The acoustics of the new Changi International Airport in Singapore

Abstract

A previous paper has described the general acoustic design of the new international airport in Singapore and some of the noise control measures adopted. This paper reports on some of the subsequent field tests and measurements carried out in the main areas of the airport since the completion of the actual construction works and prior to the opening of the airport to the public. Sound transmission measurements were made following ISO/R140 involving field tests of both the facade as well as the internal partitions. Special sound generating equipment providing up to 110 dB of white noise was used in some of the measurements. This was necessary in view of the high sound insulation values designed in some parts of the building facade. Reverberation time measurements were obtained following the recommendations of ISO/R354 and room absorption values obtained using Sabines' formula. Background noise levels were measured both prior to the opening of the airport to the general public as well as afterwards to study the achievement of the designed values. Comparison of the results of the measurements with the original design values as well as special techniques devised and developed during the tests are discussed and evaluated.