
Introduction to the system types and basic components of an HVAC system.
Outline of the methodology to assess noise levels in HVAC systems.
Discussion of the primary equipment noise sources in HVAC systems.
Parameters to understand when obtaining manufacturers noise data for assessment of HVAC systems.
Discussion of the difference between sound power level (Lw) and sound pressure level (Lp).
Examples of manufacturers noise data.
Measurement parameters including A-weighted sound pressure level and NC/NR curves.
Definition of sound pressure level, including A-weighting.
Definition of NR and NC curves and example determination of NR and NC levels from octave band noise measurement data.
Introduction to elements in HVAC systems that provide benefit in terms of acoustic attenuation.
Introduction to attenuators in HVAC systems and their performance characteristics.
Discussion about the acoustic benefit of plenum chambers with an Excel spreadsheet download to calculate acoustic attenuation provided.
Discussion about the end reflection attenuation benefit of plane sound waves at the end of straight ductwork in HVAC systems.
Discussion of the split of sound power at duct intersections and branches.
Introduction to the causes of regenerated noise in HVAC systems.
Detailed discussion of noise regeneration in attenuators.
The causes of regenerated noise from poorly designed or installed ductwork systems.
Other HVAC elements causing noise regeneration including dampers and grilles.
Guidance regarding the maximum allowable air flow velocities in. ductwork to avoid regenerated noise.
Best practice guidance regarding fan installation and ductwork design in HVAC systems.
Outline of parameters including distance, directivity, internal room acoustic effects.
Discussion of the 5 factors including distance, directivity, screening, size and location of the noise source.
Calculation example in Excel of cooling tower noise propagation to a noise sensitive receiver.
Approach to undertaking room acoustic calculations for HVAC noise in rooms.
Example calculation of HVAC noise levels to a home office.
Outline of noise sources / mechanisms in piped (plumbing) systems.
Discussion regarding water flow noise in pumps.
Outline of thermal expansion and contraction noise considerations in pipe work.
Discussion regarding the difference between airborne and structureborne sound, and the need to mitigate against both in mechanical equipment room design.
Discussion regarding the acoustic performance of various wall constructions in equipment room design.
Discussion regarding the acoustic performance of various floor constructions in equipment room design.
Discussion regarding the acoustic performance of various roof constructions in equipment room design.
Discussion regarding the acoustic performance of various door constructions in equipment room design.
This course is a follow-up to my previous course entitled Building Acoustics and Noise Control.
It is assumed that students have an understanding of the mechanical design and operation of (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) HVAC systems in buildings. This course focuses on acoustic design considerations for HVAC systems in buildings.
The separate elements in HVAC systems are reviewed with respect to acoustic importance in terms of causing noise issues or providing acoustic benefit by attenuation of system noise. The approach and methodology is presented for undertaking acoustic calculations for HVAC systems with associated recommendations and strategies for noise control. Recommendations and example constructions are provided for typical mechanical equipment rooms. Guidance guidance is provided for on-site installation of HVAC systems to avoid noise issues, and tips for acoustic testing during commissioning stage.
The course is aimed at :
1. Advanced high school and university students.
2. Mature age students doing self-serve learning on acoustics and noise control.
3. University course coordinators needing specialist content on acoustics and noise control for HVAC systems.
4. University graduates to qualify for graduate acoustic consultant job positions.
5. Engineering and HVAC professionals wanting an understanding of noise control design considerations for buildings.
6. Construction industry HVAC contractors.
Broad topics covered include:
1. Introduction: Noise in HVAC Systems
2. HVAC Noise Sources
3. HVAC Manufacturers Noise Data
4. Measuring HVAC System Noise
5. HVAC Noise Attenuating Elements
6. Branching Elements
7. HVAC Noise Regeneration
8. HVAC Noise to Outdoors or within Rooms
9. Noise in Piped Services
10. Mechanical Equipment Room Design
11. HVAC System Noise Calculations
12. Specification and Tips for Construction Stage of HVAC systems
If you have no prior knowledge of acoustics, I recommend you also take my other course entitled Building Acoustics and Noise Control.