Air flow in ducts generates noise.

The noise is determined by

 air velocity
 duct size (cross sectional area)
Generated noise can be calculated with the empirical equation

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

where

LN = sound power level (dB)

v = air velocity (m/s)

A = air duct cross sectional area (m2)

The equation modified for imperial units

LN = 10 + 50 log (vi / 197) + 10 log (Ai / 1550)                                                     

(1b)

where

vi = air velocity (ft/min)

Ai = cross sectional area (in2)

Fan Sound Level calculation

Sound Power Level - SI-units

LN = 67 + 10 log(S) + 10 log(p)                              (1a)
LN = 40 + 10 log(Q)+ 20 log(p)                              (1b)
LN = 94 + 20 log(S) - 10 log(Q)                              (1c)

where

LN = sound power level from fan (dB)

S = rated motor power  (kW)

p = fan static pressure  (Pa, N/m2)

Q = volume discharged (m3/s)