The study of the acoustical properties of a 3D printed noise barrier

Abstract

According to the data of the Statistic Poland, noise is the most common harmful factor in the work environment in Poland. In 2020, the number of persons exposed to noise was 181.7 thousand person. Reducing the noise hazard is a primary objective of vibro-acoustic research, and modern technology allows to achieve this goal in numerous ways. The most important and widespread technique used to reduce the risk of noise exposure of workers is to place noise absorbing or reflecting elements in the workplace. One of the less conventional methods used to produce such elements is the use of Fused Deposition Modelling. The opportunities that this method presents allow for manufacturing of noise barriers with advanced internal structures, which can reduce the noise transmission or manipulate the propagation of the sound wave. This article describes the study of acoustic properties of a noise barrier made using a 3D printer. The influence of various 3D printing settings on the obtained acoustic properties of the barrier was investigated. By measuring the acoustic pressure level and the particle velocity in three directions, the acoustic properties of the created barrier were determined.