Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)

The fundamentals of acoustic design for ventilation/air conditioning installations Author: Dipl.-Ing. Diethard Niehoff, RAL quality control association for splitter attenuators

1. The importance of sound protection when planning ventilation systems 2 Basic principles and commonly used terms 2.1 Sound wave 2.2 The human perception of sound 2.2.1 Sound pressure level 2.2.2 Volume 2.2.3 A - weighting 2.2.4 Spectrum 2.2.5 Sound radiation, sound effect, noise rating level 2.3 Sound power, sound pressure 2.4 Noise level addition (several sound sources) 2.5 Sound propagation 2.5.1 ...outdoors 2.5.2 ...indoors 2.6. Sound insulation, sound damping 3. Sound generation and propagation in ventilation systems 3.1 Typical ventilator spectra 3.2 "Natural" damping from system components 3.3 Flow noises 3.4 Sound transmission through channel walls 3.5 Maximum noise level at the site of exposure (as specified by TA Lrm) 4. Sound protection 4.1 Causes of noise and their elimination 4.2 The use of sound dampers 4.3 Common planning mistakes 5. RAL Quality assurance association splitter attenuators 6. Norms and references

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1. The importance of sound protection when planning ventilation systems The purpose of ventilation systems is to provide a comfortable indoor environment. If the noise level from a system is perceived to be too high, the users of the system are more likely to be dissatisfied if other indoor air parameters like temperature, moisture and air flow speed are not adhered to precisely. Low noise levels are therefore an important factor influencing comfort levels and require just as much attention at the planning stage as the "classic" indoor air parameters. If the buildings occupants are bothered by the noise from the air conditioning system, the environmental health authorities can prohibit the system from operating until the noise problem is rectified. Shutting down such systems can have considerable financial consequences. For this reason, all possible noise sources should, as a matter of principle, be taken into account at the planning stage and the noise level minimised as much as possible. The number of cases where the required sound level is not achieved is extremely high. However, even when it comes to abiding by the threshold values, such systems are often criticised as soon as any noise whatsoever is heard

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)
emanating from them. Although in such instances there might not be any obligation to carry out improvements to the system, satisfaction levels will remain low. In rooms where silence is required therefore, the noise protection strategies in place should be designed in such a way as to meet the lower threshold value of the range described in DIN EN 13779 as the "usual range", if they are to meet with the occupants approval (DIN = Deutsches Institut fr Normung or the German Institute for Standardisation). This is often not a question of cost but rather can be achieved through professional planning and design. This compendium on sound protection explains some of the more important terms in the field of acoustics that are required in the context of sound protection strategies, in particular in the design of sound dampers, as well as making reference to some of the most common causes of errors. The aim is to give a descriptive and practical account. By necessity, certain details had to be omitted in the interest of comprehensibility. Where relevant, the limits of such oversimplified connections are pointed out. 2. Fundamentals and vocabulary 2.1 Sound wave

Figure 1: Sound wave In large, open rooms, "static waves" can result in an unequal distribution of sound pressure. Of critical importance here is the distance from the wall= (low frequencies)

Figure 2: standing waves in reverberant rooms (Source: www.hunecke.de) << to outline

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)
2.2 The human perception of sound 2.2.1 Sound pressure level Sound is an alternating pressure superimposed on atmospheric air pressure and can (similar to alternating electric current) be expressed as an effective value. The SI unit for pressure is the Pascal (Pa).

Figure 3: Sound pressure and sound perception Between the softest, yet still audible, noise and a pain-inducing noise, the Pascal sound pressure scale covers around six decimal powers. It is therefore difficult to handle numeric values expressed in Pascals. For this reason, the logarithmic scale is preferred. The conversion is performed as follows:

Pa is the so-called reference sound pressure, with 0 dB corresponding roughly to the lowest sound pressure that is still perceptible. The advantages of the dB unit of measurement are:

Figures containing lots of decimal places or decimal powers are eliminated, since sound protection calculations can i.a. be rounded off to whole dB. Sound perception can be described better using the logarithmic scale than with the Pascal. For example, an increase in the noise level of 10 dB corresponds roughly to a doubling in volume, regardless of what sound pressure level the measurement is taken at. In addition, noise level calculations can be made more easily (levels are simply added).

Please note: The dB is not a unit of measurement in the usual sense of the term. Instead it expresses the (logarithmic) relationship of a benchmark value to a reference quantity and is (effectively) dimensionless. Sound power, damping and other physical values are also expressed in dB; for these, different reference values apply. The reference value is often understood implicitly but in other instances may be given, e.g. Lp: sound pressure re (2x 10-5) Pa or Lw: sound power in dB re W.

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)

<< to outline 2.2.2 Lautstrke

Figure 4: Curves of equal volume after Robinson-Dadson (1956) Sound perception is determined not only by the sound pressure level but also by the pitch or frequency. Medium and high-pitched sounds are heard better by the ear than low sounds. Furthermore, this tendency depends on the sound pressure level, which gives rise to a very complicated array of curves. Each curve for the same noise volume is assigned a measure with the "phon" unit of measurement (= the level at 1,000 Hz). The phon was not able to establish itself as a unit of measurement because a precise replication of the curves was not possible using the measurement technology options available at the time. << to outline 2.2.3 A - weighting Due to the complexity of curves with the same volume, a simpler weighting standard was required. And so the Aweighting curve was developed, which could approximately reflect the trajectory of auditory curves. Through the use of the weighting curve and the calculation of the total noise level across all frequencies, a practical single-number value, corresponding approximately to the volume effect, can be obtained from the noise spectrum. Every sound level meter is equipped with these kind of weighting filters. Thanks to the ease with which this single-number value can be used, the dB (A) has become established worldwide. In Germany, the A-weighting is used almost exclusively.

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)

Figure 5 A-weighting scale and equations to form the total level Notes:

The path of the A-weighting curve tends to be the reverse of the auditory curves, as the A-weighting curve more or less represents the calculation rule: these values must be added to the unweighted sound pressure level in order to arrive at the correct weighting for what has been heard. Sound power can be A-weighted too. The dB (A) unit of measurement does not therefore necessarily mean that a sound pressure level is being indicated. You can only ascertain this if the reference value (sound pressure in Pa, sound power in watts), the index (LpA for sound pressure, LwA for sound power) or an accompanying note makes reference to this. There are also B, C and D weighting curves, whose application is supposed to better reflect the volume dependence of the auditory curves for certain situations (e.g. aviation noise). However, these weighting curves have not really become established. NC or NR curves are used for weighting purposes in some countries and or situations. These curves cannot be readily transferred on to the A-weighting. The following can be roughly applied to broadband noises: This approximation does not apply to dampened sounds. The spectrum must be compared with the limit curve. The dB (A) is often criticised for being insufficiently able to characterise the annoyance level of low-frequency sounds such as those commonly found in air conditioning systems, see DIN 45680.

<< to outline 2.2.4 Spectrum As practical as the dB (A) may be in particular to characterise a noise in view of the sound protection measures necessary, on its own it is not enough. The time function of sound pressure, as can be made visible using an oscilloscope for example, is also unsuitable for weighting a noise as only very limited conclusions can be drawn from its trajectory. The frequency spectrum on the other hand gives some indication of the frequencies at which a sound has a high noise level. Sound protection measures can then be designed specially to suit this interference level and, as a result, be configured more effectively. To this end, the noise is sent through several bandpass filters situated very close to each other on the frequency scale. Depending on the bandwidth, a differentiation is made between the octave spectrum, the third-octave spectrum and the

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)
narrow band spectrum. The narrower the bandwidth, the more details become apparent. At the same time however, the noise level calculations become increasingly complicated. In everyday noise protection applications therefore, it is mainly octave spectra that are used for calculation purposes, although measurements are often made in thirds and then converted to octave level.

Figure 6: Time function of sound pressure and associated spectra Figure 6 shows the same signal in a different manner of presentation: as a time function, an octave spectrum, a thirdoctave spectrum and finally the FFT (1 Hz bandwidth). The octave spectrum is essential as a basis for any professional noise protection strategy. This data may be provided by the device manufacturer or can be calculated from measurements taken. In critical cases, an analysis of the causes of noise requires a third-octave or even narrow-band spectrum. In Figure 6, the narrow-band analysis (FFT) shows that the sound in question is 50 Hz, which will have a considerable influence on the noise level. The dB (A) on the other hand does not provide any information on the sound characteristics of the noise. Therefore, it is not evident for what frequencies a noise protection strategy must be effective. The dB (A) is used to assess whether or not the threshold values specified by the Federal Protection from Emissions Act (known as "TA-Lrm") are adhered to. Please note: With such values you must consider whether or not the octave levels are unweighted or have already been given an A-weighting. In the latter case, the A-weighting should not be used a second time in a noise level calculation. Spectra that have already been A-weighted i.a. drop dramatically at low frequencies and dB (A) is used as the unit of measurement for the individual octave levels but not for the total sound level. Errors are frequently made here; if in doubt, please consult the manufacturer. << to outline

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)
2.2.5 Sound radiation, sound effect, noise rating level

Figure 7 Characteristics of sound radiation and exposure A noise source radiates sound power (= sound emission), which leads to a sound effect (= sound emission) at a distant location in the ear of the "receiver". The parameter of the sound radiation is the sound power. The sound power is determined by measuring the sound pressure on an enveloping surface either in the open air or indoors. Where measurements are made using special (intensity) measurement technology, it is possible to achieve a standard sound power calculation even in a "normal" measurement environment. Each time however, the sound power is calculated from measured values and not read out directly from the measurement device or perceived by the ear. Sound pressure on the other hand is different: it will cause the microphone membrane or eardrum to vibrate and can therefore be measured and/or perceived directly. Alternatively, to measure sound power, the sound pressure can be used in connection with a distance value. This can be done in instances where a system that has already been installed is being tested. A sound measurement that does not specify the measurement environment, in particular the distance, is worthless. Whether or not a person finds a particular noise annoying is very subjective and does not depend on the volume alone. However, in order to create a criterion for annoyance that adequately characterises the noise situation, additions are made to the mean sound pressure level obtained during a pre-defined measurement period. These additions should take account of the annoyance factor. The sum of the continuous noise levels measured and the additions make up the noise rating level, which is the criterion used by the "TA-Lrm". The measurement method used to calculate noise rating levels under DIN 45645 is complicated and the interpretation of the results in accordance with the "TA-Lrm" is usually left to the noise protection experts. It is therefore recommended that you consult an approved noise protection agency, especially if there is the possibility of a legal dispute. In less critical cases and in cases where the sound effect remains constant over time, the noise rating level can be calculated by recording the sound pressure level at the site of immission (site of detection) with a calibrated sound level meter during a typical operation of the air conditioning system. If a tone (e.g. a rotational sound) can clearly heard, 3dB or, in extreme cases, 6dB are added to the measured value. A further addition of 6dB (A) is made for residential areas if the system is operated at "more noise-sensitive times of day" (see 3.5). Therefore, when measurements are taken "on site", it must be borne in mind that the measured value shown must often be corrected by way of additions and it is only after these additions are made that the value can be used to rate the noise situation.

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)

<< to outline 2.3 Sound power - sound pressure The sound power is a characteristic of the sound source. The sound power therefore remains the same even if the sound source is positioned in another location. Sound pressure on the other hand depends on the measurement site. The difference is illustrated by the following analogy:

Figure 8: Sound power - sound pressure (analogy) The power of an electric heater is always the same, regardless of where it is positioned. The effect (or temperature) at a specific spot on the other hand depends on the prevailing ambient conditions and the distance. Similarly, a sound source with the same sound power will create a significantly higher sound pressure level in a small reverberant room than in a large hall or in a room with sound damping features. In order to calculate sound power, defined measurement conditions are required. For this reason, standardised measurements are taken in a reverberation room or in an anechoic (= acoustically dead) measuring room. Notes:

Like sound pressure, sound power is given in dB. This presents a serious risk of confusion! In order to differentiate it from sound pressure level (= Lp), the symbol for sound power is Lw. Usually, both sound pressure and sound power are expressed in their A-weighted form (the symbol for sound pressure then becomes LPA while the symbol for sound power becomes LWA). When stating a value for sound pressure, the distance and the measurement location must always be specified. Calculating the sound power poses considerable challenges in a field environment: Frequently, the detection of the sound power of a system in its installation condition is not possible on building

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society) sites. One possibility which places fewer demands on the measuring environment is the intensity measuring environment. However, this method requires special measuring technology.
<< to outline 2.4 Noise level addition (several sound sources)

Bild 9: Level addition The addition of consonant sound sources is done according to the afore-mentioned formula, with the assumption made that the sound sources will merge into one individual punctiform sound source. In the case of sources that are different from each other, a pragmatic approach can be taken by combining all roughly similar sources as per the above-mentioned rule but leaving out those that are significantly softer. In this context, "roughly similar" means a noise level difference of less than 5dB. Please note: The above procedure applies both to the addition of sound power levels and to the overlaying of sound pressure components at the detection site. In the case of the latter, their sum must be calculated before the components are added, taking into account the distance in question (see also the next section). The rule can be applied to the air flow noises emanating from several air outlets for example. However, addition according to the number of outlets does not apply to the sound power transferred by the ventilator in the room, as this is distributed among several outlets. If two systems affect the noise level in the room, e.g. supply air and exhaust air, then the outputs of the systems must be added together (+ 3 dB where the output is the same). << to outline

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2.5 Sound propagation 2.5.1 ...outdoors

Figure 10: Sound propagation outdoors For many applications, the very complex calculation of sound propagation outdoors can be simplified by ignoring environmental influences (up to approximately 200 metres from the sound source) as well as by assuming unfocused radiation of the sound:

Figure 11: Sound propagation outdoors spherical wave In the case of muzzles or axial ventilators built into the wall however, the directivity factor should be given particular attention by adding a security margin of 5dB.

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)
Similarly, reverberant building walls will also result in an increase in the noise level (for more information on this, see ISO 9613). Notes: The "8 dB for 1 metre distance" rule of thumb often used without a second thought therefore only applies outdoors and where the sound propagation is hemispherical. This cannot be guaranteed in reverberant rooms. The difference between a noise level measured at distance r1 and a noise level measured at distance r2 is calculated at 20 lg (r1 / r2). Accordingly, where the distance is doubled, the noise level difference is 20 lg 2 = 6 dB (spherical sound propagation). << to outline 2.5.2 ... indoors Exact calculation of sound pressure indoors is very complex and suffers because of the lack of precise terms of reference for the degree of absorption of fixtures within the room. Other problems include the geometry of the room and the arrangement of the absorbing surfaces. Here too, a simplified model may be useful; in this case the diffuse sound field. Indoors, direct sound initially decreases the farther it travels from the sound source while the sound pressure remains roughly constant in the rest of the room. The greater the distance, the sound reflected from all sides will predominate (diffuse sound field). In very small, reverberant rooms, a sound pressure will emerge that is equal to or, in extreme cases, even higher than the sound power level.

Bild 12 Schallausbreitung in Rumen Close to the source, direct sound will predominate. Noise protection measures sought through the use of soundabsorbing surfaces are almost useless when it comes to direct sound. Operators of noisy machines for example therefore benefit very little from such measures. At a certain distance, the sound reflected from the walls begins to predominate. The distance at which direct sound and reflected sound are equal is known as the reverberation radius. It is only after a clear distance from the reverberation radius that room damping measures become fully effective. The sound pressure level in the diffuse sound field is determined by the sound power of the source and the equivalent absorption surface (A) present in the room. The equivalent absorption surface is an operand created from the sum of the sound-absorbing component surfaces in the room and which represents the entire sound-absorbing surface of the room.

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)

Figure 13: Sound pressure level in the diffuse sound field

Notes: The "noise level reduction" shown in the above diagram is also described as "room damping". To calculate the sound pressure level, this figure must be subtracted from the value for sound pressure. Strictly speaking, a diffuse sound field is formed only in "cubic" spaces, the edges of which differ in length by no more than a factor of 3 and whose mean level of absorption is low. For special room types, there are other calculation methods which are, to some extent, rather elaborate (VDI 3760).
<< to outline 2.6. Sound damping, sound insulation

Sound damping is achieved through the use of materials with sound-absorbing properties. The vibration of the air molecules brought about by the sound is decelerated in the porous absorption material. In this way, the sound energy is finally converted into heat energy. The indicator for absorption is the sound absorption level. Sound insulation refers to the inhibition of sound propagation through a closed wall. The process is based primarily on the reflection of the sound wave at the source. The sound pressure induces the wall to vibrate and a portion of the sound energy on the averted side is radiated once again as sound. The ratio of striking sound power to radiated sound power is known as the sound insulation index. The terms "damping" and "insulation" are frequently misused. It is important however to take note of the physical differences between the two when implementing noise reduction measures: For high airborne sound damping, a porous material suited to the sound field is required. You will need to select an absorbent material with a certain inner (length-specific) flow resistance and a suitable packing thickness. Good sound insulation on the other hand is achieved when the wall is very heavy and flexible. A high insulation index can therefore be achieved primarily through a high surface-related mass or double wall designs.

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society) Notes: Although absorbers have good heat insulation properties, their sound insulation is poor. Conversely, heat-insulating materials, which are often used to insulate pipes, are less suited to sound insulation because of their low mass. Therefore, in order to achieve effective sound insulation, an additional steel jacket on the absorbent layer is required. The sound absorption level is categorised between 0 (no absorption) and 1 (complete absorption) and depends on the thickness of the material. Values greater than 1 specified by the manufacturer are determined by the measuring method used and are actually meaningless.

The co-called "weighted sound insulation index" is often used for walls. Analogous to the A-weighting for airborne sound, this is a single-number value formed in accordance with a specific method of calculation (DIN 4109) and which makes it easier to compare the properties of dividing walls in the structural engineering field. Insert insulation index: noise level difference with and without sound protection capsule Insert damping index: noise level difference with and without sound damper

<< to outline 3. Sound generation and propagation in ventilation systems

Figure 14: Model "Generation of sound, attenuation, propagation" The "cause and effect" model is useful for, amongst other things, ascertaining whether or not it is possible to calculate the required level of damping with the data available. Generally speaking, two of the model variables must be known before the third can be calculated. f the cause (i.e. the sound power of the ventilator) and the intended noise level at the site of exposure are known, then the required level of system damping can be calculated. The term "system damping" refers to all factors that reduce the noise level in a system, including the "natural" damping of airflow pipe components and the sound propagation that occurs either indoors or outdoors. If these factors are not

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)
taken into account, the entire difference between the ventilator noise level and the sound level intended at the site of detection will have to be brought about solely by the sound damper. This will lead to the presence of unnecessarily large sound dampers and high operating costs (pressure loss!). Therefore, if the sound dampers are to be designed properly, a calculation of the noise level that takes all the significant influences into account is required. << to outline 3.1. Typical ventilator spectra The ventilator is the main source of noise in air conditioning systems. Ventilators have a noise spectrum that ranges from the lowest barely audible frequency to frequencies in excess of 10,000 Hz.

Figure 15: Ventilator spectra The sound power level that extends into the air duct can be roughly calculated from the volume flow and the total pressure loss of the ventilator at the operating point. Taking into account the rotational speed, the octave sound power spectrum and the sound power level in dB (A) are obtained from the unweighted sound power level Lw by using standardised spectra (e.g. in VDI 2081). If the operating point of the ventilator is beyond its optimal range or even outside the characteristic curve, a significant increase in the noise level can be expected. Particularly high noise levels can be expected where there is rotational noise and integer multiples thereof. The duct system connected to the ventilator also influences the sound power of the ventilator. When designing sound dampers, the octave sound power spectrum as specified by the manufacturer is preferred. << to outline 3.2. "Natural" damping from system components Bends, branches, heat exchangers and basically all other components of the air conditioning system are responsible for the loss of some of the nuisance sound of the ventilator as it is conveyed to the site of exposure. If the reduction in sound power caused by the component is known, this value can be taken into account when calculating the noise level. When this "natural damping" is factored in, it leads to a shortening in the required sound damping system. However, the risk increases that the system may not be designed to adequately cope with the sound power, as there is increased planning uncertainty in the low-frequency range. For example, the relatively high damping values for right-angled air ducts are determined by the fact that, here, the sound power is emitted through the duct wall into the environment. It is certainly not very beneficial to make the sound damper shorter and to instead provide the air pipe with sound insulation.

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)
Below, some simple examples for noise level reduction by system components are listed:

Figure 16: Damping components The degree of damping that can actually be achieved varies from one manufacturer to the other and depends on the installation site and the design size, which means that these values are only a guide. In addition, at the ends and openings of the air pipes there will be some return loss, which depends on the free opening surface and the position of the opening (see VDI 2081). The use of the opening adjustment in small rooms and in rooms with air pipes can be problematic. Basically, the sound damper should be positioned close to the ventilator and should have adequate sound damping capability. In doing so, the difficult to manage propagation of low-frequency sound in the building can be avoided. << to outline 3.3 Flow noises One of the most common reasons for the maximum permissible noise level being exceeded is that the sound generated by the components themselves is underestimated or not taken into account at all. Flow noises in the air pipe or air passage can reverse the effect of the sound damper and/or have a direct influence over the noise level at the site of detection. The inherent noise of a component should therefore be at least 6 dB lower than the noise that would be expected from the ventilator at that point. Otherwise, the noise in the duct system will become louder the greater the distance from the ventilator; in other words, the noise level will increase rather than decrease! Areas that need particular monitoring in this regard include the damper flaps and/or flow control valves and air outlets. However, even the flow noises coming from the sound damper itself can mean that the sound damper is rendered ineffective. Since the pressure loss and inherent noise data supplied by the manufacturer always assumes ideal inflow, one must watch out for streamlined inflow from the sound damper and plan as carefully as possible. The manufacturers data should be the first port of call. The equations depicted in Figure 17 only allow for trends to be deduced. An important correlation can be recognised: (57...70 lg v). A 10% reduction in the inflow speed effects a flow noise that is 3 dB lower, while a halving of the inflow speed results in a decrease of 18 dB (A).

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)

Figure 17: Flow noise (estimation according to VDI 2081)

Notes: Noise level addition for several outlets, see also Section 2.4 As well as the flow noises coming from the system components, another effect can be observed where flow speeds are high: pressure fluctuations cause thin-walled sheet metal ducts to vibrate, creating low-frequency sound in the process. So, despite the systems components being arranged properly, it still is possible that the maximum permissible noise level at the target destination will be exceeded. For further information, see literature (5). In some cases, e.g. where there are leaks, cracking or sawing noises may emerge, which may be heard as an unpleasant whistling or "twittering" sound. Here, sealing measures can often help. In addition, minor changes to the flow speed are, where justifiable, helpful.

<< zur Gliederung 3.4 Sound transmission through channel walls Ducts are usually made of thin sheet steel. Where there are low-frequency sounds and right-angled system components, there is a very limited insulation effect, which means that, on the one hand, only some of the sound power will be passed on (this results in the high longitudinal damping of the ducts) but, on the other hand, a significant amount of the low-frequency noise will reach the surrounding area. In order to avoid an excessively high noise level in the room brought about by the duct length, the best option is to position an adequately measured sound damper as near as possible to the source of the noise, i.e. the ventilator. Otherwise, the air pipe will have to be completely double-lined with sound insulation. Depending on the design type, noise level reductions of over 25 dB (A) can be achieved in this way.

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)

Figure 18: Sound transmission through a closed, rectangular air ducts The calculation of the sound pressure level expected in the room from the sound power level Lw2 is performed as described in Section 2.5.2. Sound within a duct being irradiated and emitted mainly through the air outlets can also lead to problems. Air pipes connecting different rooms act as sound bridges, which considerably reduce the insulation value of ceilings and walls, resulting in speech transmission (also known as telephony). This very irritating phenomenon must be prevented through the use of adequately proportioned sound dampers (VDI 2081, Sheet 2). Flexible sound dampers known as "flexible telephony sound dampers", installed in the immediate vicinity of the air outlets, are often used for this purpose. However, rigid pipe sound dampers and splitter dampers (absorption dampers) may also be used. << to outline

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)

3.5 Maximum noise level at the site of exposure (as specified by TA-noise) Guide values for the noise rating level are contained both in the TA Lrm and with special relevance to indoor ventilation in VDI 2081 and DIN EN 13779.

Figure 19: TA noise << to outline 4. Sound protection measures 4.1 Causes of noise and their elimination The following table shows the main causes of noise and how they may be eliminated. Sound formation/Propagation path

Procedure

Sound irradiation and conduction from the Installation of attenuators in front of and fan into either suction and/or pressure side behind the fan connected ducts Sound transference of noises from the duct via the duct walls into adjoining rooms Sound transference from noise-full rooms into the duct-system Noise radiation of the fan respectively of the machine case into the surrounding space Noise transference of one room into another via the propagation path aerial passage - ductaerial passage Noise origin in the ducts at districtions, weather safety barriers, electricity volume regulators, aerial outlets and such. sound insulating cleading sound insulating cleading, attenuator sound insulating cleading, sound-proof casing Installation of telefonic-attenuators into the transmission path

low flow speed, ideal operating point, if necessary silencer

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society) Origin and conduction of body sound via the duct-networkt into rooms with quietness demand Interruption of the propagation path by flexible connections, oscillation-damping hitches, no stiff connections with the masonry

Transference of oscillations from the aggregate oscillation-insulated installation of the onto the foundation and the construction body aggregate and damping interlayers Noise origin by duct-wall oscillations as a result of tumultuous pressure fluctuations low flow speeds, flow-favorable duct-construction, stiffening (crimping, struts)

Figure 20: Noise causes and countermeasures Several possibilities must be considered at all times. One important measure is the use of sound dampers, with splitter dampers being dealt with in particular within this context. << to outline 4.2 The use of sound dampers The job of a sound damper is basically to reduce the sound emanating from a ventilator or from any other noise source, without having any significant impact on the flow of air within the duct. Regardless of whether the ducts are round or right-angled, in both instances, the air flows through channels, the walls of which have absorbing (absorption dampers) or reflecting (reflection dampers) properties. It must be remembered that the ventilator emits roughly the same sound power into the connected air pipe at both the pressure and suction sides. Accordingly, sound dampers i.a. must be provided in both sound propagation directions. At speeds of up to ca. 20 m/s, the direction of airflow does not have any significant influence over sound damping, which means that calculations can be made in the same way for both the suction and pressure side. Thanks to their variable dimensions, width, height, length, splitter thickness, crack and the option of using different splitter types, splitter dampers are very well suited to the job of sound protection.

Figure 21: attenuator basic dimensions

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)
In order to have energy-efficient operation and low flow noise (inherent noise of the sound damper), the pressure loss must be limited. The maximum pressure loss for sound dampers in air pipes should not exceed 50 Pa. When planning systems where the sound protection requirement is high, values of less than 20 Pa are the norm. The volume flow must always be borne in mind when designing the sound dampers. The insertion loss required for the sound damper is calculated as follows:

With the exception of the (simplified) propagation damping, all values depend on the specific frequency. The insertion loss must be calculated for each octave band in the frequency range of 63 Hz to 8 kHz.

Please note: Calculation using the so-called "250 Hz method" may lead to errors and is not recommended.
Since the maximum permissible sound pressure level i.a. is specified only as a total sound level (TA-Lrm), the damping De is not clearly fixed. In other words, the same result can be reached with different damping spectra. However, in the interest of short damping lengths, low costs and energy-efficient operation, the frequencydependent damping characteristics of the sound damper should be adapted as well as possible to the noise spectrum through a combination of absorption and resonance dampers. Depending on the damping mechanism in place, the following types can be distinguished:

Absorption dampers The vibration of the air molecules brought about by the sound is decelerated in the porous absorption material. In this way, the sound energy is finally converted into heat energy. Sound dampers that work according to the pure absorption principle have excellent damping values at mid to high frequencies. For low frequencies, absorption dampers are ineffective as the absorption layers have to be very thick, which results in very bulky sound dampers.

Resonance dampers The term "resonance damper" can refer to any one of a range of different design principles, the common feature of which is a spring, usually in the form of a volume of air, in connection with an acoustic mass, e.g. a plate shutting off an air space, which is made resonate. This effect is essentially limited to low frequencies and to a specific frequency, yet it can be effective across a wider frequency range through the connection in series of differently tuned resonators. Although resonance dampers do not, in principle, require porous absorption material, a broadband effect can be achieved by way of additional damping of the acoustic resonance circuit.

Ventricular absorption damping In air conditioning technology, so-called ventricular absorption splitters are often used. In this type of damper, the absorber (mineral wool) is covered on one side by a thin metal sheet. Inside the splitter, the frame of the splitter, together with a bulkhead plate, forms a chamber. The interplay of the metal sheets mass and the chambers volume create a resonance effect, while the uncovered splitter surface acts as an absorber. The resonance frequency is agreed at around

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)
250 Hz. Compared with the "pure" absorption damper, an improved damping of around 6 dB can be achieved for a frequency of 250 Hz (gap = 100 mm, damping length = 1,000 mm).

Active sound dampers Sound dampers with an electro-acoustic operating principle (anti-sound or electronically strengthened resonators) are another interesting option. The main advantage of this technology is that high damping values can be achieved on short lengths without any additional pressure loss. However, similar to the passive resonance dampers, active sound dampers only function at lower frequencies, which means that in many cases an additional absorption damper will be required. In addition, it is advisable that the installation conditions are checked in advance and a preparatory measurement made. All of this may explain why active sound dampers have not become more established, despite the fact that they are ready for series production.

The following diagram shows the principle damping process of different damper types:

Figure 22: Silencer types For the purpose of optimising the sound damper, suitable design ranges are offered by the companies. Because of the different byways, such as

conduction of structure-borne sound in an axial direction through the damper casing and the splitter frame, bypassing of the sound damper through exit and re-entry through the walls of the air piping system,

the maximum damping that can be achieved by a sound damper is limited:

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)

Figure 23: Cross-damping V.Esche The maximum damping value can be increased by taking the following steps:

Subdivision into several subsections insulated from structure-borne sound Lining the sound damper casing (double lining principle) Applying heavy foil or an anti-noise coating to the casing Elastic storage of the splitters on foam rubber or some similar material Avoiding direct contact between the splitter frame and the individual splitters behind it using elastic material Use of compensators (elastic ducts or connectors) in the direction of the sound in front of the sound damper Placing individual sound dampers in different spaces Positioning resonance dampers first, i.e. before the absorber part and close to the source of the sound

According to the rules of the RAL quality association for sound dampers, damping values from manufacturers are limited to 50 dB. However, as the above diagram shows, this value can only be achieved at low frequencies if additional measures are taken. In order to avoid the transfer of difficult to manage sound byways, it is always advisable to position the sound damper very close or in front of the noise source and to make sure it is adequately sized. << to outline 4.3. Common planning mistakes The following reasons for insufficient dimensioned noise reduction measures are considered:

Utilisation of the "250 Hz Method" instead of the sound level calculation in octaves. boundary attenuation factor of dampers is not considered. The sound-data of the van is insufficient for the selected operating point too much flow noise of the damper Underestimation of the flow noise of air passages, control devices or air duct parts negligence of already existing sound-sources sound transmission via channel walls to neighbouring rooms is not considered sound transmission from one room to another via the propagation path air-passage, channel air-passage is neglected Usage of sound attenuators with unreliable manufactors information

Sound insulation compendium of the quality control association, splitter attenuators (registered society)
<< to outline 5. RAL Quality assurance association splitter attenuators The quality assurance association splitter attenuators was founded in 1987 with the following objectives

to determine the technical data of splitter attenuators according to consistent test-codes to name a neutral testing-centre which determines the insertion loss, pressure loss and flow noise according to determined performance- and test regulations to supervise, that the data which was determined in this way is used in the catalogues and PC-programs of the members to admit no negative divergences to the design (inclusive the used materials) used at the first audit to guarantee the observance of the values permanently by re-examination (foreign supervision) which are obligatory for all members every two years to adhere to strict principles concerning hygiene and fire prevention.

With these regulations, in particular by the intercalation of a neutral testing centre (Fraunhofer institute of construction physics Stuttgart), a high-class standard was created, which exceeds the demands of the ISO 9000. Therefore, the usage of RAL-checked silencers with the quality mark RAL-Gz 595 offers a maximum in planning security.

Advice: The mineral wool manufacturers are organised for their part in a quality assurance association. The quality mark "mineral wool" is not identical with the quality mark "splitter attenuators", however, it is a basic requirement especially regarding health harmlessness. RAL checked splitter attenuators are labelled with the RAL quality mark RAL-GZ 595!
<< to outline 6. Norms and references

VDI 2081 "Geruscherzeugung und Lrmminderung in Raumlufttechnischen Anlagen" VDI 3803 ?Raumlufttechnische Anlagen "Bauliche und technische Anforderungen" DIN EN ISO 7235 Messung an Schalldmpfern in Kanlen DIN 45 645 Einheitliche Ermittlung des Beurteilungspegels ISO 14163 Leitlinien fr den Schallschutz durch Schalldmpfer DIN ISO 9613 Dmpfung des Schalls bei der Ausbreitung im Freien Technische Anleitung zum Schutz gegen Lrm (TA Lrm) RAL Gtegemeinschaft Schalldmpfer Gte- und Prfbestimmungen (2005) Esche, V.: Lftungstechnische Anlagen und Schalldmpfer. In: Taschenbuch Akustik Herausg.: Fasold,W. Kraak, W. Schirmer,W. VT 1984 Niehoff, D. Schalldmpfer in RLT-Anlagen IHKS Fachjounal (2008) Technischer Lrmschutz. Herausg.: Schirmer,W. VDI Verlag Niehoff, D: Schwingungsanregung und Schallabstrahlung dnnwandiger Blechkanle Zeitschrift fr Lrmbekmpfung 42 (1995) Springer - Verlag Schlender, F., Klingenberg, G.: Ventilatoren im Einsatz, VDI- Verlag 1996