[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]In a significant success, experts and scientists of MS Ramaiah University in Peenya have helped the Textiles Department to greatly control noise levels and even shed the noise of power looms, after months of dedicated efforts.
Weaving yarns for their livelihood in the alleys of Bengaluru, hundreds of weavers had drawn flak from their neighbours owing to clatter of their power looms. The relentless noise of rattling looms had even pushed decibel levels to new height in residential areas prompting the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) to crack the whip on such units by slapping notices. Caught in the pincer, the textile department had a daunting task to safeguard the interest of weavers as well as ensure low decibel levels.
Working for months with experts and scientists of MS Ramaiah University in Peenya, the textile department has finally succeeded in hushing the noisy looms in Bengaluru. Their simple redesign of acoustics surrounding the looms has not only reduced the noise levels but also proved to be a cheaper option for the cash strapped weavers. Buoyed by the success, the textile department is considering extension of technology across Bengaluru and others parts of the state to bring down noise pollution caused by power looms.
The textile department had given a power loom to scientists of MS Ramaiah University in Peenya to study the noise levels and come up with mechanism to reduce noise pollution. Experimenting for over a month, the four-member team succeeded in reducing the decibel level and ensure peaceful nights to neighbourhood locals. A simple structure with sound- absorbing foam insulation around the loom has resolved the problem.
In Bengaluru alone there are close to 15,000 power looms weaving yarns inside various narrow alleys and about 60,000 families are dependent on these machines for their livelihood.
According to a report, the scientists at the Ramaiah University focused on the acoustics surrounding the machine. Making use of available technology, an enclosure was built using a particle board with PU foam internal lining. The enclosure partially surrounded the noise sources in the machine and had effects on the noise levels. The enclosure had 25 mm particle board pasted with 50 mm cone shaped acoustic foam.
The team implemented the idea at one of the power looms in a home factory. With all the windows closed and looms covered with special enclosure, the noise levels were reduced by 32 dBA (decibel). While standing outside the house, they found that the noise levels were at just 55 to 58 dBA which is national standard set by the Central Pollution Control Board. Even though they were standing next to the loom, it appeared as if they were standing in a room with normal sound of any office set up. Drop in noise levels to the tune of 32 dBA was a significant relief. With more work on the enclosure, the level could be brought down further.
Following this, the Textile Ministry is reviewing the pros and cons of the technology and will soon take a decision about its implementation.
Expressing his happiness at the innovation from MS Ramaiah University scientists of Peenya, PIA President Sri R. Krishnamurthy averred that as experts have now come up with a solution, the Government must amend the Zonal Regulation Act and allow the looms to function from residential areas also.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
