Trane TRG-TRC007-EN manual Acoustical Analysis, Source-Path-Receiver Analysis

period three

Acoustical Analysis

notes

Acoustical Analysis

VAV box

ductwork

diffuser

air handler	occupied space
(source)	(receiver)

Figure 36

Source–Path–Receiver Analysis

Achieving the desired acoustical characteristics in a space, however, requires more than selecting an appropriate single-number descriptor. Including a single-number descriptor in a HVAC system specification means that someone must perform an acoustical analysis to determine if the proposed HVAC system and equipment will satisfy the space acoustical requirements. To make such a prediction, the analysis must convert the sound-power level of the source (the fan in the air handler in this example) to the sound-pressure level in the occupied space, assessing the effect of installation and environmental factors along the way.

Sound that reaches the occupied space will be altered by ductwork, wall and ceiling construction, room furnishings, and many other factors. The validity of an acoustical analysis, therefore, depends on the analyst’s familiarity with construction details.

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