Why Is It So Loud in Here? Free ASHRAE Session at AHR Expo Focuses on Acoustics

Why is it so hot/cold in here? And why is it so noisy?

Those two thoughts are probably all that comes to mind for building occupants in regard to HVAC&R systems.

“Occupants aren’t like engineers who specialize in this,” Erik Miller-Klein, P.E., SSA Acoustics, LLP, Seattle, Wash., said. “They’re not wondering how energy efficient the system is or how the variable frequency drives are running or how sustainable the building is. The two metrics that occupants are concerned with are thermal comfort and noise.”

The question of why a space is quiet or noisy will be examined in a free ASHRAE session held as part of its 2013 Winter Conference. 

The AHR Expo Session, “Basics of HVAC Noise Control,” takes place from 2-3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 29, in Room C147 of the Dallas Convention Center. ASHRAE Conference registration is not required to attend and no badge is needed.

“Designing HVAC systems with good acoustic performance can be a challenge,” Miller-Klein said. “This session addresses three common issues to improve acumen for sound and vibration, including the idiosyncrasies of selecting fans that optimize acoustic and energy performance for improved system design and the physics of sound that explains the performance and limitations of silencers and acoustic louvers.”

The session also will allow attendees to fine tune the most valuable and effective tool for acoustics – their ears – by providing audio examples to connect them with the fundamental aural experience. 

Presentations and speakers are:

The 2013 Winter Conference runs Jan. 26-30 at the Sheraton Dallas. The International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Expo, held in conjunction with the Winter Conference, runs Jan. 28-30 at the Dallas Convention Center. To register and for complete Conference information, click here.