Acoustic measurement for HVAC-R equipment and consumer goods

All machines produce acoustic emissions – from heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigerating (HVAC-R) systems and units, to household appliances such as coffee machines, pressure washers, and hand mixers, to other consumer goods.

Our technical experts can measure these emissions through acoustic measurement, using advanced methods such as Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) frequency analysis.

To protect consumers and the environment, manufacturers must fulfil numerous legal requirements and noise standards for equipment and devices. Acoustic measurement assesses and certifies products to mitigate environmental noise pollution and safeguard public health.

In today's regulatory landscape, adherence to noise emission standards is paramount for both manufacturers and consumers. For corporations, compliance with stringent noise regulations ensures market access and avoids costly recalls or fines. Individuals benefit from quieter and safer environments, particularly in residential and workplace settings where noise impacts quality of life.

Understanding and meeting these standards is essential to achieving sustainable business practices and maintaining a competitive edge in the market. 

Manufacturers may not have the capacity to acquire and maintain acoustic measurement equipment, facilities, and skilled personnel in a timely and cost-efficient manner. For example, implementing techniques like sound power level determination and FFT frequency analysis into existing manufacturing processes requires significant investment and adaptation across product lines.

Our interdisciplinary experts can assist to ensure your products are in compliance with the relevant acoustic limits.

Our laboratory applies technical acoustic measurement techniques and methods. In addition, the acoustic measurement data can be used to develop noise reduction measures.

No matter the acoustic measurement requirement, our experts and facilities can deliver the support you need. Our acoustic measurement services include:

• Determination of sound power level (e.g., for HVAC-R equipment, per the EN ISO 3744 series of standards).
• Measurement of the sound pressure level of acoustic emissions (e.g., of equipment and machinery).
• Measurement of impulse levels.
• Analysis of tonal components.
• Evaluation of low-frequency noise.
• Measurement of ultrasonic measurements, up to 100 kHz.
• FFT frequency analysis. 
• Acoustic emission behaviour of equipment over time.
• Acoustic measurement according to customer requirements.
• Acoustic emissions of refrigerated vehicles.
• Full-body vibration exposure on pedelecs and working machines.
• Determination of noise levels at machine workplaces.
• Acoustic behaviour of machines in various configurations.
• Human vibration exposure.
• Machinery vibration.
• Performance measurement on jet fans.

We measure noise emissions based on national and international standards, including:

• Machinery Directive.
• Outdoor Directive.
• Eco-Design Directive.
• Noise, vibration, and occupational health and safety regulations.
• DIN EN ISO 374x series of standards.
• DIN EN ISO 5349-1 and DIN EN 20643.
• DIN EN ISO 1120x series of standards.
• DIN EN 13487.
• DIN EN ISO 13350.
• DIN EN 16583.
• DIN EN 60704.

Our acoustic measurement laboratory has a Class 1 semi-anechoic chamber built with the following specifications:

• Free area, approximately 10 m x 10 m.
• Background noise under 5 dB (A).
• K2A = 0 dB.
• Lower limiting frequency below 63 Hz.
• Constant conditions based on HVAC-R.
• Exhaust extraction.

Our experts use precise instruments and equipment, calibrated for accurate acoustic measurement under different conditions. These include:

• Brüel & Kjær pulse multi-channel measurement system.
• Premium ½” microphones for standard applications.
• Special low-noise ½” microphones for very low noise.
• Ultrasonic microphones up to 100 kHz.
• Premium triaxial accelerometer.
• Real-time processing of measurement data in the Pulse Labshop.
• Fully digital live setup for data recording of other measurement data in the measurement system.
• Recording and BK Connect post-processing.
• Portable handheld measurement device, including sound intensity probe.
• Thrust test stand for jet fans.