Diesel gensets have become ubiquitous in almost every commercial building. They are the secondary source of electricity across India, where electricity supply fluctuation is prominent. Despite their widespread and superior utility, they are notorious for loud noise and substantial pollution. While encasements and acoustic enclosures have helped tone down the noise levels, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) intends to reduce that even further.
Thus, the board has recently released new guidelines for permissible diesel generator noise levels. Let’s take a closer look at them.
Noise level refers to the amount of unwanted sound in a particular environment. It is usually measured in decibels (dB), with the hearing threshold being 0 dB and sounds above 85 dB considered harmful. For example, a quiet library would have a noise level of around 30 dB, while a busy street could reach up to 85 dB.
On the other hand, a rock concert can exceed 120 dB, which is considered dangerously loud and can cause permanent hearing damage. It is essential to be aware of the noise level in our surroundings and take appropriate measures to protect our hearing, such as wearing earplugs in loud environments.
In India, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has established the allowable noise levels for various regions. For industrial areas, the permissible noise limit during the daytime is 75 dB, and at night it is 70 dB. In commercial areas, the permitted noise level is 65 dB during the day and 55 dB at night. In residential areas, the permissible noise level is 55 dB during the day and 45 dB at night. Furthermore, the ‘silent zone’ category includes areas within 100 meters of schools, colleges, hospitals, and courts. The acceptable noise level in this zone is 50 dB during the day and 40 dB at night.
Noise pollution in diesel gensets refers to the excessive noise produced by the genset during operation, which can harm human health and the environment. Diesel gensets are commonly used in areas without electricity access and for backup power supply in case of power outages. However, these generators can produce a high noise level, especially when operating at full capacity.
The noise pollution caused by diesel gensets can have several adverse effects, including hearing loss, annoyance, sleep disturbance, and reduced productivity. In addition, it can also have an impact on wildlife, disrupting their natural behaviour and communication patterns.
As per the CPCB guidelines, the maximum permissible noise level for a new diesel genset with a 1000kVA capacity is 75dBA. Moreover, there should be an acoustic enclosure for diesel gensets as it aids in reducing noise reduction. The generator’s enclosure is constructed using soundproof materials that reduce noise pollution, ensuring minimal disturbance to the neighbours. For domestic use, DG sets with an acceptable noise level of 85-90 dB (A) are typically utilised.
While complying with these regulations is necessary, choosing the suitable genset for your facility is equally important. One smart way to reduce noise pollution is to use gensets with a silent diesel engine.
Silent gensets, or soundproof generators, are designed to operate quietly and minimise noise pollution. These gensets are equipped with sound-absorbing materials such as foam, insulation, and barriers that absorb and reduce noise generated by the generator.
The enclosure of a silent genset is typically made of high-quality materials that can block sound, and the generator’s design is optimised to minimise vibrations and noise. Silent gensets are commonly used in residential areas, hospitals, schools, and other noise-sensitive environments where the disturbance caused by a conventional generator is not acceptable. They offer a reliable power supply while maintaining a peaceful and comfortable environment.
While there are many ways to reduce noise levels, the most critical way to achieve that is by using high-quality diesel engines. Generators with acoustic enclosures and high-quality engines can help you meet compliance and tone down noise pollution.
Baudouin India has been manufacturing high-quality diesel engines for gensets that comply with regulatory requirements and ensure low noise levels. For over 100 years, we’ve been manufacturing supreme quality diesel engines made with European Technology to offer you excellent TCO.
