Over the last ten years the most successfully quiet oceanographic and fisheries research vessels employ diesel-electric propulsion systems. A comprehensive noise control plan and accurate acoustic modeling are mandatory in order to achieve acoustic requirements. Given the appropriate application of the above, the approaches and treatments used to achieve stringent acoustic requirements often vary significantly from owner-to-designer-to-builder even when the requirements are identical. The critical variations cover aspects such as: 1. Owner acoustic specification - performance vs. hardware 2. Choice of diesel and electric motor, affecting acoustic source level 3. Procurement specifications that may or may not include factory acoustic acceptance testing requirements for machinery and equipment 4. Selection and implementation of noise and vibration control treatments, including the design of two stage isolation and foundations 5. Implementation of a quality control program 6. Pre-trials acoustic testing, and 7. Acceptance testing (verification). These parameters are compared and contrasted for six different research vessels. It is important to understand these variations for the appropriate, cost-effective design and construction of future quiet diesel-electric vessels.
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