Air Flow Sound Level

[joan271273]

I have a construction project going on were there is a dust collection system under installation, the system will handle 4,000 cfm. How can I calculate the noise level for the air flow.

 

[ChasBean1]

joan, I don't know if you'll get a response with that question. There are way too many unknowns - opening size, duct length, duct lining, sound attenuation, vibration isolation, manufacturer's noise output data, noise from the air? noise from the motor? from the fan? etc....

 

[Goorah]

Joan: I tend to agree with Chas; however, the greatest indicator for the air moving system itself (exclusive of background sources) would be the velocity in the duct. For comfort "cooling" in inductrial applications, the maximum recommended velocity for 3,000 to 6,000 cfm high velocity systems is 3,000 fpm; which at 3,000 cfm would require a duct of 1 ft2 area.

HOWEVER: is this sufficient velocity to move the dust along?

I would think that perhaps the equipment producing the dust: sanders, planes, chippers, etc might produce more sound power than the collection system, in which case the quietest collection system wouldn't matter!

 

[heylj]

Joan,

Goorah also added some very good points. The overall sound issue must be analyzed for all components. The sound of the dust collector itself must be known and this data can usually be requested for the manufacturer. The velocity of the duct will add noise but usually if there is industrial equipment running the duct noise will not be a major concern. Also, what is being conveyed in the duct could be a factor. If you have chunks, they can rattle and bang down the length of the duct. Recommend evaluating the noise levels of all of the equipment before worrying about the noise level of the duct. You may not have much of a problem.