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Reworld™ Bristol

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ
What is causing the noise in the vicinity of the Bristol Thermomechanical Treatment Facility (TTF)?

Reworld™ retained an expert to study the noise, and it was determined that two of our large Induced Draft (ID) fans were rotating at slightly different speeds and suggested that synchronizing these speeds could potentially reduce noise.  

What has Reworld™ Bristol done to stop the noise?

To fix the noise from the fans, we replaced the fan motors in February 2024, which successfully reduced the noise. But we didn’t stop there. Most recently, we contracted with a third-party sound engineering firm to design a Quiet Fan Technology (QFT) noise control solution, designed specifically to further reduce the sound of the ID fans. The engineering firm also conducted modeling to both analyze the ID fan acoustics and customize the design of noise reducing QFT inserts. Based on this analysis, they designed and manufactured QFT inserts that were custom-made for Reworld™ ID fans.

When did Reworld™ Bristol hire an independent consultant to do the testing?
  • Independent Consultant was issued a PO on November 1, 2023
  • First Round of Testing conducted December 6 and 7, 2023
  • Post-Modification Testing conducted June 25, 2024
What else is Reworld™ Bristol doing about the noise?

We remain committed to working with the Bristol-Burlington Health District (BBHD) and the community to evaluate noise and ensure we’re addressing their concerns. To this end, we have again contracted with the engineering firm to enhance the design of the QFT inserts to further reduce noise. The firm conducted additional modeling and analysis (WHEN?) and custom designed modified inserts for Reworld™ ID fans. The modified QFT inserts have been ordered and are expected for delivery at the end of the second week of November and we expect that they will be installed before December 2024.

We care about our community, and we are committed to actively working to resolve this issue soon and continue to work with local officials to do so.

When was the original QFT improvement made?

The original installation of the Quiet Fan Technology (QFT) occurred in early June 2024.

Additional modeling and analysis by our engineering firm has led to an enhanced design for the QFT inserts, which are expected to arrive and be installed before the end of November, 2024.

Is the facility breaking any current noise ordinances?

After these upgrades, we hired an independent consultant to measure the noise. Their report showed that the changes we made have brought the noise levels down below the standards set forth in the City of Bristol Code of Ordinances and the state regulations.

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