Measuring Sound Power in Ducted Heating, Ventilating, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) Systems for Use in Verifying Acoustical Prediction Methods

This paper discusses issues regarding in-situ methods of obtaining sound power at a point in a heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) duct system. Such a method is being used as part of a larger investigation on acoustical prediction methods to allow for comparison of measured data to results from attenuation predictions of individual duct elements, such as elbows or dampers. Sound propagation in HVAC duct work is complex. Any measurements of sound energy in the duct must address the characteristics of sound propagation in ducts, end reflections, and air turbulence. Investigations are being conducted to understand the extents to which these acoustical issues affect measurement results. The study provides a better understanding of sound propagation in HVAC ducts for future investigation of acoustical prediction methods.