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Product category: Machine Safety Components
News Release from: SoundDeadSteel.com | Subject: Acoustic enclosures
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial Team on 14 April 2006

Acoustic enclosure cuts 110dB(A) to just
79dB(A)

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SDS has designed and built an acoustic enclosure for housing 1000bhp engines under test, with the result that the noise level has been reduced from 110dB(A) to 79dB(A).

When Sound Dead Steel designed an enclosure for an engine test facility where engines up to 1,000 horse power are dyno tested, the problem was extremely challenging Prior to the SDS installation conversation in the entire factory and offices was impossible, neighbouring factories were complaining about the noise and had even bought their own noise meters to monitor the noise from this location

After the installation normal conversation can take place beside the enclosure, while outside all that can be heard is a gentle hum and the birds singing.

The enclosure needed an observation windows which were 10mm thick polycarbonate and access doors for a forklift to drop the massive engines in place.

The steel used was 2mm SDS Sonphonon which controlled the radiated noise and lined with 50mm SDS acoustic foam which absorbed the airborne noise.

An extraction system was included to ventilate the enclosure to remove fumes and heat from the test bed.

A point to bear in mind is that every decibel reduction represents a 27% reduction in the power level, 3 decibels = 50% reduction, 10 decibels = 1000% reduction.

A video of this enclosure is on the company's web site, or can be emailed direct if requested.

The first part of the clip shows a motor on full revs without any enclosure in place, the reading peaked at 110dB(A), it then shows the enclosure in place with the doors open which gives a reading of 99dB(A), as the doors close the reading drops to 79dB(A).

This reduction has removed more than 99% of the original power level.

The next phase shows the motor on tickover, with the doors open the noise is 94dB(A) reducing to 69dB(A) with them closed.

Again this is a power reduction in excess of 99%.

The enclosure reduces noise so well I am pleased we have speech in the background as the doors shut, they give continuity and confirm the noise reduction shown on the meter.

If you require further information, please visit the website or contact SDS direct.

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