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(c) 2008 Super Soundproofing Co
Soundproofing a Generator!
(or other noisy something in a box!)
We've upgraded the basic generator soundproofing info from the book: "Quieting:
a practical guide to noise control". The new system is shown
below. It is based on the fact that air will go around corners well,
whereas sound doesn't like to. This baffling method works well for pool pumps
and many other kinds of noise sources.
Enclosure is best made of panels of "Soundboard" or "Homasote"
(from the hardwood store), with corner support strips of wood (not shown).
screwed, (not just nailed) and glued for strength. Plywood is
not recommended because wood transmits sound so readily. "MDF" Medium
Density Fiberboard is best. A lined, triple wall box
as shown is the most effective, but sometimes a double box may work well
enough, depending on the level of sound control needed.
For maximum effect, use the 2" thick "Super Soundproofing
Mat" for lining your box. Make sure the box is entirely covered: no
gaps. Cement edges for a tight fit. If in a damp environment,
use our contact cement as it has a mildew resistant retardant in it. See the
"Prices" page for ordering and price info. (On the sidebar). Cut strips of mat
for the airtight seal for the bottom edge.
Leave about an inch between the
inner and outer boxes for air circulation.
Lead or mass loaded vinyl can be attached over the box for
even more sound control. Edges must be sealed! Use lead tape and
the non-hardening
acoustical caulk available on our prices page.
Click to open
Vibration pads
should be used for isolation of the noise source to the floor. Probably not needed if floor is concrete.
Wrapping the pump or motor is an additional way of reducing
the sound emitted by it. Leave the ends open if needed for
ventilation. Use lead or mass loaded vinyl. Tie it in place with
wire or nylon "Tie wraps".
If a pump, isolate the in/out pipes by cutting out a section
at the pump and replacing with rubber hose.
Automotive radiator hose works well. Don't allow the inlet/outlet pipes to contact the
box and be sure to insulate the openings.
Keep the box as small as practical to reduce "drum" effect
and if possible, locate the box to the other side of walls, other natural
barriers, etc. If located next to a wall, sound reflection from it to
or through the wall can be reduced by covering the wall with thin absorbent
mat.
Concerned about temperature inside your box? Don't
know if you need fans? Use a meat thermometer inserted
through a hole drilled in the box to monitor temperature. Check with
the manufacturer to find the temperature tolerance of your noise source.
(Small computer power supply box fans move a lot of air are cheap and can
run on 12VDC or 110AC).
Muffler noise: Best to use a small car muffler as a replacement for
your generator muffler. Of course, all muffler exhaust must be
directed outside the box!
How to figure how much mat is needed: determine the total
square footage of the box you are lining, (width times length), then divide
by four for acoustical mat and/or
Mass Loaded Vinyl. (These are the widths
of the rolls we cut the material from). This will give you the lineal
or "running" feet we sell the material by.
You can call us if you need help! 1- 760-752-3030 9-5
Pacific time 5 days.
Or email us!
If you like what we do, please patronize
us, not our competitors!