Noise Source Identification of Reciprocating Air Compressor in a Normal Operating Condition using Spatially Low-Resolution Sound Measurement

Due to its compact size and economic reasons, reciprocating air compressor is widely used in the site where compressed air source is needed. However, sound radiation from the reciprocating compressor is irritating to many workers and also to other people in its environment. However, accurate noise source identification usually requires complete measurement of the sound source with fine resolution. In present work, sound radiation from the reciprocating compressor was measured in both near-field and far-field to identify the major noise source with relatively low spatial resolution. Sound pressure and intensity were reconstructed on the surface closer to the source from the measurement. Also, the amplitude of source was estimated from the measurement. As results, major noise source was shown and effective noise reduction strategy for refining design of the air compressor could be established.