Generator noise control products

Noise control products for generators and backup power equipment

Generators are present on virtually every significant construction, infrastructure and industrial project in Australia. They are also a persistent source of EPA noise complaints and WHS noise exposure issues. The combined exhaust, mechanical, and airflow noise from a generator set can be substantial, and the proximity of generators to workers and neighbouring properties makes the issue hard to ignore.

Flexshield designs and manufactures acoustic products for generators across a range of sizes, configurations and applications.

Understanding generator noise

Generator noise comes from three main sources. Exhaust noise is typically the dominant source and is characterised by low-frequency components that are difficult to attenuate with standard barriers. Mechanical noise is broadband and responds well to enclosure treatment. Cooling airflow noise is generated by the fans and managed through attenuated louvres or duct treatment.

An effective approach to generator noise addresses all three sources rather than targeting one in isolation. A silencer that reduces exhaust noise without enclosure still leaves mechanical and airflow noise unaddressed. An enclosure without a silencer leaves the exhaust as the dominant remaining source.

Generator acoustic products

Sonic acoustic enclosures: Custom generator enclosures designed to attenuate mechanical and cooling noise while maintaining airflow and service access. Flexshield enclosures are built from Sonic System acoustic modular panels, with integrated Sonic Series acoustic louvres for ventilation and Sonic Access acoustic doors for service access. Enclosures are designed to project-specific dimensions and acoustic requirements.

Sonic acoustic barriers and noise walls: Where the generator is not enclosed, or where site layout makes enclosure impractical, these barriers and walls reduce the contribution of generator noise to boundary levels. Flexshield’s modular acoustic panel systems can be configured as perimeter barriers or partial screens.

Sonic Series acoustic louvres: For generator rooms and plant enclosures, Sonic Series acoustic louvres provide managed ventilation with controlled noise breakout. Multiple louvre configurations are available to suit airflow requirements and attenuation targets.