Engine Test Cell Noise Emission Design with Performance Validation Results

Abstract

An existing industrial test facility was proposed to be relocated from a plant site in a high ambient noise environment to a community with low ambient noise. The existing facility contained engine test cells and support equipment with loud noise emissions. The original location was in an industrial park, adjacent to a high-speed multi-lane divided highway, but residential communities were nearby. Few noise complaints had been received at the existing location. The proposed future site was in a semi-rural area, near a two lane, moderate speed roadway. Although some moderate environmental noise emissions existed from an industrial installation on the existing site, the potential was recognised for community noise disturbance from the introduction of a new noise source. JEAcoustics was retained to assess the ambient noise environments and noise emission characteristics for the purpose of determining attenuation requirements for the new facility. A consultant's confidentiality agreement with the owner prevents disclosure of the facility name, plant locations, discussion of plant processes or revelation of other proprietary information. This case study presents the findings of that effort and the noise criteria that were established. Noise control designs and product applications are discussed with results of postconstruction noise validation measurements.