MECHANICAL

Central HVAC System Sound Study

When a typical Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system is well designed, the noises that ultimately reach living and working quarters are made up of a) low-frequency fan noise, b) mid-frequency airflow or turbulence-generated noise caused by a variety of sources within the dueled system, and c) high-frequency damper and diffuser noises.

A Acoustics isolates all sources of ducted and radiated sound, calculates the acoustical power of the fan, and determines required duct attenuation. We then analyze the results of these evaluations, and establish performance limits based on Noise Criterion (NC) ratings. Finally, we recommend solutions for insulating the building and the equipment, as well as modifying the equipment so that the remaining noise falls within acceptable noise tolerance standards.

Local HVAC System Sound Study

Some facilities—such as computer rooms, hospitals, and laboratories—are built with independent Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. Components of these local HVAC systems can produce undesirable noise levels that significantly impact the overall work environment as well as violate OSHA requirements. To assist in controlling noise generated by local HVAC systems, A Acoustics identifies and analyzes the source of the problem. We then recommend solutions to reduce the impact of noise from the offending component. A Acoustics also can provide cost- estimates for implementing the solutions, and perform follow-up studies to ensure the desired results are attained.

Mechanical Room Noise Study

To assist in the control of noise in both proposed and existing mechanical rooms, A Acoustics first collects and calculates all relevant data on a) the noise-generating equipment contained within the mechanical room, b) the noise isolation and absorption capabilities of the mechanical room itself, and c) the impact of noise from the mechanical room on any surrounding rooms. We then recommend modifications to mitigate the impact of the noise, taking into consideration the characteristics of the structure, local codes, equipment life cycle, available resources, and cost/benefit ratios. Following implementation of the recommendations, A Acoustics can analyze, measure, evaluate, and report on the effectiveness of the modifications to ensure the desired results are achieved.