Noise Engineers is working with Davy Architecture on the acoustics for the remodel of the Emerson Bandini Elementary School located in San Diego, California. The primary acoustical issues being addressed are: mechanical noise, sound isolation, impact insulation, and room acoustics.
The heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are being replaced. Sound Solutions is:
- reviewing the structural support and vibration isolation of mechanical equipment and piping,
- predicting mechanical equipment noise radiating into various spaces,
- reviewing vibration isolation and the routing of plumbing piping
Compare the predicted noise levels from mechanical equipment to the design guidelines based on industry standards and the California guidelines.
For exterior to interior noise, Sound Solutions measured the existing noise levels where the school will be located and observe the conditions as they pertain to sound propagation. Based on the proposed exterior construction, calculate the interior noise level. Compare the predicted interior noise levels with design guidelines, based on industry standards. Provide recommendations to improve the exterior construction to meet the design goals.
For sound isolation, review the partition types between classrooms and between other noise sensitive spaces. Calculate the associated Sound Transmission Class (STC) and compare them with design guidelines from industry standards. Provide recommendations, where needed, to improve the STC to meet the guideline.
There are two stories of classes. Sound Solutions is reviewing the floor-ceiling construction between classes and predicting the Impact Insulation Class (IIC) based on the proposed construction. We will compare the predicted IIC with the design guidelines and, if needed, provide recommendations to improve the floor-ceiling system to meet the guideline.
The room acoustics in the classrooms and multi-purpose room are the primary areas of concern. The reverberation time is one of the indicators used to measure the echoiness in a space. Based on the room finishes, volume of the room, and occupancy calculate the reverberation time in the space. The desired reverberation time depends on the intended use for the space. Compare the predicted reverberation times with the design guidelines. The guidelines provide a goal based on the size of the space and its intended use. If necessary, make recommendations to reduce the echoiness. The reverberation time is controlled by the amount and type of room finishes (treatments to the ceiling, walls, floor and furnishings). Use modeling to determine the ideal locations for treatments.
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Noise Engineers provides information and resources to help people address acoustical issues. In these episodes my goal is to provide resources, inexpensive tools, rules of thumb when dealing with acoustical issues. I would like to explain basic acoustic principles and answer any questions. I will describe actual projects to make this as practical as possible.
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