Machinery Noise and Vibration Sources

Abstract

The vision expressed and summarized in this work is the result of the practical and theoretical experiences gained by Wärtsilä experts in more than 100 years of history. Noise and vibration have always been a major priority for engine builders; at the beginning of time, the scope was the structural integrity of parts, while it slowly moved to comfort, health, and safety. The purposes of this article are as follows: enumerate some of the main and typical noise and vibration sources onboard modern ships; propose a schematic classification; take as exhaustive example the four‐stroke diesel engines; and explain basic principle of propagation through ship structure and propose a problem solving and control strategy. The study focuses on the major effects of noise and vibration such as comfort, health, and safety of human receivers, while other aspects such as structural integrity of ship's hull or superstructure are not considered. At the end of this article, the reader will have an overview of noise and vibration source mechanisms, which may be expanded with the help of the books listed in the Reference section.