Offshore Generator Noise Assessment – Petrofac

Forth Noise & Vibration was commissioned by Petrofac to undertake an acoustic assessment associated with a proposed generator installation on an offshore production platform. The study considered the potential for airborne generator noise to affect nearby accommodation and other occupied spaces.

The challenge

The project involved a major generator installation located in close proximity to an existing offshore accommodation block. The acoustic assessment therefore needed to consider both the propagation of noise from the proposed equipment and the sound insulation performance of the external accommodation façade.

Particular attention was given to noise-sensitive accommodation areas and the differing façade constructions present across the building.

Our approach

Forth Noise & Vibration developed a detailed three-dimensional SoundPLANnoise model of the generator installation and accommodation block. Manufacturer acoustic data were used to characterise the proposed equipment, with outdoor sound propagation assessed using established environmental noise prediction methods in accordance with ISO 9613-2.

The predicted façade noise levels were then combined with representative acoustic performance data for the offshore wall constructions to assess airborne noise transmission into a range of internal accommodation spaces. The assessment incorporated room geometry, façade sound insulation and the relative position of the proposed equipment to provide a robust basis for acoustic design review.

The outcome

The assessment provided Petrofac with a clear understanding of the potential acoustic implications of the proposed generator installation and identified the façade performance considerations relevant to the accommodation areas.

The work supported the project team in reviewing the acoustic design, identifying where further construction information would be beneficial and establishing an appropriate approach for verification following installation.

Services provided

• Offshore noise assessment
• Generator noise assessment
• Noise ingress assessment
• SoundPLAN modelling
• ISO 9613-2 noise prediction
• Façade sound insulation assessment
• Internal noise prediction
• Acoustic design support