Modeling structure-borne sound transmission via pipe systems to building structures

Abstract

In residential buildings many people are annoyed by noise caused by their neighbors, including structure-borne sound caused by drinking water, sanitary, and other installations. In different building regulations, limits are set to the maximum allowable sound level caused by installations in a room. However, predictions of the sound level in the design stage are not possible. In this research, a framework for structure-borne sound transmission models for pipe systems, including source characterization, has been developed. Further, the application possibilities of existing calculation methods in the quantification of the sound transmission have been investigated. For example, the application possibilities of the finite-element method (FEM) and statistical energy analysis (SEA) depend on the element type, including dimensions and material (pipe, mounting, or building structure), the wave type, and the frequency area. By combining both methods, calculations for the whole audible frequency area seem possible. Some models are presented, together with calculated values of characteristic parameters. Measurements can be used to complete and validate the models, for example by using a measurement setup based on the plate method. The interaction between calculations and measurements will form the basis for future research. The future research setup is also presented.