The steady hum of a generator may seem harmless until it becomes a design constraint.
In power generation systems, noise is more than an unavoidable byproduct. It is often the result of vibration, structural resonance, and airborne sound transmission through enclosures. Left unmanaged, excessive noise can:
- Reduce operator comfort
- Increase perceived equipment harshness
- Contribute to long-term mechanical wear
- Create challenges in meeting site noise targets
Designing for quieter systems requires more than adding acoustic insulation late in development. It begins with understanding how sound behaves inside an assembly and selecting materials that manage vibration and transmission effectively.
At American Flexible Products (AFP), we support power generation manufacturers with engineered gasketing, sealing, and vibration control solutions fabricated from high-performance materials such as Rogers BISCO® Silicones.
Why Power Generation Systems Get Loud
Noise in generators and power systems originates from various sources:
- Internal combustion or rotating machinery
- Fans and airflow
- Structural vibration transferring through frames and panels
- Resonance within enclosure cavities
When vibration reaches enclosure panels, those panels can act as radiating surfaces. Airborne sound may escape through seams, access panels, or penetrations if not properly sealed.
Addressing noise effectively requires managing both vibration and airborne sound paths.
In many generator designs, engineers use a combination of blocking and absorption strategies depending on system constraints and performance targets.
Material Solutions Used in Power Generation
Rogers BISCO® silicone materials are commonly used in industrial sealing and vibration management applications. AFP converts these materials into custom silicone gaskets, pads, and insulation components for integration into generator housings and power systems.
BISCO® HT-200 Sound Block Silicone
BISCO® HT-200 is a solid silicone designed for sound transmission control and flame resistance in enclosures and assemblies.
It is commonly used where:
- Structural sound control is required
- Enclosure barriers must inhibit fire and smoke spread
- Mechanical durability is critical
Because these silicone gaskets and pads are solid rather than foam, they provide mass and structural integrity for sound-containment applications.
BISCO® MF1® Silicone Bun Foam
BISCO® MF1® is a cellular silicone bun foam available in multiple firmnesses. It is lightweight and engineered for durability and flame resistance.
This silicone foam is commonly used for:
- Vibration isolation
- Cushioning between components
- Acoustic energy absorption within enclosed spaces
Its cellular structure helps reduce vibration transfer between components while maintaining flexibility and long-term performance.
Managing Vibration and Resonance
Vibration plays a critical role in noise generation. When vibration transfers through connected parts and enclosure panels, it can:
- Amplify audible noise
- Contribute to fastener loosening
- Increase long-term wear
AFP specializes in converting high-performance silicone vibration-damping materials. We produce precision-cut gaskets and pads designed to isolate noise and absorb shock at key interfaces, including:
- Generator housings
- Access panels
- Fan and intake mounts
- Control box enclosures
- Mounting pads for power electronics
Early evaluation during design can help reduce the need for late-stage adjustments.
Designing for Durability
Power generation systems operate in demanding environments that may include:
- Continuous vibration
- Elevated temperatures
- Outdoor exposure
BISCO® silicones are engineered for these types of industrial environments and are known for:
- Temperature stability across a wide range
- Excellent thermal acoustic insulation
- Low compression set for long-term performance
- Resistance to UV and ozone exposure
Material selection should always be confirmed against specific application requirements and certifications.
Designing for Quieter Power Systems
Material selection matters, but so does how the part is fabricated and installed. Fit, compression control, and dimensional accuracy directly influence long-term acoustic and vibration performance. Even small variations in tolerances can affect sealing integrity and the effectiveness of vibration isolation.
Effective noise control in power generation systems is rarely solved with a single material. It typically involves a combination of sound transmission management, vibration isolation, proper enclosure sealing, and durable material selection working together within the assembly.
American Flexible Products works with engineers to evaluate system requirements and fabricate custom solutions using BISCO® silicones from Rogers and other high-performance materials.
If you are designing a power generation system and evaluating acoustic or vibration control strategies, contact our team for support with material selection and component development tailored to your application.
