PATROL BOAT HABITABILITY NOISE CONTROL

Abstract

ABSTRACTPatrol boats are one of the most difficult of marine platforms to quiet. Due to their compact size, the high power density of their equipment, and unusually long operating periods, patrol boats have noise and vibration levels which often create special problems requiring unique or innovative control techniques. The problems and solutions are generally different than those typical of larger ships. Acceptable noise environments will only be achieved when regulatory bodies, owners/operators, designers and builders recognize the patrol craft's unique problems. In addition to the need for extensive and novel noise control treatments, it will always be necessary for all parties concerned to incorporate effective acoustical design practices into the overall program.This paper presents the noise criteria applied to accommodation areas, the extent of the habitability noise control program undertaken, noise control approaches and treatments, and resultant levels on four different classes of patrol craft ‐ the U.S. Coast Guard 95‐ft. Cape class patrol boat (WPB), U.S. Navy 120‐ft. torpedo weapon retriever (TWR), U.S. Navy 108‐ft. yard patrol boat (YP), and USCG 110‐ft. Island class patrol boat (WPB). These programs include a rehabilitation, a new design, the reconfiguration of a smaller craft to suit a particular mission, and a procurement under a parent craft concept, respectively.Many of the special problems, potential solutions, and shortfalls of current approaches will be underscored. The actual steps taken during the design, construction and testing of the craft will be featured. No attempt is made to present all viable noise control treatments for patrol craft, to detail the installed treatments, or to establish acceptance criteria.