Letters from the edge: Less conventional acoustical solutions Free

The essence of acoustical analysis and problem solving still is source - path - receiver, yet, as standards, criteria and products evolve, solution precedents should be revalidated or invalidated, and new, innovative approaches should be considered. While weighing the best interests of the client, should one rigidly follow procedures developed long ago for average or anticipated conditions? Or is the conventional wisdom not always correct? This paper presents a noise control product selection procedure and a series of short case-studies where noise or vibration were treated at the source and/or along the path, but with some "twist" or variation from typical solution applications. Relevant standards, ordinances or criteria are referenced. Where available, on-site acoustical measurements, observations or receiver experiences illustrate concepts. A selection procedure for pipe mufflers and duct attenuators is presented. Case studies include industrial engine test cell environmental noise, a coffee roasting and grinding shop within a grocery market and a high-rise domestic water booster/circulation pump room adjacent to a residential unit.