Reducing Noise in Hydraulic Systems.
Noise in a hydraulic system refers to the audible as well as inaudible sound waves in the hydraulic system generated by the pulsations of the fluid as it flows through the system and the mechanical workings of the components of the system. Any element that causes change in the fluid velocity or causes turbulence in the fluid may also generate noise. Small amounts of noise from various components adds up, gets amplified and may result in a noise problem which may cause fatigue and nerve damage to operators of such hydraulic systems or equipment. In these situations, it is imperative for operators to wear adequate hearing protection.
Audible noise
Occupational hearing loss is one of the most common occupational diseases. Noise in hydraulic systems may cause potential hearing loss in addition to fatigue to an operator handling the equipment. Noise may also result in addition load on the components contributing to premature failure resulting in additional system costs.
When the frequency of oscillations in a system matches the natural frequency for that system, vibrations occur. Each component in the system has a natural frequency and when combined will have a new set of natural frequencies. These mechanical resonance within a system caused by vibration travel through the system to all parts of the equipment via the valves, pumps, cylinders steel tubes, fittings and also through the steel wire reinforcement in hoses.
Noise elimination
Adding attenuators tuned to cancel the frequency of the system helps to eliminate noise. Though expensive and bulky these attenuators are effective and help reduce noise.
Terminating a long run of metal tubing with a section of flexible hose at each end may help isolate noise sources. However the temptation of using a single long section of hose should be avoided as hoses are sensitive to pressure pulsations. Tubing should be secured to the framework with proper clamps to eliminate rattling and banging noise.
The use of thermoplastic hoses helps to reduce noise drastically in power steering systems, hydro-static pumps, pump outlets and motor inlet/outlets. Thermoplastic hoses are available with a variety of smooth inner core materials made from polymers for a high degree of chemical compatibility and for pressure ratings from 500 psi to 7500 psi.
Consult with Manufacturer for the right selection of hydraulic hose for your specific requirement in order to reduce noise in the system.
Contact Inflex Hydraulics for the right hydraulic hose solution for your system.
For detailed info on noise reduction check this article on Wiki