Applications | HVAC

HVAC FANS AND AIR CONDITIONING PLANT

Conventionally, it is assumed that the noise from HVAC, air conditioning, chiller and cooling tower plant can only be controlled by fitting large silencers and enclosures. Whilst there are new technologies that can be used instead of silencers (see below), in many cases the vibration from fans and compressors can be a significant contributor to the overall noise. Where this is the case, sound damped steel and other laminates provide a very simple, rugged and cost effective solution.

Reducing noise from HVAC, A/C, chiller, fan etc systems
damping fan casing and duct panelsIn the case of open systems (i.e. where fan inlets and exhausts are not ducted), once the air noise has been reduced using either conventional silencers or new aerodynamic noise reduction technology that cuts the noise at source, then in many cases the remaining noise is dominated by vibration from fans and compressors. The best option to reduce the noise further is to damp key system elements. In closed (fully ducted) systems, then damping is often a very effective option. The INVC has produced a detailed guide to noise control in chillers, air condensers and HVAC systems that includes damping to reduce noise at source.

Chiller / cooler enclosures
Fan and compressor vibration is radiated as noise by the enclosure panels. Replace with SDS or retro-damp in situ.

Ductwork
Rectangular ducting will often “pant” or vibrate. Damp to reduce the vibration and hence the noise. Quickly and easily retro-fitted without the issues associated with conventional lagging (maintenance and corrosion).

Fan motor mounts and plinths
These are often constructed from large, flat steel sheets that behave as very efficient loudspeakers. Simply add SDS retro-damp dampers to cover most of the flat areas to reduce the noise radiated by these components by 10dB or more. This can also be an effective noise control treatment for fan volutes.

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