Sound Barrier for Horizontal Directional Drilling

Many municipalities are replacing aging water supply and waste piping in densely populated areas. The replacement of the pipes requires noisy horizontal directional drilling. Many of these areas also have noise ordinances in place to protect nearby residents and businesses. Contractors on these projects now need to provide sound barrier walls to help alleviate the noise impact. It is important to complete these critical infrastructure updates while also adhering to local noise codes.

Source Sound Power Levels in Octave Band Format (dB, re^-12 W)

	Octave Band Center Frequency (hz), Sound Power Levels (dB)
Equipment Source	32	63	125	250	500	1000	2000	4000	8000	dBA
Drilling Rig	99	95	103	103	99	99	96	93	86	104
Rip HPU	100	99	107	108	109	110	109	106	99	115
Mud Pump/Generator Engines	97	96	104	105	106	107	106	103	96	112
Engine Exhausts	100	99	117	105	103	102	101	98	97	109
Mud Pump	95	102	103	98	96	92	88	85	73	98
Mud Cleaner	38	38	87	86	90	95	93	96	97	102
Shaker	59	59	71	80	107	98	102	94	98	108
Excavator	104	109	110	106	106	106	103	98	89	110
Light Plants	94	98	96	92	86	87	85	81	74	92

Outdoor Sound Blanket Wall

The best solution for this type of project is an outdoor sound blanket or noise curtain wall. We manufacture these blankets in several STC levels to meet any material specification and requirements. The outdoor rated blankets are manufactured to the height needed for the application. The exterior grade vinyl facing with diamond stitching withstands inclement weather and UV exposure. Velcro strips allow the panels to attach together and form a wall.

Grommets on the panels provide an easy and quick way to install them on any existing structure, such as a chain link fence. The quick installation makes them ideal for temporary projects such as horizontal drilling. After the project is complete, these rugged blankets can be taken down, folded, and stored or reinstalled at another location.

Contact eNoise Control to discuss your horizontal directional drilling sound barrier application.  We will help you determine the appropriate height and length of material to achieve your sound reduction goals. Expedited manufacturing options are available.

Read our case study about horizontal drilling noise.