BY AMANDA E.

McKEW

h v a c r designer tips
Acoustical issues
DRAWING CHECKLIST:
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I I I I I I I I I I I I Equipment designation on drawing. Equipment scheduled and specified in construction documents. Structural data (weights for housekeeping pad with inertia pads) coordinated with structural engineer. Reference to applicable details indicated on drawing. Duct distribution designate sound attenuators on drawing. Sound attenuators scheduled and specified in construction documents.

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Locate rotating and/or reciprocating equipment away from critical areas. Equipment located on roof or floor above may require vibration isolation. Consider flexible connections between rotating and/or reciprocating equipment pipes that are connected to equipment. Use flexible duct connections at fan inlet and outlet. Consider acoustical barriers associated with outside equipment. Coordinate with architect. Consult acoustical engineer for noise-sensitive area requirements. Consider harmonic noise when locating variable-speed devices.

DESIGN CHECKLIST:
YES N/A
I I I I I I I I Identify sound sources associated with the hvac system. Minimize flow resistance and turbulence in duct design. Try to accommodate straightest line of airflow through ductwork (to minimize pressure drop). Locate sound attenuators in duct distribution per manufacturers recommendations regarding proper upstream/downstream distances. Locate diffusers, registers, or grilles downstream as far as possible from elbows and branch take-offs. Locate individual branch duct volume dampers as far upstream as possible from diffuser, register, or grille. Specify branch duct volume dampers in lieu of opposed blade dampers with diffusers. Size diffusers, registers, and grilles based on sound criteria, as well as cfm capacity. (Rule of thumb: Do not exceed 500 fpm at the neck.) Use turning vanes in square elbows if a long radius elbow is not possible. Select fans for minimum sound power, as well as for fan curve performance. Use hospital grade sound attenuators when necessary. Locate duct silencers (when required) as duct enters and/or leaves equipment room at the equipment room wall to prevent break out noise. Select duct silencers that provide minimum additional fan static pressure drop while satisfying sound reduction requirements.

VALUE ENGINEERING TIPS:

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I I I I I I System selection analysis based on ASHRAE Applications Handbook, 1999 (Chapter 46). Concrete inertia pad probably not needed when located slab on grade. Balance rotating and reciprocating equipment.

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If you have any comments, suggestions, or questions regarding this designer checklist, contact Amanda McKew at amckew@hvac.vanderweil.com.

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44 Engineered Systems January 2000