- ZOL
MCH at ASA Seattle 2021
After an “unprecedented” two year hiatus of in-person professional society meetings, “We’re back” !
Three MCHers will present several papers at the ASA gathering in Seattle, November 28 - December 3, 2021.
Our topics will include various noise control solutions for HVAC systems, related noise challenges “of a curious sort”, a tutorial lecture, an AIA/ASA CEU certification course, and a presentation on the International Year of Sound. As an added bonus, Wednesday night will be the ASA JAM, largely coordinated by Tony Hoover. All are welcome to bring their instruments and play along!
See paper abstracts below.
Sound isolation from a consultant's perspective (1aAA1)
By Tony Hoover
Sound isolation addresses transmission between adjacent spaces as well as non-adjacent spaces, related horizontally and vertically, interior/interior and interior/exterior, through flanking paths and weak links and crosstalk, via both airborne and structureborne “paths”. Isolation can be characterized using single-number descriptors such as Sound Transmission Class (STC) and Impact Insulation Class (IIC), but there are important limitations and caveats. Isolation and methods for improvement are all too often misunderstood and misused, especially with an ocean of misinformation and confusion to navigate on the web and elsewhere.
This presentation is intended to offer practical, helpful guidance from a consultant’s perspective, with focus on fundamentals and simplicity, toward better overall understanding and effective interactions with colleagues and clients.
Improving fan inlet conditions to reduce noise. (2aNSb4)
By Tony Hoover and Zachery L'Italien
This presentation will review various examples of fan inlet conditions that caused excessive noise in different frequency ranges, and system modifications for noise reduction that involved a few intermediate steps to maximize effectiveness and sometimes to reduce initial client resistance. Examples will include several large air handlers, a healthcare facility exhaust fan, and some informal experiments.
Challenges and Conundrums (2pNS5)
By David Conant and Tony Hoover
Various noise and vibration control experiences will be described, with data presented where available. Project types range from performing arts to offices, large to small, near and far. Some solutions were surprisingly straightforward, others were simply surprising, and others seemed fairly inventive. Some resisted predictive approaches or were hampered by questionable “data”. Several noise issues turned out to be unrelated to the MEP system, and for one or two conundrums we will welcome your insights. Often, such experiences can often offer useful approaches where conventional wisdom fails, and these war stories are the most fun to share.
Architectural acoustics short course presentation material (3pAA1)
By Tony Hoover
The Technical Committee on Architectural Acoustics (TCAA) is a Registered Provider in the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Continuing Education System (CES). The TCAA has developed a standardized introductory short course for architects called “Architectural Acoustics”. An architect can earn one continuing education unit (CEU) by attending this short course, if presented by a qualified member of TCAA. The course covers topics in sound isolation, mechanical system noise control, finish treatments, and implementation of quality acoustical spaces.
This paper will cover the course material to prepare and qualify potential presenters. In order to qualify as an authorized presenter for this AIA/CES short course, attendance at this special session and membership in TCAA are required.
Strengthening the link between the ASA and the Spanish-speaking community. (5aAA6)
By Zachery L'Italien and Ana Jaramillo
This presentation will discuss the efforts of the Spanish Speaking Acousticians in the Americas Regional Chapter over the past two years of the International Year of Sound to foster stronger connections between the ASA and the Hispanic community. An overview of presentations, events, collaborations, and other activities will be shared, as well as commentary on current challenges for acousticians in Latin America, recent progress, and how the ASA and the SSA can serve as an invaluable resource for the region.
Links of Interest:
Acoustical Society of America website
Spanish Speaking Acousticians in the Americas
