential areas. In response, industry has developed advanced low noise designs which minimize the impact on the environment and on public welfare. When predicting the sound levels resulting from operation of a project, careful attention must be given to siting considerations, such as background ambient sound levels, proximity to sensitive receptors, terrain, general arrangement of equipment, and atmospheric conditions. Successful design strategies and analysis techniques have been developed, as demonstrated by a comparison of predicted sound levels with actual data from operating combustion turbine projects. A critical element in the design and analysis of these projects was the utilization of the Westinghouse Acoustic Model (WAM) computer program. WAM was developed specifically for power project noise predictions and has been benchmarked against field test data. Appropriate noise control features can be successfully incorporated by early consideration of siting issues and by utilization of proven design and analysis techniques. These techniques are also useful to minimize impacts on project thermal performance, cost, and general arrangement of equipment. Examples and guidelines are provided.