Acoustics, Noise & Vibration Surveys, Assessment and Reduction, Projects carried out for our customers in Hampshire and further afield.
NOISE MAPPING IN ENGLAND
Team leader. Coordinated and led the company's bid to gain approved consultant status at DEFRA for major noise mapping contracts, including the selection of the most suitable and cost-effective computer noise modelling software.
NOISE HOTSPOTS
Following the Government's Transport White Paper in 1998, we undertook assessments in accordance with the guidance set out in Annex B of a memorandum 'Noise Problems on Existing Roads Detailed Studies'. This included a number of motorways and trunk road schemes to identify those properties affected by noise and assess options to mitigate noise to more acceptable levels.
A1(M)
Project Manager. Detail design, evaluation and optimisation of roadside noise barriers at Sawtry, Stilton and Alconbury. Assessment of noise appeals under Noise Insulation Regulations (NIR) and approximately 1500 claims under the Land Compensation Act.
ROADNOISE98
Technical demonstrations of in-house noise prediction computer software to private companies, consultants and students on IOA Diploma course.
REDUCED SPEED LIMIT TO REDUCE NOISE
Project Manager. Increased traffic on this trunk road led to complaints of noise from local residents. A reduction in speed from 70 to 50mph was proposed. A comprehensive noise survey was designed to capture the baseline and the new situation and subsequently assess the real benefit in terms of a reduction in noise.
LLANELLI COASTAL LINK ROAD
This was a Noise Insulation Regulations study to identify residential properties that qualified for noise insulation as a result of a new single carriageway link road.
JARMAN'S FIELD
This was a Noise Insulation Regulations study to determine the authority's obligation to provide noise insulation as a result of a new on-line roundabout on an existing dual carriageway. Whilst strict use of the CRTN guidelines would have led to a number of properties to qualify for noise insulation, use of the measured traffic speeds before and after the new scheme meant that none of the properties actually qualified. Thus saving cost for the authority.
TINGEWICK-FINMERE BYPASS
Project Manager. A DMRB Stage 3 noise and vibration assessment was made to determine the effects of this bypass which sandwiches a number of properties between it and the existing road. Designed and estimated the benefits of suitable mitigation measures. Provided technical back-up at the Public Inquiry during Sep/Oct 1995.
A NUMBER OF INTERESTING ENQUIRIES
Provided practical advice and noise predictions for a number of thought-provoking enquiries related to road traffic noise including LA10 vs LA90.
EMERSONS GREEN VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT
Audit of noise calculations prepared by another consultant in the design of a barrier along a major ring road to mitigate the noise impact into a proposed village development comprising housing, community buildings, and commercial centres. The primary aim was to look for ways to save on the costs of the mound/fence configuration. Subsequent optimisation of the noise barrier design using the Road Noise suite of programs saved an estimated £250,000.
WADESMILL BYPASS
Assessment of the noise impact of various alternatives to DoT scheme. Expert witness at the Public Inquiry. Prepared proof of evidence and liaised with and advised the inquiry team on traffic and construction noise.
COURT WOOD TO DOVER
Attended Public Exhibitions as noise expert prior to the start of construction.
WASTE GAS TO ELECTRICITY GENERATION AT LANDFILL SITES
Project Manager. Prediction of likely noise impact due to the expansion of generation at some sites and new plant installation at others and design of mitigation measures. Undertook baseline noise surveys including night-time and plant noise measurements and subsequent computer modelling of proposals.
MULTI-SCREEN CINEMA AND RESTAURANT DEV
Noise impact assessment of construction activities and operation of this new facility proposed to replace a car park close to the centre of town.
TUNNEL VENTILATION FAN NOISE ASSESSMENT
Assessment of noise from the existing fans in the ventilation shafts to specify the noise limit for their replacement. Including the effect of noise ingress into the Millennium Dome, for which a detailed study was recommended.
STONEHAM STADIUM
A baseline noise survey was carried out to establish the existing baseline conditions in the open area alongside the M27 where the stadium is proposed and at the closest residential development. The noise impact was then assessed due to the forecast traffic flows under various ground use scenarios.
RAPID TRANSIT FOR A LARGE CITY
Project Manager. A bus-based RT comprising three route options was put forward in 3 distinct corridors and was proposed to serve the west of Edinburgh. A DMRB Stage 2 assessment was done to determine the noise and vibration impact for each option and finally rate the options in each corridor. Also provided advice on other matters such as guided/non-guided systems and the type of carriageway.
WASTE WATER TRANSFER TUNNEL
Project Manager. Carried out noise and vibration measurements of the baseline conditions in the locality of each of the two sites of the vertical shafts. Procedures are in place to measure at short notice the impact of the construction activities over the term of the contract of over two years.
MATERIAL RECYCLING FACILITY
Project Manager. This new facility was proposed on the edge of an existing operational landfill site. In addition, close to this site, there were two railway lines, sand gravel pit and other industrial works. Noise from activities related to this proposed facility was assessed in accordance with BS 4142:1990. A baseline noise survey was carried out initially and then the noise of delivery vehicles along the access road, during manoeuvring, and of reverse warning alarms was assessed and where problems were identified mitigation measures were evaluated, recommended and cost estimated.
FAWLEY OIL REFINERY NOISE NUISANCE
A particularly annoying noise allegedly causing disturbance to the local community was investigated and found to be caused by a TCV stack. Team Leader. Provided technical services to the Refinery Engineers. Measured the dynamic pressure inside the stack and with sound level measurements at the stack exit estimated the acoustic performance of the silencer. This was found to be underperforming. Undertook long term noise measurements in the community to establish some correlation with variation in the plant operations. Some abrupt changes were noticed with various operations.
DEEPSEA DIVING SUPPORT SHIP
Principal. Survey of noise levels in living quarters and main working areas after a major refit of this support ship during sea trails that lasted a week. Surveys were repeated for various operations of the ship.
FLOATING OIL RIG
Measurement of noise and vibration levels in each of the working areas during sea trials lasting 10 days. These were assessed in accordance with the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate requirements and ISO 2631. Where these exceeded the specified targets appropriate mitigation measures were recommended. Mud pumps, which were directly mounted, were identified as the cause of excessive vibration and re-radiated noise in one area. In addition, troubleshooting to establish the cause of weld failures to field winding support of the engine-generators. Five trips in all to Belfast.
NOISE NUISANCE
Installation of new chiller plant on the roof of a building caused nearby residential properties to complain and lead to Statutory Nuisance. After a thorough noise survey, mitigation measures were put forward. These were installed by a contractor under our detailed supervision.
NOISE FROM AGGREGATE WORKS
Project Manager. Assessment of noise from plant, equipment and from various processes on a large aggregate works site and its impact on proposed new prestigious 6/8 storey residential development at Greenwich. The assessment was in accordance with the guidance in PPG24, BS4142 and BS8233 standards and subsequently liaised with the local planning department and recommended mitigation measures.
BULK GASES PLANT
Project Manager. A lead consultant had specified a noise limit of 45 dB(A) at a distance of 15m from plant site boundary. After a quick analysis to illustrate the gravity of the situation, designed the appropriate noise attenuation into the major noisy plant. The design took into account the effect on the performance, alternative plant and cost.
132KV SUB-STATION
A housing estate was proposed near a large 132kv transformer/substation. The usual buzz/humming noise from such an installation was significant and likely to be intrusive. A night-time noise survey was conducted to identify the scale of this intrusive hum prior to calculations to determine the benefit of various suitable mitigation measures so as to minimise the risk of complaints from future nearby residents.
WATER TREATMENT WORKS
Project Manager. A "breach of condition notice" was served by the Local Planning Authority because the noise level at the site boundary of the new WTW plant exceeded the specified limit of NR40. A night-time noise survey was carried out to identify the main sources of noise and their characteristics. A number of practical mitigation measures were recommended with approximate costs to meet the noise criteria.
FLOATING OIL RIG
Project Manager. Vibration troubleshooting to find the cause of weld failures to field winding support of the engine-generators.
PAPERBOARD MILL
Project Manager. Vibration nuisance was alleged by residents in a house close to a large paper board mill. The aim of the measurements was to identify the cause of this vibration. A large de-barking drum facility was found as the main cause. However, the measured values were significantly below the guidelines given in BS 6487 and therefore considered less likely to cause a disturbance.
IMPACT PILING
Measured ground-borne vibration arising from impact piling of 200mm concrete columns. The results were used to predict the likely value at a given distance using the method and the relationships detailed in my paper to the IOA. The prediction was used in defence of a dispute regarding leaks arising from piling close to a building.
A12 HACKNEY - M11 LINK ROAD
Monitoring and assessment of vibration levels following a complaint. This vibration was not due to bored piling but a hydraulic vibrator used to assist with the insertion and extraction of the pile casings. My role was to oversee the contractor's vibration specialist's measurements and take independent vibration measurements at the same time. The impact of vibration on nearby LUL track and a newly built office building was assessed.
WEST COAST MAINLINE RAILWAY TUNNELS
Principal. The WCML railway underwent a major upgrading during 2003 including the first installation in the UK of solid track at two tunnels. Very detailed and thorough noise and groundborne vibration measurement surveys were designed and undertaken before and after the works to investigate whether the new track actually reduced the noise and vibration levels or not. During the construction works, ambient noise levels were regularly monitored at daytime, night-time and at weekends to minimise disruption to local residents.
RAILWAY EMBANKMENT STABILISATION
Principal. Monitoring of Groundborne vibration near sensitive buildings due to sheet piling at the foot of the embankment, including prediction of a safe distance for such working adjacent to a fibre optic cable which provided an IT connection for a large office block occupied by BT and Railtrack. Recommended mitigation measures with close surveillance to allow a continuous wall of sheet piling across the optic cable.
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AT LONDON BRIDGE
Project Manager. Measurement of baseline noise and vibration at selected locations, e.g. Southwark County Court building, close to sheet piling for an underground service tunnel. Prediction and assessment of the impact of expected groundborne vibration from proposed piling rig using a vibrator. Monitoring vibration levels at selected locations during extraction of sheet piles using a vibrator.
RAILWAY STATION
Project Manager. Measurement of baseline noise levels over a period of a week within the concourse areas of Lime Street Station, Liverpool. The results were to be used to assess the impact due to piling in relation to the replacement of concrete buffers. This was followed by monitoring noise levels during piling operations.
REFURBISHMENT OF PLATFORM AT A STATION
Project Manager. Designed and managed an N&V survey to obtain baseline levels prior to extensive piling to reinforce and refurbish a platform.
REMOVAL OF A CONCRETE SLAB, BANK STATION
Project Manager. This slab was adjacent to The Mansion House and vibration from JCB mounted pneumatic breakers was a real concern because of possible damage to this historic building and the accidental onset of alarms that secure the valuable works of art through excessive vibration. Carried out monitoring of the vibration levels inside Mansion House and the machine room at the station continuously through the most intensive period of the demolition.
A12 HACKNEY TO M11 LINK ROAD
Construction of a ramp to carry the link road involved installing numerous stone and concrete columns to improve the structural load bearing of the soft ground on site. These columns are constructed using vibro-compaction techniques. Adjacent to these works is a printing press and they had expressed concern that vibration would cause malfunction of the press/screen printers or compromise the print quality. The contractor's method statement was assessed for the vibration levels that those plant could cause and I carried out measurements of the vibration levels during the most intensive activity.
ROTHERHITHE FOOTBRIDGE
Project Manager. Liaised with the client and the contractor in assessing the resulting noise impact on the neighbourhood and getting the method statement approved. Carried out continuous noise monitoring throughout the works contract and monitoring of vibration levels during the piling activities.
VIBRATION DUE TO PILING OVER A TUNNEL
Construction of the new replacement river wall involved piling over the line of the tunnel bores. On-site vibration measurements at various distances were carried out for different types of piling plant. From these, a range of vibration levels were predicted inside the tunnel. Vibration testing of the major structural components within the tunnel was carried out during a routine tunnel closure to evaluate the risk of potential damage to these components during piling overhead. The response was monitored during the piling operations.
VARIOUS RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS
Undertaken numerous noise surveys and impact assessments for high-density residential developments near busy roads or adjacent to railways.
LONGSANDS LANE
Project Manager. Design and optimisation of noise mitigation for a proposed new residential development situated close to a busy motorway. The site is difficult in that the land is a grandstand to the road and adjacent to a deep river valley. The housing itself was incorporated as a noise barrier.
MILL HILL
Project Manager. A small housing development is proposed on a site which is exposed to noise and vibration from mainline trains. A survey revealed that the site was in PPG24 NEC C. Subsequently, adequate noise mitigation and a housing layout together with a site specific foundation was designed to mitigate ground-borne vibration to acceptable levels.
PAXCROFT MEAD
Assessment of road traffic noise from a new link and advising the client as regards the layout and orientation of proposed houses to meet the local authority requirements.
SUPERMARKET STORE
Preparation of PoE regarding noise to assist an appeal against the rejection of a planning application for a larger store on the same site. Undertook a survey of existing noise levels in the area, assessment of noise from refrigeration plant, lorry loading/unloading and car park activities including the proposal of mitigation measures. The appeal was in favour.
RICHARD BLACKBURN HOUSE
Project Manager. Airborne and impact sound insulation tests to ISO 414 and 170 on a sample of rooms following complaints from residents of audio transparency.
CHURCH HALL
Hall users noted that it was difficult to understand lectures and talks. Acoustic measurements were carried out and it was found that the reverberation time was too excessive. Recommended cost-effective treatment to the limited amount of available surface area to reduce the RT.
WORLD CARGO FREIGHT CENTRE BUILDING
A new cargo handling facility was designed together with a staff building centre and both were located close to the southern runway. A critical noise study was conducted into the acoustic requirements of the roof, wall, glazing and floor building elements to ensure the appropriate noise ratings specified for the staff occupied areas would be met. Recommended appropriate detail modifications where acoustically weak areas were identified.
PLANT ROOM
Audited calculations prepared by another consultant to predict noise levels within an office space having windows overlooking outlet baffles from a plant room housing 6 condenser units. Liaised with plant suppliers, building architects, M&E and a firm of acoustics consultants as regards specification, evaluation and mitigation of high levels of noise.
CARBON FIBRE PROPSHAFTS
Computer modelling of vehicle driveline system in order to design lightweight prop-shaft to avoid critical whirling frequencies. Vehicles tested include Porsche, Audi Quattro, and RR Silver Spur together with many industrial applications.
NOISE REDUCTION OF VACUUM CLEANER
Ph.D. Detailed theoretical and experimental work resulting in substantial lowering in noise of 10 dB at a production cost of £1.20.