Noise Control Techniques

UNIT –V
Noise Control Measures, Industrial noise control, Principles of Noise
Pollution Control, Sound Absorption, Basics about Noise Barrier, Design
of Noise Barrier, Vibration Damping, Muffling, Green Belt for Noise
Attenuation elaborate each topic

Here’s an elaboration of each topic mentioned in Unit V:

1. Noise Control Measures

Noise control measures involve techniques and technologies used to reduce noise pollution and its
impact on the environment and human health. Key measures include:

Source Control: Modifying equipment or processes to reduce noise emissions. Example: using
quieter machinery.
Path Control: Introducing barriers or dampers to obstruct noise propagation.
Receiver Control: Personal protection like earplugs or isolating the receiver from the noise source.
Regulations and Policies: Enforcing laws and standards for noise levels in industrial and urban
areas.

2. Industrial Noise Control

Noise in industries comes from heavy machinery, operations, and processes. Effective industrial noise
control includes:

Acoustic Enclosures: Enclosing noisy equipment in soundproof cases.

Machine Maintenance: Regular servicing to ensure machines operate quietly.
Vibration Isolation: Using mounts or padding to reduce vibrations causing noise.
Administrative Controls: Limiting worker exposure to noisy environments through scheduling
and rotation.

3. Principles of Noise Pollution Control

Key principles involve strategies to mitigate noise pollution:

Reduction at Source: Eliminating or minimizing noise generation.

Control in the Transmission Path: Intercepting noise before it reaches receivers.
Protection of the Receiver: Personal protective equipment and isolation.
Education and Awareness: Informing industries and individuals about the impacts and control
methods for noise pollution.

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4. Sound Absorption

Sound absorption refers to the ability of materials to absorb sound energy, reducing reflections and
reverberations.

Mechanism: Sound energy is transformed into heat energy within the material.
Materials: Foam, fiberglass, acoustic panels, and carpets.
Applications: In theaters, studios, and industrial settings to improve acoustics and reduce noise.

5. Basics About Noise Barrier

Noise barriers are physical structures designed to block or reduce the transmission of sound from a
source to a receiver.

Function: Absorb, reflect, or scatter sound waves.

Materials: Concrete, wood, metal, or composites designed for sound insulation.
Applications: Along highways, railways, and industrial zones to protect residential or quiet areas.

6. Design of Noise Barrier

Designing an effective noise barrier involves:

Height and Length: Sufficient to block the direct sound path.

Material Selection: High-density materials with good acoustic insulation properties.
Positioning: Placed close to the source or receiver for maximum efficiency.
Aesthetic and Environmental Integration: Incorporating greenery or artistic designs to blend
with surroundings.

7. Vibration Damping

Vibration damping involves reducing oscillations in machinery or structures, minimizing noise and wear.

Materials: Rubber, viscoelastic compounds, and foams are common dampers.

Techniques: Adding mass, isolators, or absorbers to the vibrating system.
Applications: In automotive, aerospace, and industrial machines to improve performance and
reduce noise.

8. Muffling

Muffling is the process of reducing sound intensity by using silencers or mufflers:

Mechanism: Sound waves are redirected or absorbed inside a muffler, lowering their energy.
Types: Reactive mufflers (use chambers and baffles) and absorptive mufflers (use sound-absorbing
materials).
Applications: Used in vehicles, HVAC systems, and industrial equipment.

9. Green Belt for Noise Attenuation

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Green belts are areas of vegetation planted to act as natural noise barriers.

Mechanism: Vegetation absorbs and scatters sound waves, reducing noise levels.
Features: Dense foliage, tall trees, and layered vegetation maximize attenuation.
Benefits: Improves air quality, aesthetics, and biodiversity while reducing noise pollution.

If you need further details or examples on any of these topics, let me know!

detail

Here’s a detailed explanation of each topic in Unit V with examples and practical applications:

1. Noise Control Measures

Noise control measures aim to mitigate noise pollution by employing various methods:

a. Source Control:

Reduction of Noise at Source: Modify machinery design to be quieter (e.g., quieter fans and
engines).
Regular Maintenance: Ensuring machines are well-lubricated and properly aligned to minimize
friction and noise.
Substitution: Replace noisy processes with quieter ones (e.g., switching from mechanical to
hydraulic systems).

b. Path Control:

Sound Barriers: Installing walls, enclosures, or acoustic panels to obstruct noise propagation.
Distance: Increasing the distance between the noise source and receiver reduces sound intensity.

c. Receiver Protection:

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like earplugs and earmuffs in noisy environments.
Designing workstations with noise-isolating materials.

2. Industrial Noise Control

Industrial environments contribute significantly to noise pollution due to machines, operations, and
transportation.

Techniques for Control:

Acoustic Enclosures:
Enclosing noisy equipment within soundproof cases. Example: A generator housed in an
acoustic enclosure.

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 Vibration Isolation:
Installing anti-vibration pads under machines to reduce the noise from vibrating surfaces.
Example: Rubber pads under printing presses.
Quiet Processes:
Implementing quieter production technologies, such as using laser cutting instead of
mechanical cutting.
Hearing Conservation Programs:
Conducting regular noise level assessments and providing workers with hearing protection.

3. Principles of Noise Pollution Control

Key Strategies:

Eliminating Noise at Source: Design equipment with built-in noise reduction.

Example: Low-noise fans and pumps in HVAC systems.
Interrupting Transmission Paths:
Installing soundproof walls or insulation in buildings.
Example: Noise barriers on highways.
Protecting Receivers:
Enclosing residential areas with green belts or using soundproof windows.

4. Sound Absorption

Concept:

Sound absorption occurs when sound waves strike a material and their energy is converted into heat,
reducing reflected sound.

Materials:

Porous Materials: Foam, fiberglass, rock wool.

Resonators: Materials designed to resonate and dissipate sound energy (e.g., Helmholtz
resonators).

Applications:

Recording studios, cinemas, and open-plan offices.

Example: Acoustic ceiling tiles reduce noise in large office spaces.

5. Basics About Noise Barrier

Overview:

Noise barriers are physical obstacles that block or reduce sound transmission.

Types:

Solid Barriers: Concrete or steel walls.

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 Green Barriers: Dense vegetation or earth berms.

Applications:

Installed along highways, near airports, or around industrial zones.

Principle:

Barriers work by obstructing the line-of-sight between the source and receiver, forcing sound waves to
diffract or reflect.

6. Design of Noise Barrier

Factors to Consider:

Height: Higher barriers block more sound; generally 3-6 meters for highways.
Length: Should extend well beyond the noise source to prevent sound from "leaking."
Material: Use materials with a high sound transmission loss (e.g., concrete, metal, or acrylic
panels).
Aesthetic and Environmental Factors: Incorporate vegetation or artistic designs to integrate with
surroundings.

Calculation Example:

Barrier efficiency can be calculated using:

Insertion Loss (IL) = 10 log ( Reduced
Original Sound Power
Sound Power
​)

7. Vibration Damping

Concept:

Vibration damping reduces mechanical oscillations to minimize noise and structural damage.

Techniques:

Viscoelastic Damping: Using materials like rubber to dissipate vibration energy.

Dynamic Dampers: Adding mass or tuned components to counteract vibrations.

Applications:

In automotive industries to reduce engine and cabin noise.

Example: Anti-vibration mounts under washing machines.

8. Muffling

Overview:

Muffling reduces noise by controlling the exhaust of sound waves.

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Mechanisms:

Reactive Mufflers: Use chambers and baffles to reflect and cancel sound waves.
Absorptive Mufflers: Use porous materials to absorb sound energy.

Applications:

Vehicle exhaust systems, generator silencing, and HVAC systems.

Example:

Car exhaust systems use mufflers to reduce engine noise levels.

9. Green Belt for Noise Attenuation

Principle:

Vegetation acts as a natural barrier by absorbing and diffusing sound waves.

Features:

Dense and tall trees are most effective, especially when planted in multiple rows.
Species with thick foliage (e.g., bamboo, neem) are preferred.

Benefits:

Reduces noise pollution by 5-10 dB depending on density.

Improves air quality and aesthetics.

Applications:

Planted along roads, near industrial areas, and around residential zones.

If needed, I can include diagrams, formulas, or case studies to make these concepts more
understandable!

UNIT –IV
Train Noise: introduction, elements of train noise, diesel engine noise,
transmission noise, rail-wheel interaction noise, vibration from railway
vehicles, modelling of train noise
Aircraft Noise: introduction, assessment of community reaction to
aircraft noise, sources of aircraft noise, aircraft noise prediction, control
of aircraft noise

Here’s a detailed explanation of the topics in Unit IV covering Train Noise and Aircraft Noise:

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Train Noise

1. Introduction

Train noise refers to the sound generated by railway systems during operation. This noise can affect
nearby residents and wildlife, and its control is a key aspect of environmental noise management.

2. Elements of Train Noise

The primary sources of train noise include:

Engine Noise: From diesel or electric engines.

Rolling Noise: Interaction between wheels and rails.
Aerodynamic Noise: Due to air turbulence at high speeds.
Braking Noise: Generated by friction braking systems.
Track Noise: Caused by joints, rail roughness, or track misalignment.

3. Diesel Engine Noise

Diesel engines produce high levels of low-frequency noise.

Sources: Combustion processes, exhaust systems, and engine vibrations.
Characteristics: Predominantly tonal and broadband noise.
Control Measures:
Engine enclosures with acoustic insulation.
Advanced muffler systems for exhaust noise reduction.

4. Transmission Noise

Generated by the transmission system that transfers power from the engine to the wheels.
Sources include:
Gear meshing noise.
Vibrations in the drivetrain.
Control Measures:
Proper lubrication of gears.
Use of vibration isolators.

5. Rail-Wheel Interaction Noise

Results from the friction and impact between wheels and rails.
Factors Influencing Noise:
Rail roughness.
Wheel tread conditions.
Speed of the train.
Control Measures:
Regular rail grinding and wheel profiling.
Use of resilient wheels and track dampers.

6. Vibration from Railway Vehicles

Vibrations from trains can propagate through the ground, causing structural and environmental
noise.

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 Sources:
Track irregularities.
Suspension systems.
Heavy axle loads.
Control Measures:
Installation of vibration isolators.
Floating track beds and resilient rail pads.

7. Modelling of Train Noise

Noise modeling predicts the sound levels generated by trains and their impact on the environment.

Models Used:
Empirical models based on measurements (e.g., Nordic Train Noise Prediction Model).
Numerical models that simulate rail-wheel interactions and sound propagation.
Applications:
Designing noise barriers.
Planning railway alignments to minimize noise impact.

Aircraft Noise

1. Introduction

Aircraft noise is the sound produced by airplanes during various phases of operation, including takeoff,
landing, and cruising. It significantly impacts communities near airports.

2. Assessment of Community Reaction to Aircraft Noise

Metrics Used:
Day-Night Average Sound Level (DNL): Accounts for nighttime noise sensitivity.
Noise Exposure Forecast (NEF): Assesses the long-term impact of aircraft noise.
Community Reactions:
Annoyance, sleep disturbance, and reduced property values.
Complaints tend to increase near airports or busy flight paths.

3. Sources of Aircraft Noise

Engine Noise:
Generated by jet engines or propellers.
High-speed exhaust gases create turbulence and noise.
Aerodynamic Noise:
Airflow over the aircraft body, especially the wings and landing gear, produces turbulent
noise.
Structural Noise:
Vibrations of aircraft components contribute to overall noise.
Operational Noise:
Noise during taxiing, takeoff, and landing.

4. Aircraft Noise Prediction

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 Predicting aircraft noise helps in airport planning and community noise management.
Models Used:
Integrated Noise Model (INM): Widely used for noise impact assessments.
AEDT (Aviation Environmental Design Tool): Accounts for fuel consumption and emissions
along with noise.
Factors Considered:
Aircraft type, flight path, weather conditions, and ground reflections.

5. Control of Aircraft Noise

Technological Measures:
Quieter engines with advanced fan designs.
Noise-reducing nacelles and chevrons on jet engines.
Operational Measures:
Noise abatement procedures during takeoff and landing.
Restricting night-time flights.
Infrastructure Improvements:
Construction of noise barriers and sound-insulated buildings near airports.
Relocating airports away from densely populated areas.
Regulatory Frameworks:
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) sets noise standards for aircraft.

This detailed explanation covers the key aspects of train and aircraft noise. Let me know if you need
diagrams, case studies, or further elaboration on any section!

Highway Traffic Noise: noise from vehicles, effects of operating

conditions on vehicle noise levels, individual sources of vehicle noise,
assessment of road traffic noise, traffic noise rating, practical aspects
of traffic noise measurement, prediction of noise levels due to highway
traffic

Here’s a detailed explanation of Highway Traffic Noise and its related topics:

1. Noise from Vehicles

Traffic noise is primarily caused by moving vehicles on highways and roads. Key contributors include:

Engine Noise: The sound produced by the vehicle's internal combustion engine or electric motor.
Tire Noise: Created by the interaction between tires and road surfaces, especially at high speeds.
Aerodynamic Noise: Noise from air turbulence as vehicles move at high speeds.
Brake Noise: Generated during braking, especially in heavy vehicles.
Exhaust Noise: Emissions from the vehicle’s exhaust system.

2. Effects of Operating Conditions on Vehicle Noise Levels

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Operating conditions significantly affect the noise levels of vehicles:

Speed: Noise levels increase with vehicle speed, as tire and aerodynamic noise dominate at higher
speeds.
Load: Heavier loads lead to higher engine noise and tire-road interaction noise.
Road Surface:
Smooth surfaces reduce noise, while rough or uneven surfaces amplify it.
Materials like asphalt are quieter than concrete.
Traffic Flow:
Free Flow: Noise is consistent and lower due to steady speeds.
Congested Flow: Frequent acceleration and braking increase noise levels.
Weather Conditions: Wet roads increase tire noise due to water interaction.

3. Individual Sources of Vehicle Noise

Each vehicle component contributes uniquely to the overall noise:

Engine: Produces low-frequency noise; dominant at low speeds.

Exhaust System: Emits both low and mid-frequency noise.
Tires: High-frequency noise increases with speed.
Body Panels: Vibrations can radiate noise, especially in poorly insulated vehicles.
Brakes: Squealing or grinding noise during operation.

4. Assessment of Road Traffic Noise

Assessment involves measuring and analyzing noise levels to evaluate their impact on the environment
and human health.

Metrics Used:
Equivalent Continuous Sound Level (Leq): Average noise level over a specified period.
Day-Night Average Sound Level (DNL): Accounts for higher sensitivity to nighttime noise.
Maximum Sound Level (Lmax): Highest noise level recorded during an event.
Measurement Points:
Near the source (roadside).
At sensitive locations like residential areas, schools, or hospitals.
Noise Maps: Visual representations of noise levels across regions help identify high-noise areas.

5. Traffic Noise Rating

Traffic noise rating systems evaluate the impact of traffic noise and help establish acceptable limits.

Common Standards:
WHO Guidelines: Recommends that outdoor noise levels should not exceed 55 dB during the
day and 40 dB at night.
Local Regulations: Countries and cities set their own thresholds for permissible noise levels.
Rating Factors:
Vehicle type and mix (cars, trucks, motorcycles).
Traffic volume and speed.
Road conditions and surroundings.

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6. Practical Aspects of Traffic Noise Measurement

Key Considerations:

Instruments: Use sound level meters or noise dosimeters to measure noise.

Positioning:
Microphones should be placed at standard heights (e.g., 1.5m above ground).
Avoid placing microphones near reflective surfaces to prevent inaccurate readings.
Environmental Factors:
Wind, temperature, and humidity can affect measurements.
Measurements should be avoided during high winds or heavy rain.
Time of Measurement:
Daytime measurements for peak traffic.
Nighttime measurements for assessing nocturnal noise levels.

7. Prediction of Noise Levels Due to Highway Traffic

Noise prediction models estimate noise levels based on traffic and environmental parameters.

Key Models:

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Traffic Noise Model: Commonly used in the U.S.
CoRTN (Calculation of Road Traffic Noise): Used in the U.K., accounts for speed, traffic volume,
and road surface.
Nordic Prediction Model: Focuses on European traffic scenarios.

Input Parameters:

Traffic flow (vehicles/hour).

Vehicle type and speed distribution.
Road surface type and gradient.
Distance between the road and the receptor.
Presence of obstacles or noise barriers.

Applications:

Highway planning to minimize noise impacts.

Designing noise barriers and buffer zones.

By addressing these aspects, traffic noise can be effectively measured, assessed, and mitigated to
reduce its impact on the environment and human health. Let me know if you'd like additional
information or diagrams!

UNIT –II
Noise pollution in India, Factors Affecting Noise Pollution, Road Traffic
Noise Monitoring, Ambient Noise Monitoring, Occupational Noise

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 Monitoring, Vibration monitoring, traffic noise data analysis, health
effects of noise

Here’s a detailed explanation of the topics in Unit II, focusing on noise pollution and its monitoring
aspects:

1. Noise Pollution in India

Noise pollution is a significant environmental issue in India due to rapid urbanization, industrialization,
and increasing vehicle density.

Key Contributors:

Road Traffic: The primary source, especially in urban areas.

Industrial Noise: Heavy machinery and factories.
Construction Activities: Noise from equipment like drills and cranes.
Religious and Social Events: Loudspeakers and firecrackers during festivals and ceremonies.
Railway and Air Traffic: Noise from trains, metros, and airports near residential areas.

Regulations in India:

Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000:

Defines permissible noise limits for different zones:
Residential: 55 dB (day), 45 dB (night).
Industrial: 75 dB (day), 70 dB (night).
Silent Zones: 50 dB (day), 40 dB (night).
Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB): Monitors noise pollution and implements measures to
reduce it.

2. Factors Affecting Noise Pollution

Several factors influence the intensity and impact of noise pollution:

Source Characteristics: Type of noise (continuous, intermittent), frequency, and intensity.

Distance from Source: Noise levels decrease with distance due to attenuation.
Topography: Natural barriers like hills can block or reflect noise.
Weather Conditions: Wind, temperature, and humidity can influence noise propagation.
Urban Design: High-rise buildings, narrow streets, and dense urbanization amplify noise.

3. Road Traffic Noise Monitoring

Process:

Measurement Instruments: Use sound level meters to record noise levels at designated
locations.
Time and Frequency:
Peak hours: Morning and evening.
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 Off-peak hours: Late nights or afternoons.
Data Collection Points:
Near intersections, highways, and residential zones.

Objectives:

Evaluate compliance with noise standards.

Assess the impact of road traffic on public health and environment.

4. Ambient Noise Monitoring

Definition:

Monitoring the background noise in an area to assess overall environmental noise levels.

Parameters Monitored:

Leq (Equivalent Continuous Noise Level).

Lmax (Maximum Noise Level).
Lmin (Minimum Noise Level).

Applications:

Planning urban development projects.

Identifying silent zones near hospitals and schools.

Tools Used:

Noise Monitoring Terminals: Automated systems that continuously record and analyze noise.
CPCB's National Ambient Noise Monitoring Network (NANMN): Tracks noise in major cities
across India.

5. Occupational Noise Monitoring

Purpose:

To ensure workplace noise levels comply with health and safety standards to protect workers.

Key Industries:

Manufacturing plants, construction sites, mining operations, and airports.

Limits:

As per OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration):

90 dB for 8-hour exposure.
For every 5 dB increase, exposure time should be halved.

Techniques:

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 Personal Dosimeters: Worn by workers to record individual exposure.
Sound Level Meters: Measure noise levels at fixed locations.

6. Vibration Monitoring

Definition:

Assessing vibrations generated by machinery, vehicles, or construction activities to evaluate their impact
on structures and people.

Significance:

Vibrations can cause structural damage and contribute to noise pollution.

Long-term exposure can lead to health issues like vibration syndrome or hearing loss.

Tools Used:

Accelerometers to measure vibration intensity and frequency.

Portable vibration analyzers for on-site assessments.

7. Traffic Noise Data Analysis

Steps in Analysis:

1. Data Collection: Record noise levels over time and different traffic conditions.
2. Categorization: Separate data by vehicle type, speed, and volume.
3. Statistical Analysis:
Calculate average noise levels (Leq).
Identify peak noise times and locations.
4. Visualization: Use noise maps or graphs to illustrate data trends.

Applications:

Designing noise barriers.

Developing policies to regulate traffic.

8. Health Effects of Noise

Physiological Effects:

Hearing Loss: Prolonged exposure to noise above 85 dB can damage hearing.

Cardiovascular Issues: High noise levels increase stress, blood pressure, and heart disease risk.
Sleep Disturbance: Chronic exposure to nighttime noise impacts sleep quality and recovery.

Psychological Effects:

Increased stress, anxiety, and irritability.

Reduced productivity and concentration.

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Social Effects:

Decreased quality of life in noisy environments.

Impact on property values in high-noise areas.

If you need further clarification or diagrams to support any of these topics, feel free to ask!

UNIT –I
Basics of Sound, Sound propagation in air, Indoor sound propagation,
Fundamentals of Noise, Difference between sound and noise, Sound
Power, Sound Intensity, Sound Pressure Levels, Measurement of noise,
Sources of noise, Outdoor and Indoor Noise Propagations, Ambient
noise level standards

Here’s a detailed explanation of the topics in Unit I, covering the fundamentals of sound and noise:

1. Basics of Sound

Sound is a vibration that travels through a medium (air, water, or solid) in the form of pressure waves.

Key Properties of Sound:

Frequency: Number of oscillations per second (measured in Hertz, Hz).

Low frequencies: Bass sounds.
High frequencies: Treble sounds.
Wavelength: Distance between two consecutive peaks of a wave.
Amplitude: Determines the loudness or intensity of the sound.
Speed of Sound:
In air: ~343 m/s at 20°C.
In water or solids: Faster due to higher density.

2. Sound Propagation in Air

Sound travels as longitudinal waves, where air molecules oscillate parallel to the wave's direction.

Factors Affecting Propagation:

Temperature: Higher temperatures increase the speed of sound.

Humidity: Sound travels faster in humid air due to reduced density.
Wind and Atmospheric Pressure: Can bend sound waves (refraction).

3. Indoor Sound Propagation

Sound behaves differently indoors due to reflections, absorption, and diffusion.

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Key Concepts:

Reflection: Sound bounces off surfaces like walls and ceilings.

Absorption: Materials like carpets and curtains absorb sound energy.
Reverberation: Persistence of sound due to multiple reflections.
Echo: Delayed repetition of sound caused by distant reflections.

Acoustic Treatments:

Use of sound-absorbing materials (e.g., acoustic panels) to reduce echo and improve clarity.

4. Fundamentals of Noise

Noise is any unwanted or disruptive sound that interferes with normal activities or comfort.

Key Characteristics of Noise:

Can be intermittent, continuous, impulsive, or tonal.

Measured in decibels (dB).

5. Difference Between Sound and Noise

Aspect Sound Noise

Organized vibrations perceived as pleasant or Disorganized vibrations perceived as unpleasant

Definition
meaningful. or disruptive.
Example Music, speech. Traffic noise, machinery sounds.

6. Sound Power, Intensity, and Pressure Levels

Sound Power (P):

Total energy emitted by a source per unit time (measured in watts, W).
Independent of distance from the source.

Sound Intensity (I):

Power per unit area (W/m²).

Decreases with the square of the distance from the source.

Sound Pressure Levels (SPL):

Logarithmic measure of sound pressure relative to a reference value (20 µPa in air).
Formula:

SP L = 20 log ( ) dB
P
​

P0 ​

where P0 is the reference pressure.

​

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7. Measurement of Noise

Noise levels are measured using sound level meters that capture sound pressure and convert it into
decibels (dB).

Types of Measurements:

Instantaneous: Real-time measurement of noise.

Equivalent Continuous Level (Leq): Average noise level over a specific period.
Weighted Levels:
A-weighting (dBA): Mimics human ear sensitivity to frequencies.
C-weighting (dBC): Captures low-frequency sounds.

8. Sources of Noise

Common Noise Sources:

Outdoor: Traffic, construction, industrial activities, airports, railways.

Indoor: Appliances, HVAC systems, alarms, loudspeakers.

9. Outdoor and Indoor Noise Propagations

Outdoor Noise Propagation:

Direct Sound: Travels directly from the source to the receiver.

Diffraction: Sound bends around obstacles.
Reflection: Sound reflects off buildings or ground.
Absorption: Vegetation, soil, and barriers absorb sound energy.

Indoor Noise Propagation:

Dominated by reflections and reverberation.

Transmission through walls, windows, and doors.

10. Ambient Noise Level Standards

Ambient noise levels refer to the background noise present in a specific area.

Indian Ambient Noise Standards (as per CPCB):

Zone Daytime Limit (dB) Nighttime Limit (dB)

Industrial 75 70
Commercial 65 55

Residential 55 45
Silent Zone 50 40

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This overview covers the basics of sound and noise, their characteristics, and propagation principles. Let
me know if you’d like further details on any topic!

difference between fhwa and crtn

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Calculation of Road Traffic Noise (CRTN) are both
widely used models for predicting road traffic noise, but they differ in scope, methodology, and
application areas. Here’s a detailed comparison:

1. Origin and Scope

Aspect FHWA Traffic Noise Model (TNM) CRTN (Calculation of Road Traffic Noise)
Developed by the Federal Highway Developed in the UK by the Department of
Origin
Administration (USA). Transport.
Used in the United States for highway and Used primarily in the UK and Europe for
Primary Use
transportation noise assessments. road traffic noise prediction.
Standards US-based noise standards and environmental UK environmental standards (like BS
Referenced regulations. 5228).

2. Key Features

Aspect FHWA CRTN

Uses a detailed algorithm that considers specific Uses a simplified empirical model
Modeling
roadway geometry, vehicle types, and based on traffic flow, speed, and
Approach
environmental conditions. vehicle type.
Input Requires extensive data on roadway design, traffic Requires fewer input parameters
Requirements conditions, and topography. (traffic flow, speed, and gradient).

Prediction Includes complex propagation scenarios like Primarily focuses on direct and basic
Range reflections and diffractions. propagation effects.
Differentiates between heavy and light
Distinguishes between heavy trucks, medium
Vehicle Types vehicles but uses simpler
trucks, and light vehicles.
classifications.

3. Calculation Parameters

Aspect FHWA CRTN

Outputs noise levels as Leq (hourly equivalent Predicts L10 (the level exceeded 10% of
Noise Metrics
continuous sound level). the time) over 18 hours.

Topography Includes detailed topographical modeling Handles simpler cases of terrain and
Consideration (e.g., barriers, berms). barriers.
Environmental Incorporates meteorological effects like wind Primarily considers standard
Factors and temperature gradients. atmospheric conditions.

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4. Applications

Aspect FHWA CRTN

Detailed analysis for environmental impact

Primary General noise prediction for
assessments of new highways or changes to existing
Application highways and urban roadways.
infrastructure.
Suitable for simpler and smaller
More suited for large-scale and detailed projects with
Flexibility projects with standard traffic
complex scenarios.
patterns.
Output Provides a more comprehensive noise profile, useful Easier to use for quick assessments
Usability for designing mitigation measures. with moderate accuracy.

5. Accuracy and Complexity

Aspect FHWA CRTN

High accuracy, particularly for scenarios with Good for straightforward scenarios but less
Accuracy
complex noise propagation. accurate in complex conditions.
Requires advanced modeling tools and Simpler and quicker to use for standard
Complexity
expertise. assessments.

6. Geographic Relevance

Aspect FHWA CRTN

Best suited for US road traffic and Designed for UK roads, but widely used in Europe
Region
environmental standards. and other regions with similar conditions.
Can be adapted for other regions
Customizability Primarily tailored to UK road traffic characteristics.
with adjustments.

Conclusion

FHWA TNM is ideal for detailed, large-scale projects where accuracy and comprehensive analysis
are crucial, such as highway planning in the United States.
CRTN is more streamlined and suited for quick assessments and general road traffic noise
predictions, particularly in the UK and Europe.

Let me know if you need further details or examples of their applications!

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