Noise is a major issue in the globalized world, and it is found in various settings such as residential, commercial, and industrial. Excessive noise can cause various health issues like sleep disturbance, hearing loss, stress, and decreased productivity.
Continued exposure to various levels of noise pollution can cause various issues, including hearing loss, fatigue, and changes in breathing levels.
For more than 8 hours a day, noise levels of 80 decibels or more increase changes in breathing patterns and tension.
Noise pollution at more than 120 decibels can cause unfavorable biochemical changes, including hypertension and increased cholesterol levels.
Top 5 engineering solutions for noise control
1. Sound Barriers
They are made up of concrete, steel, and other sound-absorbing materials and are placed between the source of the noise and surrounding areas. They are mainly used to control noise pollution from highways, industrial areas, and railways.
2. Acoustic Insulation
It involves adding sound-absorbing materials such as acoustic tiles, foams, and fiberglass to the inside of walls or ceilings.
4. Active Noise Cancellation
It is used to create sound waves that cancel out unwanted noise. It involves using a microphone to pick up the sound waves and creating a mirror sound wave that cancels out unwanted waves.
3. Vibration Insulation
It is a technique used to reduce the transmission of vibrations from the source to surrounding structures. It can be achieved through the use of vibration-damping materials or isolation mounts, which help absorb the energy from vibrations before they are transmitted.
5. Building Envelope
It consists of various structural components that enclose the conditioned spaces within an establishment, such as walls, roofs, floors, windows, and doors. A well-constructed building envelope meets the needs for ventilation, insulation, and air tightness, among other factors, ensuring optimal indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and energy efficiency.
To reduce noise pollution, one can consider the following three principles.
Noise Control at its Source Site
Reducing the noise at its source site is a primary consideration. Wherever possible, new engineering solutions should be deployed. For example, instruments like air compressors and hand-held percussive breakers that are often used near our homes should be “green labeled” during operation.
Noise Control at the Transmission Path
Making use of a building envelope is an important factor when it comes to noise reduction at the transmission phase. It is a physical form to separate the exterior noise from the interior. They are designed in such a special way to protect from external factors.
There are vVarious materials areon walls, floors, and ceilings, like heavy curtains, carpets, acoustic panels, and acoustic insulation.
Additionally, during the transmission phase, any air leaks are also sealed. Thus, by creating a tighter seal around the building, it becomes more difficult for sound to travel through the space, resulting in a quieter and more comfortable environment.
Noise Control at the Receiver End
The reduction of noise pollution at the receiver end can be achieved through a variety of engineering solutions. Some of the common techniques are:
It involves the installation of materials that block sound waves from entering or leaving a room. For the proper effectiveness of acoustic materials, engineering services help in determining the right density and thickness of the material and its ability to absorb or block sound waves.
The Potential of Building Envelope Installation to Achieve the Noise Reduction Goal
Proper design and installation of a building envelope system for achieving the main goal of noise reduction provide various benefits.
Sound Insulation
Building envelope installation can help accomplish sound insulation goals by reducing the amount of sound that enters the building through walls, roofs, and windows. It will create a quieter and more comfortable indoor environment.
Better Acoustics
By reducing noise transmission through ceilings and walls, building envelope installation can help improve the acoustics of the building. This benefit is important for spaces like conference rooms where high-quality sound is required.
Increased Energy Efficiency
Many building envelope materials that are useful for noise reduction also have good inherent insulation properties. By enhancing the insulation of a building, the need for a heating and cooling system can be reduced, resulting in lower energy bills and a more sustainable building.
Property Value
A building with a well-designed and installed building envelope system can increase property value. Buyers and renters look for a peaceful house, particularly in urban areas where noise pollution is a major concern.
Improves Overall Health
Exposure to excessive noise levels can create adverse health impacts, such as stress, sleep disturbance, and hearing damage. By reducing noise levels, building envelope installation can improve the well-being of the occupants.
Compliance with Regulations
Many buildings require minimum codes and standards that need to be followed, especially in areas with high noise pollution. The installation of building envelopes can help ensure compliance with these regulations.
Indoor Air Quality
Well designed building envelope system can help improve indoor air quality by reducing the number of allergens and pollutants that enter the building from the outside.
Cost-Effectiveness
Installation of building envelopes is generally the most cost-effective method compared to other modes of engineering solutions such as upgrading lighting systems or installing more efficient HVAC systems. Thus, a significant benefit is achieved without significant capital expenditure.
Environmental Sustainability
Buildings, especially at construction sites, are responsible for a significant amount of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. With the help of the latest engineering solutions, the building’s energy consumption can be reduced, which in turn will lead to a lower carbon footprint and improved environmental sustainability.
If you are looking for a noise mitigation consultant in Surrey BC, then please contact Voltas Engineering. Voltas Engineering is a trusted engineering firm in the lower mainland that offers services to help reduce outside noise from entering homes or buildings, providing effective sound control solutions.