Spending time in loud environments can have a massive impact on health and wellbeing. It may lead to a number of serious problems, from hearing loss to cardiovascular conditions. As a result, there is an ongoing push to develop quieter equipment and silencers. We want to take a look at one of the latest innovations here. Then, if you need an expert to design a discharge silencer or other tools for you, Ventx can help.
A long running project
Back in 2019 the Acoustic Metamaterial Silencer project got underway at Boston University. The goal was to develop new ways to fight noise while also ensuring there was no negative impact on airflow in systems. Crucially, they were looking at Fano resonances and how to scatter soundwaves to reduce noise.
The project had some really interesting successes. Crucially, they developed a sound shield that could reduce narrowband noise from HVAC equipment and propellers. It has the potential to address noise in various properties.
The latest development from the project is a new prototype sound shield that can address a broadband of noise. Project lead Professor Xin Zhang said the original design was “like tuning a radio to block a single station”. As a result, the noise reduction could be effective but only for a specific frequency of sound. The new model is more effective, working “more like noise-cancelling headphones”. Crucially, it means the device can silence a wider selection of noises. In addition, it can account for a variety of pitches.
An interesting detail
As a top discharge silencer designer and an authority on industrial noise control, we know how important it is to reduce noise. The idea to use metamaterials here is fantastic because of the potential to create a structure able to lower noise without reducing airflow.
The cutting edge sound shield features phase-gradient metamaterials. What that means is they adapt the phase of a soundwave. It shifts the waves, increasing interference and gradually decreasing the amplitude. Ultimately, it can make waves cancel each other out so they are far quieter.
The developers think the new sound shield could be viable for a massive array of different settings. Notably, it would offer the opportunity to tailor the design to tackle diverse sound frequencies. As a result, it could provide effective noise reduction in workplaces such as offices and factories. These properties can have unpredictable sound issues.
It will be interesting to see what happens next with the project. It could ultimately lead to a new range of tools to help businesses reduce noise in different workplaces. Therefore, in turn it would mean a big improvement in human health and wellbeing.
Design a bespoke discharge silencer or other equipment
More businesses than ever before are looking at ways to reduce noise. It is important to boost employee wellbeing and performance. At the same time, many industries have stricter regulations now. Ventx can help, using exceptional resources like acoustic modelling software and our own extensive knowledge. We’ll design silencers to suit each specific scenario to deliver the best results.
So, if you need a discharge silencer or any other model, speak to us. We work to maximise value for every client, offering support with installation, maintenance, and more.
