Noise-control

From Wikimarcellus

The equipment used for drilling and hydro-fracturing shale makes noise and vibrations that may be heard or felt up to 1,000 feet away. This is particularly a problem when drilling takes place in urban areas.

12-cylinder engines brought in on flatbed trucks to power compressors and pumps during drilling operations are a major source of loud noise from hydro-fracturing. Also, equipment used to lower and raise pipes often have brakes that squeak.

One persistent source of noise associated with wells is the compressors which pump gas into the pipeline system. Whereas noise from drilling is primarily a short term but rather acute issue, gas compressors run continuously once the well is producing.

Noise mitigation efforts can include placing compressors inside buildings to muffle the noise as well as shrouds on drilling brakes. These kinds of measures can help reduce noise to ambient levels.