Noise Control.

qxd 5/03/2008 11:53 AM Page 37

RAPID SYSTEM ANALYSIS

90 80
Noise Rating Curves Preferred Noise Criteron Curves
Figure 18. Figure 19.

80 70

70 60
65
70
60
65
60 50
55
60
50

50 55 40
45

50
40

40 45 30
35
Octave band sound pressure level, dB

Octave band sound pressure level, dB

40
30

30 35 20
25

30
20
H
20 25 10
15

20
15
10 0
63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k 63 125 250 500 1k 2k 4k 8k
Octave band centre frequency, Hz Octave band centre frequency, Hz

The Noise Rating (or NR contour) curves were proposed by Some acoustic consultants prefer to use the Preferred Noise
Kosten and Van Os (1962) to rate internal noise levels. Criterion (PNC) curves. These curves were designed by Beranek
To use the curves, plot the noise spectrum onto the NR curves (1971) to achieve a more acceptable noise quality and lower the
grid. The Noise Rating is defined as that curve which touches allowable levels of low and high frequency noises.
the highest point on the sound pressure spectrum. To use the curves, plot the noise spectrum onto the PNC curves
grid. The Preferred Noise Criterion is defined as that curve
which touches the highest point on the sound pressure
spectrum.

Notes
The dB(A) equivalent of the NR values would be approximately 5
dB(A) higher in each instance.
NR and PNC curves are designed to be used with broadband,
constant noise sources (eg. motors, engines), and do not allow
for the increased annoyance associated with tonal, or pulsating
noises.

© FANTECH 2008 NOISE CONTROL PRODUCTS H-37