When air flows through ducts noise are generated.

The noise can be calculated with the

empirical equation below:

Lw = 10 + 50 log( v ) + 10 log( A ) (1)

where

Lw = sound power level (dB)

v = air velocity (m/s)

A = duct cross sectional area (m2)

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Example - Noise generated in Ducts

The noise generated in a 200 mm circular duct with airflow 10 m/s can be calculated as

Lw = 10 + 50 log( 10 m/s ) + 10 log( π ((0.2 m) / 2)2 )

= 45 db

The noise generated in a 200 mm circular duct with airflow 20 m/s can be calculated as

Lw = 10 + 50 log( 20 m/s ) + 10 log( π ((0.2 m) / 2)2 )

= 60 db

Note! - the noise is generated inside the duct. Compared to the noise from the fans - the noise
generated by the duct can in general be neglected.