In order to implement an effective noise abatement system, a quantitative acoustical design goal must be established. Quantitative design goals depend on the application. Work place noise exposure design goals are typically defined by OSHA 1910.95 – Occupational Noise Exposure, MSHA 30 CFR Part 62 – Occupational Noise Exposure, and/or NIOSH best practice metrics.
Once the design criteria are established, baseline acoustical data is collected in the plant and at the operator positions during various production and non-production conditions. The acoustical data will be analyzed on the weighting networks A and linear scale, 1/1 and 1/3 octaves, Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) bands covering the audio-frequency range of 22.5 to 20,000 Hz.
The Existing acoustical data is compared to the Design Goal criteria to identify the noise reduction required to provide the desired acoustical result. The degree of noise reduction and the frequency content characteristics are necessary to design the proper noise abatement system.
In order to efficiently attenuate noise sources, it is necessary to determine the transmission path by which the source travels to the receiver. There could be line-of-sight airborne sound transmission, structure-borne vibration transmission, flanking noise, transmission along ductwork, or penetrations between the noise sources and receiver. All paths must be investigated to ensure an effective abatement system.
The noise abatement system is designed considering the noise reduction requirements, frequency content, sound transmission paths, and operational considerations. Because the performance of acoustical materials is frequency dependent, the design of the control measure must consider the magnitude and frequency of the source and the degree of attenuation required. Conceptual designs are reviewed with engineering, production, and maintenance to ensure that the operational concerns have been considered in the final design. Construction specifications and costs are then formulated for each item and included with conceptual drawings.
The final report will include the acoustical analysis and supporting data, noise control recommendations, material specifications, and cost estimates. This information is compiled through our industrial noise control monitoring and allows the client to evaluate acoustical performance versus cost.
Acoustical Systems, Inc. offers turnkey implementation of recommended noise control systems. ASI can engineer, design, supply and install system components for a successful turnkey implementation. ASI can provide a written guarantee that the agreed upon noise level result will be achieved upon system implementation using our turnkey services.