FEDERAL RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION
PROGRAMS IN MACHINERY AND CONSTRUCTION NOISE
Prepared by the
Federal Interagency Machinery and
Construction Noise Research Panel
February 1978
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Washington, D.C. 20460
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PREFACE
One of the purposes of the Noise Control Act of 1972
was to establish a means for effective coordination of
Federal research, development, and demonstration (RD&D)
activities in noise control. As part of this coordination
role, the Act directs the Administrator of EPA to compile
and publish a report on the status and progress of Federal
noise research and noise control programs and to assess the
contributions of these programs to the Federal government's
overall efforts to control noise.
In partial fulfillment of its responsibility, EPA
established four interagency ad hoc research panels in early
1974 in the areas of aviation, surface transportation,
machinery and construction equipment, and noise effects.
Reports were issued by the panels during March-June 1975.
The reports summarized the ongoing or planned noise re-
search, development, and demonstration programs within the
various agencies of the Federal government through FY 75.
During 1976, the four panels were reestablished for the
purpose of updating and extending the program and fiscal
data base through FY 78. The primary objectives of the
panels were broadened to include assessment of the RD&D
programs in light of each agency's mandates, goals, and
objectives as well as the overall goals of the Federal
government to control noise.
The current Federal Interagency Machinery and Con-
struction Noise Research Panel included representatives
from the Department of Interior (DOI); Department of Health,
Education, and Welfare (HEW); Department of Defense (DOD);
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); Department of Trans-
portation (DOT); and Department of Commerce, National Bureau
of Standards (DOC/NBS). The panel was chaired by Mr. Joseph
A. Lamonica of the Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration
(MESA), a component agency within DOI. DOI was selected for
the chairmanship since it was the lead department within the
Federal government involved in machinery and construction
noise RD&D. EPA served as secretariat to the panel.
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This report has been prepared by the members of the
Federal Interagency Machinery and Construction Noise Re-
search Panel. The information, assessments, conclusions,
and recommendations are the consensus of the panel members
and are not necessarily the official views of each of the
Federal agencies.
PREFACE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. First Report on Status and Progress of Noise Research and Control
Programs in the Federal Government, Volumes I and II, U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, June 1975, NTIS No. PB-243447/AS
(Vol. 1), PG-243448/AS (Vol. 2).
2. Federal Surface Vehicle Noise Research, Development and Demon-
stration Programs: FY 73-FY 75, U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, March 1975, NTIS No. PB-234992/AS.
3. Federal Aircraft Noise Research, Development and Demonstration
Programs: FY 73-FY 75, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
March 1975, NTIS No. PB-244904/LK.
4. Federal Machinery Noise Research, Development and Demonstration
Programs: FY 73-FY 75, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
May 1975, NTIS No. PB-243523/LK.
5. Federal Itoise Effects Research: FY 73-FY 75, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, March 1975, NTIS No. PB-241751/LK.
6. An Assessment of the Federal Noise Research, Development and
Demonstration Activities: FY 73-FY 75, U.S. Environmental Pro-
tection Agency, June 1975, NTIS No. PB-246894/LK.
IV
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FEDERAL INTERAGENCY
MACHINERY AND CONSTRUCTION NOISE
RESEARCH PANEL MEMBERSHIP
Chairman: Joseph A. Lamonica
Chief, Division of Health, Coal Mine Health and Safety
Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration,
Department of the Interior*
Jerome K. Brasch
Kenneth E. Feith
William A. Leasure, Jr.
William N. McKinnery, Jr.
David S. Pallett
Paul D. Schomer
Milford L. Skow
Secretariat:
DOI/MESA*
EPA/ONAC
DOT/ONA
HEW/NIOSH
DOC/NBS
DOD/USA-CERL
DOI/BOM
EPA/ONAC
Harvey J. Nozick
Roger W. Heymann
Thomas L. Quindry
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Support was provided by Mr. G. L. McLennan and Ms
A. L. Keiley of Booz, Allen Applied Research.
* MESA was transferred from DOI to the Department of Labor (DOL),
effective March 9, 1978.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preface
Panel
1.0
2.0
3.0
Membership
INTRODUCTION
1 . 1 BACKGROUND
1.2 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
SUMMARY
ASSESSMENT
3 . 1 INTRODUCTION
3.1.1 Scope of the Noise Problem
3.1.2 Technological Change and
the Purpose of RD&D
3.2 AGENCY ASSESSMENTS
3.2.1 Department of the Interior
3.2.2 Environmental Protection
Agency
3.2.3 Department of Health,
Education and Welfare
3.2.4 Department of Defense
3.2.5 Department of Commerce
3.2.6 Department of Transportation
3.3 OVERALL ASSESSMENT
3.3.1 Interagency Cooperation
3.3.2 Adequacy of Funding
3.3.3 Research Needs
Page
Number
iii
V
1-1
1-1
1-2
2-1
3-1
3-1
3-2
3-4
3-5
3-5
3-9
3-12
3-14
3-17
3-21
3-23
3-24
3-25
3-25
3.4 ASSESSMENT REFERENCES 3-27
Vll
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Page
Number
4.0 AGENCY PROGRAMS 4-1
4.1 DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 4-3
4.1.1 Bureau of Mines 4-3
4.1.2 Mining Enforcement and
Safety Administration 4-5
4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 4-7
4.2.1 Technology Assessment
Programs 4-8
4.2.2 Research Programs 4-8
4.3 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION AND
WELFARE 4-11
4.4 DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE 4-13
4.4.1 Department of the Army 4-13
4.4.2 Department of the Navy 4-14
4.5 DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 4-17
4.6 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 4-21
4.6.1 Office of Noise Abatement 4-21
4.6.2 Federal Highway Administration 4-22
4.7 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 4-27
4.7.1 Agricultural Research Service 4-27
4.7.2 U.S. Forest Service 4-27
4.8 AGENCY BIBLIOGRAPHIES 4-29
APPENDICES
A. SUMMARY OF MACHINERY AND CONSTRUCTION NOISE
RD&D FUNDING BY AGENCY AND INDEX TO NOISE
PROJECTS A~1
Vlll
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Page
Number
B. DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR RD&D PROGRAMS B-l
C. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY RD&D
PROGRAMS C-l
D. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION AND
WELFARE RD&D PROGRAMS D-l
E. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE RD&D PROGRAMS E-l
F. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE RD&D PROGRAMS F-l
G. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION RD&D
PROGRAMS G-l
H. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE RD&D PROGRAMS H-l
I. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
NOISE REGULATORY PROGRAMS 1-1
IX
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INDEX OF FIGURES
Page
Number
2-1 Total Federal Fiscal Year Funding for
Machinery and Construction Noise RD&D 2-3
2-2 Fiscal Year Funding by Federal Agency or
Department for Machinery and Construction
Noise RD&D 2-4
XI
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
The United States Government is involved in research,
development and demonstration (RD&D) activities related to
machinery and construction noise abatement and control
through a number of its agencies and departments. These
agency programs have varying goals and objectives according
to their individual agency charters, statutory authorities
and other priorities.
Section 4 of the Noise Control Act of 1972 (PL 92-574,
October 1972) states that the Congress:
"...authorizes and directs that Federal agencies shall,
to the fullest extent consistent with their authority
under Federal laws administered by them, carry out
the programs within their control in such a manner
as to further the policy ... to promote an environ-
ment for all Americans free from noise that jeopardizes
their health or welfare..."
Section 4 further requires the Administrator of EPA to:
"... coordinate the programs of all Federal agencies
relating to noise research and noise control..." and
"On the basis of regular consultation with appropriate
Federal agencies ... shall compile and publish,
from time to time, a report on the status and progress
of Federal activities relating to noise research and
noise control. This report shall describe the noise
control programs of each Federal agency and assess
the contributions of those programs to the Federal
Government's overall efforts to control noise."
1.1 BACKGROUND
In partial fulfillment of its responsibility for coor-
dinating Federal noise research, the Environmental Protection
Agency has reconvened the Federal Interagency Machinery and
Construction Noise Research Panel. After its original est-
ablishment in 1974, that panel produced the first report
summarizing ongoing and planned Machinery and Construction
noise research, development and demonstration programs
within the various agencies and departments of the Federal
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government through FY 75. In addition to brief descriptions
and fiscal data for the agencies' programs, references of
reports and publications resulting from the Federal RD&D
activities were also included. The data through FY 73 were
firm. FY 74 resource allocations were best estimates in
many cases and FY 75 funds were estimates with incomplete
project descriptions. This report is a continuation of
the first report. FY 75 programs are reexamined. FY 74
funding is identified only for those projects underway in
FY 74 and continuing into the time frame of this report
(FY 75 to FY 78).
1.2 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
When the reestablished panel met to charter its course
of action as a consultative body, they significantly broad-
ened the panel's objectives to include—in addition to
an update of the status and progress of ongoing Federal
machinery and construction noise research activities—(1)
identification of each agency's statutory mandates, goals,
and objectives; (2) assessment of each agency's noise pro-
gram in light of these mandates; (3) assessment of the con-
tributions of each agency's noise program to the Federal
government's overall effort to control noise; and (4) recom-
mendation of future Federal government research programs in
the area of machinery and construction noise abatement and
control.
By involving many agencies and departments in the prep-
aration of this report, a means is provided to increase the
dialogue among officials concerning the relationships of
Federal noise research programs. In this way this report
contributes to the coordination of Federal research activ-
ities.
This panel report is a digest and analysis of informa-
tion provided by the Federal agencies involved in machinery
and construction noise RD&D. Individual program descriptions
and funding levels have been included to identify the Federal
activities. The panel has concluded that the programs should
principally be judged in terms of benefits to the public
and the advancement of the state-of-the-art in noise abate-
ment technology. Tables detailing current and planned pro-
ject descriptions and fundings, by area of research and by
agency and department, are identified in the Appendices.
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The research programs undertaken by each agency during
the FY 75-78 period are at the end of this report in appen-
dices B through H. Appendix A contains a summary of funds
expended by the agencies and an Index of Machinery and
Construction Noise Projects.
This report is directed toward noise research, develop-
ment and demonstration programs; however, a significant por-
tion of the EPA effort is for regulatory noise control pro-
grams. Appendix I provides brief descriptions of EPA regu-
latory programs.
1-3
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2.0 SUMMARY
This report is a compilation of the research, develop-
ment, and demonstration (RD&D) activities of Federal agencies
and departments from FY 75 through FY 78 in the area of
machinery and construction equipment noise. This report
also contains assessments of these activities as well as
recommendations for future areas of work.
Federal agencies and departments with machinery and
construction noise RD&D programs during this time period
are as follows:
Department of Interior (DOI)
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Department of Defense (DOD)
Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW)
Department of Commerce (DOC)
Department of Transportation (DOT)
Department of Agriculture (USDA)*.
The various RD&D activities undertaken by these agencies
and departments are implemented under their various mandates
as well as in accordance with the intent of the Congress as
expressed in Section 2(b) of the Noise Control Act of 1972:
"... it is the policy of the United States to promote an
environment for all Americans free from noise that jeopar-
dizes their health or welfare ... "
Machinery and construction noise RD&D activities
undertaken are grouped into six categories to facilit-
ate review, discussion, and comments. These categories
are:
Construction and mining
Manufacturing
Engine technology and machine parts
Consumer products
Agricultural machinery
Acoustic properties.
Construction and mining noise abatement activities
include programs in quieting earth-movers and similar types
of construction vehicles, military sites and equipment, com-
pressors, generators, breakers and drills, mining equipment
USDA was not represented by panel membership but USDA programs
in machinery and construction noise RD&D are reported.
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and facilities, and general construction sites and equip-
ment.
The manufacturing category encompasses for the most
part all industrial machinery. Manufacturing subcategories
include textile, woodworking, metal working, other industrial
equipment not specifically cited here, and military ship-
board equipment.
The engine technology and machine parts category is
composed of major machinery and construction equipment, sub-
components. Included are studies involving such areas as
combustion noise, diesel engines, and specialty truck items
such as truck mounted solid waste compactors and refrigera-
tion units.
Consumer products deal with appliances, tools, equip-
ment, and toys common to the household (e.g., blenders,
dishwashers, garbage disposal units, and vacuum cleaners).
Agricultural machinery noise reduction studies include
all equipment related to agriculture. The only specific
agricultural machinery for which noise reduction work was
performed was the cotton gin.
Activities in acoustic properties consist of studies
on basic sound field behavior. Studies involve such areas
as: noise measurement methodology, sound propagation, and
sound field characteristics. Also included are all activities
relating to building acoustics.
The extent of Federal activity on machinery and construc-
tion noise RD&D as indicated by the levels of funding is
shown in Figures 2-1 and 2-2. Figure 2-1 shows the total
combined levels of funding of all Federal agencies and
departments from FY 75 through FY 78. Figure 2-2 shows
the level of funding for each individual Federal agency and
department during this time period.
The most active participants in terms of funding and
number of projects in machinery and construction RD&D are
DOI and DOD. Due to research activities at the Bureau of
Mines, DOI is the most active participant on the basis of
the information supplied in this report. Within DOD, the
Department of Navy has a large number of classified RD&D
machinery noise programs. The lead of DOI and DOD in terms
of funding is followed to a lesser degree by the othejr
participating Federal organizations.
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3.446
1975
1976 1977
FISCAL YEAR
1978
NOTE: 1. FY 76 FUNDING SPANNED 15 MONTHS DUE TO THE ADDITION OF
THE TRANSITION QUARTER.
2. FY 78 FUNDING TOTALS INCLUDE FUNDS NOT IDENTIFIED FOR
SPECIFIC PROJECTS IN THE APPENDICES BECAUSE OF CONTRACT
PROCUREMENT PROCEDURES.
3. FUNDING TOTALS DO NOT INCLUDE EPA REGULATORY PROGRAM
FUNDS, AND TO AVOID DOUBLE COUNTING DO NOT INCLUDE DOC
FUNDS SUPPLIED BY OTHER FEDERAL AGENCIES.
FIGURE 2-1
TOTAL FEDERAL FISCAL YEAR FUNDING
FOR MACHINERY AND CONSTRUCTION NOISE RD&D
2-3
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DOI's noise RD&D program is conducted by the Bureau of
Mines (BOM) and the Mining Enforcement and Safety Adminis-
tration (MESA). The major RD&D effort is conducted by BOM.
MESA1s principal effort is enforcement and inspection per-
taining to safety and health regulations. MESA does how-
ever provide technical support to its enforcement staff and
conducts RD&D activities to define noise problems or develop
noise control techniques using existing technology. DOI's
noise RD&D activities are conducted to reduce hazardous
noise associated with hearing loss in underground and surface
coal and mineral mining operations. Noise control projects
involve the development of noise control techniques using
both new and existing technology and incorporation of new
designs or modifications into existing equipment. DOI's
noise RD&D effort in construction and mining equipment is
clearly larger than that of any other Federal organization.
In the past EPA1s principal technology efforts in the
machinery and construction arena have involved technology
assessment in support of the regulatory process. There
has been a recent increase in the level of EPA noise RD&D
activity with the undertaking of a source control program
to reduce internal combustion engine noise and a noise
control demonstration project involving both construction
and industrial activities.
DOD's machinery and construction noise RD&D activities
are conducted by the Army and the Navy. DOD's activities
in this area principally support their tactical mission
requirements but also support their domestic environmental
needs. The tactical mission efforts are undertaken to pro-
tect the hearing of personnel, to maintain effective communi-
cation, and to avoid detection in combat. Environmental
programs are undertaken to reduce the noise impact of DOD
activities on military and civilian communities. Army RD&D
activities are directed to developing facility-wide noise
impact prediction methodologies and noise reduction tech-
niques and strategies. The Army's RD&D efforts are also
directed toward reducing noise associated with construction
equipment and construction sites and to a lesser degree
electrical generators. The Navy's RD&D efforts, though
classified for most areas of activity, focus principally
on surface ship and submarine noise problems. Some newly
initiated demonstration effort is directed toward shipyard
noise.
The Department of Commerce (DOC), through the National
Bureau of Standards (NBS), undertakes RD&D noise activities
through in-house funding as well as funding from other
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Federal organizations. In-house funding has been directed
toward relevant activities in support of noise emission
measurements rather than toward specific machinery and
construction noise RD&D programs. These research activities
are aimed at improving noise measurement procedures. NBS
has received funds from EPA for supportive services in the
development of machinery, construction and consumer product
noise regulations.
The Department of Transportation has undertaken RD&D
noise programs involving construction equipment utilized
in building transportation systems. These programs were
principally sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration
and were initiated to provide guidance for construction
noise measurement, prediction and abatement to highway
officials who have to meet the requirements of the Federal
Highway Planning Manual (FHPM). Approximately one-half of
the DOT funding was appropriated under the Highway Planning
and Research (HP&R) program. These programs, for the most
part, dealt with one or more of the following factors:
noise levels, noise sources, noise mitigation, and prediction
methodologies.
The Department of Health, Education and Welfare, through
the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH), conducts RD&D noise activities in support of other
Federal organizations. Specifically NIOSH has the responsi-
bility to provide the Occupational Safety and Health Adminis-
tration with information on which to develop and promulgate
standards. In addition, NIOSH research is aimed at develop-
ing control technology which will guarantee each worker a
safe and healthful workplace. The research has led to the
development of several general noise control publications
and specific reports dealing with punch press and woodwork-
ing noise control.
Within the Department of Agriculture (USDA), the
Agricultural Research Service and the Forest Service engage
in machinery and construction noise RD&D efforts. The Agri-
cultural Research Service, concerned with the hearing hazards
associated with agricultural machinery, undertakes agricul-
tural equipment noise reduction research. There are two
laboratories within the Forest Service undertaking acoustics
research. The Equipment Development Center, in an effort to
reduce hearing hazards associated with specialized equipment
such as fire fighting, has a small equipment noise reduction
program. The Forest Products Laboratory undertakes research
in building acoustics.
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Many interagency efforts were undertaken during the
FY 75 through FY 78 time period. DOC/NBS, for example,
provided technical assistance and/or measurement data to
EPA for truck mounted solid waste compactors, paving breakers
and rock drills, dozers and loaders, truck refrigeration
units and household appliances. NBS also provided measure-
ment data and technical support to EPA (prior to FY 75) for
the EPA noise emission regulations for portable compressors
promulgated in 1976. Within DOD, the departments of the
Army and Navy cooperated with EPA. The Army provided test
data and methodology studies for dozers and loaders, and
paving breakers and rock drills. The Army also performed
non-highway construction site noise studies. The Navy is
undertaking a joint demonstration program with EPA to study
noise control in shipyards. DOT and EPA will jointly fund
a highway construction noise demonstration study in FY 78.
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3.0 ASSESSMENT
3.1 INTRODUCTION
Prior to the passage of the Noise Control Act of 1972,
Federal agency and department noise programs had to be under-
taken for the principal purpose of meeting their mandates,
operational authorities, and goals. The Noise Control Act
expanded the agency and department responsibilities with
respect to noise by directing them to go beyond their
immediate charges and contribute to the total national
effort of improving the environment.
Congress was cognizant of these responsibilities and
authorities of the agency mandates as evidenced by the
explicit wording in Section 4 (a) of the Act.
"...The Congress authorizes and directs that Federal
agencies shall, to the fullest extent consistent with
their authority under Federal laws administered by
them, carry out the programs within their control in
such a manner as to further the policy ... to promote
an environment for all Americans free from noise that
jeopardizes their health or welfare..."
In this regard, any assessment of Federal programs
must be carried out on two levels, namely,
Assessment of RD&D programs in light of each
agency's mandates and goals
Assessment of the contributions of each agency's
noise programs to the Federal Government's over-
all effort to control noise.
In general, the Federal agencies have utilized their RD&D
funds to carry out those programs necessary to meet the
mandates of their individual agencies. The programs in the
past have resulted in significant advances in the develop-
ment and demonstration of noise control technology applicable
to machinery and construction noise.
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3.1.1 Scope of the Noise Problem
There are principally two types of noise problems
associated with machinery and construction activities.
These are occupational noise, which is usually related to
safety and hearing loss, and environmental noise, which
involves community impacts resulting from noise intrusions.
These problems are to varying degrees associated with most
machinery and construction areas of activity.
According to a survey of 15 industrial insurance com-
panies, hearing loss is the largest single compensable
health problem today; greater, for instance, than black
lung disease and exposure to vinyl chloride. EPA estimates
that some 14.7 million American workers^* have occupational
noise exposures above the hazardous level2 (Leq(8)t2. 75
decibels). These workers are spread throughout many indus-
tries.
In the mining industry, for example, 450,000 workers
are directly involved in underground, surface mining, and
associated preparation plant operations for coal, metal,
and non-metal mines.3 Approximately 25 percent of these
workers have noise exposures considered hazardous to hearing
and virtually all are regularly exposed to noise levels
above 90 dB"f"f" . The number of workers in the mining industry
will increase 28 percent by 1983 according to projections;
mostly due to the increased emphasis on coal as an energy
source. Safety and environmental problems associated with
noise are also matters of concern. Mining is by nature a
relatively hazardous operation. High noise adds to the
safety problems by interfering with speech communication,
with the detection of sounds that can alert a miner to an
impending danger, or with the recognition of alarms.
In the fabricated metal products industry, virtually
all of the 440,000 machine operators are exposed to sound
levels above 85 dB; and 87 percent are exposed to levels
* A list of numbered references may be found at the end of this
chapter.
t L , equivalent sound level, is the average A-weighted energy
level of sound over a given period of time. The period of time
is shown in parentheses, in this case, 8 hours.
tt A-weighted sound levels are used throughout this report.
3-2
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above 90 dB. This does not include the additional 440,000
production workers such as machine setup men, materials
handlers, inspectors and foremen whose occupations in this
industry lead to intermittent exposures. Overall, approxi-
mately 8.8 million,5 or 68 percent, of all production workers
for all industries have noise exposures considered hazardous
to hearing.
In addition, over 4.5 million operators of farm trac-
tors are exposed to noise levels above those considered
safe.5 It is not known how many of the 4 million plus con-
struction workers have exposures to noise which are hazardous
to hearing but the numbers are believed to be significant.
Construction machinery noise levels, at the operator position,
can be in the 90 to 100 dB range.
EPA estimates that close to half of the nation's popu-
lation, 103 million Americans,^ experience environmental or
community noise from innumerable sources, including machinery
and construction equipment. This noise interferes with nor-
mal daily activities such as speech communication, sleep,
relaxation, and privacy. Construction site noise alone in-
terferes with the activities of some 30 million people.6
Not all agencies are concerned with both occupational
and environmental problems. The Department of Interior, for
example, through the Bureau of Mines (BOM) and the Mining
Enforcement and Safety Administration (MESA); and the
Department of Health, Education and Welfare, through the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH),
have for the most part been concerned with occupational
noise exposure. Abatement of noise in the community is
usually incidental to the fulfillment of their main objec-
tive. In the area of construction equipment, the Depart-
ment of Transportation, on the other hand, is primarily
concerned with abating environmental noise which occurs
during construction of highways and mass transit systems.
The Department of Defense; Environmental Protection Agency,
through the Office of Noise Abatement and Control (ONAC);
Department of Agriculture, through the U.S. Forest Service
(USFS), and the Agricultural Research Service (ARS); and
Department of Commerce, through the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) work toward the abatement of both occupa-
tional and environmental noise.
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3.1.2 Technological Change and the Purpose of RD&D
The noise RD&D efforts of the Federal Government pro-
vide technological answers which can and do solve noise
problems. However, many times the findings of research
are not always fully implemented. To understand why prob-
lems still exist in spite of technological solutions, it
is necessary to understand the steps in effecting technolog-
ical change. The process of technological change is com-
prised of three stages:
RD&D which provides the knowledge basis for
technological change.
Production in which new knowledge and resources
are incorporated in goods, productive processes,
or services.
Market use whereby the fruits of production enter
the marketplace and provide social and economic
benefits.
This report deals with the initial stage, RD&D.
Any break within these three stages stops the process
of technological change. If the technology to solve a
noise problem does not exist, then there is no first stage
and no basis for technological change to take place. But,
having the noise technology available does not, in itself,
ensure technological change. There are many problems
which can arise to forestall efforts to implement known
noise technology. A principal problem is economics where
the ratio of cost versus benefit is a vital trade-off
parameter.
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3.2 AGENCY ASSESSMENTS
The following assessments have been prepared collec-
tively by members of the Federal Interagency Machinery and
Construction Noise Research Panel.* These assessments are
the consensus of the panel members and are not necessarily
the official views of the Federal agencies.
3.2.1 Department of the Interior
Mandates with Respect to Research
The Bureau of Mines (BOM) is authorized to conduct
noise research to develop the technology necessary to re-
duce the occupational health, safety, and environmental
problems associated with coal, metal, and non-metal mining
operations.
The Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration (MESA)
has a mandate to protect the mine worker through inspection
of mines and enforcement of health and safety requirements.
Scope of Current Efforts
The BOM Machinery Noise Research effort is the largest
reported among all Federal organizations. MESA has a com-
prehensive occupational noise program which includes engi-
neering investigations. These investigations complement
the efforts of BOM and are usually undertaken when applied
or immediate solutions are required. Without BOM involve-
ment in mining equipment noise research there would be a
void in the development of mining equipment noise control
technology because the mining industry for the most part
conducts little research. Construction machinery noise
research can be applied to some surface mining equipment.
The BOM research and investigative effort includes
the following areas:
Underground mining equipment
Surface mining equipment
Surface processing operations
Measurement of worker noise exposure
Technology transfer to private industry.
Since the USDA is not represented by panel membership, no
assessment is made of their machinery and construction noise
RD&D programs.
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Research is directed primarily at reducing noise at its
source. Although the most desirable approach to the problem
of excessive noise in mining operations is through develop-
ment and use of quieter equipment, accomplishing this in a
reasonable length of time would require excessive funding
levels and would ignore the problem of noise from existing
equipment. Thus research efforts are primarily concentrated
on identifying existing problems and developing retrofit
techniques to control the noise. The cooperation of both
manufacturers and coal companies is usually sought because
of the high cost and limited availability of mining machinery.
The noise controls developed must be cost effective, readily
implemented on a retrofit basis, and cause no interference
with normal operation of the machine. Current technology
development efforts are principally directed at retrofit
measures.
Accomplishments of the Noise RD&D Efforts
BOM and MESA have made notable progress in assessing
the noise problems associated with various types of mining
operations, identifying noise sources, and developing noise
control measures. Retrofit methods that can be used by in-
dustry have been developed to substantially reduce the noise
of some types of machines.
The BOM research program on mining noise was undertaken
in FY 71 at a minimum level and was directed at underground
coal mines. As the program developed, the scope was ex-
panded to include surface operations of coal mines and a
complementary program on noise problems in metal and non-
metal mine operations. Progress has been relatively slow
but commensurate with the magnitude of the problem. Parti-
cularly for underground operations, the hostile environment,
space limitations, and requirements for materials accept-
ability greatly complicate the application of noise control
measures. Noise control techniques must be evaluated on a
test machine under in situ production conditions. Conse-
quently the cooperation of mine operators is required.
In spite of these constraints, notable progress in the
development of noise control technology has been made in
certain areas. However, the reduction of the number of
people exposed to hazardous noise (the principal goal of
the research program) has been less than it could have been
because of the slowness of mining industry in adopting the
noise control technology that has been developed.
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Examples of a few of the noise control technology re-
search accomplishments are:
The stoper drill (a tool somewhat similar to the
jackhammer) is found at many mines. BOM has de-
veloped measures, suitable for field use, to re-
duce noise levels from approximately 120 dB* to
as low as 107 dB. MESA working with BOM under-
took an effort to transfer this technology to
the mining industry and to the mining equipment
manufacturers. Partly as a result of these efforts,
this technology has been adopted commercially in
an available noise control retrofit package.
In addition to the stoper retrofit efforts, a
BOM effort is underway to reduce stoper noise
through machine redesign. The feasibility of
building a stoper drill with noise levels reduced
to 95 to 100 dB has been proven through the build-
ing and testing of a prototype. Six production
type models are being built for field testing.
Notable progress in identifying and assessing
mining related noise problems has been made.
This involved factors such as identification of
the severity of noise problems, number of people
impacted, and noise sources. Examples of some
mining activities investigated are: surface and
underground mining operations, taconite plants,
diesel powered underground mining equipment, and
surface coal mining equipment.
The auger miner used in low seam height coal
mines has been identified by MESA to be a major
source of hazardous noise. The Jeffrey 100-L
and the Wilcox Mark 20 auger miners are the two
principal types in use. BOM has developed a re-
trofit kit to reduce noise from the Jeffrey
auger miner. This kit now needs to be field
tested. BOM and MESA developed noise reduction
retrofit kits for the Wilcox Mark 20 that were
shown to be suitable for field use through 1-%
years of field testing. MESA undertook an effort
for field adoption of this technology. Private
industry, utilizing the results of this research,
All sound levels identified for DOI are at the operator's ear in
the underground environment.
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has now commercially marketed a noise retrofit
kit for the Mark 20. Further work is still re-
quired on the auger miner.
BOM has developed measures to reduce noise of a
Wagner Mining Company load-haul dump machine from
99 to 93 dB. Wagner makes 80 percent of the
approximately 700 diesel powered mining vehicles
in operation. After more than a year of use under
production conditions, the noise control system
is still intact and performing as expected. As
a result of this demonstration project, Wagner
is marketing a noise quieting package for new
equipment.
There are about 400 coal preparation plants in
operation. The feasibility of reducing exposure
to hazardous noise in coal preparation plants to
comply with noise regulations has been demon-
strated. Both the effectiveness of the noise
abatement measures and compatibility with pro-
duction requirements was proven. MESA through
its inspection and technical assistance is help-
ing to implement this technology.
BOM and MESA have worked closely in coordinating their
noise research and investigative activities to establish
priorities. At least 60 percent of the BOM research has
been performed after concurrent agreement was reached be-
tween BOM and MESA. The information MESA gained through
its field inspection has been invaluable in guiding BOM
research programs. There are serious concerns about the
effects of the transfer of MESA from DOI to DOL. With
MESA and BOM in separate departments a greater effort will
be required to ensure that they collaborate as closely as
in the past. Most notably MESA has been directly involved
in transferring BOM-developed technology to industry.
Adequacy of Funding
Noise research funding at BOM became adequate in FY 78
to support all planned research programs. Priorities given
to noise research have increased to where noise research
funding levels are now 5 percent of the total BOM Safety
and Health budget. Though current funding levels are
adequate for the noise research activities planned, a con-
tinued high level of funding is necessary because of the
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magnitude of the mining noise problem. Several factors
could dramatically alter current research requirements.
Mining operations are growing and needs for noise source
control are increasing. BOM research programs are new and
continually changing to meet rising needs.
Areas for Future Research
Future research efforts by BOM will need to address
just about all mining machinery since most equipment has
noise levels above 90 dB. The program needs to look at
both equipment retrofit and redesign. Future noise research
efforts will, however, require some shifting of the current
RD&D priorities from retrofit to equipment or process re-
design.
Almost all of the acoustical technology required to
develop mining machinery to meet the current 90 dB standard
is available today. It is now necessary to determine
methods of applying this technology in a manner that will
satisfy the unique problems of the mining industry.
3.2.2 Environmental Protection Agency
Mandates with Respect to Research
The Noise Control Act gives EPA the authority to iden-
tify major noise sources, issue labeling requirements, and
issue noise emission standards.
In addition, the Noise Control Act authorizes EPA to
complement the noise research programs of other Federal
agencies by conducting and financing research on the effects,
measurement, and control of noise, including determining the
most effective and practicable means of controlling noise
emission.
Scope of Current RD&D Efforts
There has been little RD&D activity by EPA in the ma-
chinery and construction equipment area. The few programs
undertaken prior to FY 77 dealt primarily with noise measure-
ment methodologies. FY 77 was marked by an increase in the
level of RD&D effort and funding. EPA has recently initi-
ated demonstration programs for construction site and
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industrial machinery noise reduction. It has also initiated
a research program that will lead to a demonstration project
for internal combustion engines. The industrial machinery
program will identify products for source regulations and
identify areas where technological advances are needed and
demonstrate the feasibility of current noise control method-
ology. The internal combustion engine program will advance
the state-of-the-art of noise control for internal com-
bustion engines. Since internal combustion engines are
common to a class of products, accomplishments will result
in benefits to a number of areas.
EPA/ONAC has construction equipment pre-regulatory
action underway (technology assessments, health and welfare
impacts, and economic impacts) on earthmoving equipment
such as backhoes, scrapers, excavators, and trenchers. In
addition, final regulatory development activities are to
continue on pavement breakers and rock drills.
Accomplishments of RD&D Efforts
EPA's regulatory actions with respect to machinery
and construction equipment are:
A noise emission regulation effective January 1,
1978 limits noise emissions of new portable air
compressors to 76 dB.
A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking was issued for
wheel and crawler tractors in July 1977.
A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking was issued for
truck-mounted solid waste compactors in August
1977.
EPA1s demonstration programs for noise mitigation
from construction sites and industrial machinery, and the
research program on internal combustion engine noise control
are in their initial stages. Thus it is too early to re-
port accomplishments.
Adequacy of Funding
EPA's Office of Research and Development has discon-
tinued its support of noise control RD&D. In the past ONAC
has elected not to request research funds but to depend on
existing resources and research commitments in other agencies,
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With the de-emphasis that is taking place in other agencies
there is a greater need for EPA to support research through
actual funding. EPA has found it difficult to influence the
research programs in advancing the state-of-the-art without
a research budget. Increased RD&D funding would enable EPA
to support a broad noise control technology development
effort.
Areas for Future Research
Noise technology RD&D efforts are needed for a wide
range of products in the machinery and construction area
to reduce excessive noise levels. EPA's responsibilities
resulting from their charge as set forth in the Noise Con-
trol Act are broad.
EPA's program plan for FY 78 and FY 79 currently
includes regulatory standards and preregulatory study
activities for the following product or class of products:
Earthmoving equipment (backhoes, scrapers, ex-
cavators, trenchers, and similar performing ma-
chines)
Road building equipment (graders, pavers, rollers,
compactors, and other equipment)
Small engine powered equipment (motor generator
sets, pumps, commercial lawn and garden care
equipment, commercial snow removal equipment,
etc.)
Electrical and electronic equipment (power trans-
formers, welding equipment, home heating and ven-
tilating equipment, and lighting systems)
EPA's regulatory plans defined above identify areas
where future research is required. Standards are limited
by and based upon best available technology. To meet
national goals, more stringent standards may be needed.
Thus, research is needed to develop the technology to meet
these lower noise emission standards.
Some very specific areas regarded by EPA as requiring
noise RD&D are:
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New designs of pneumatic and hydraulic pavement
breakers and rock drills which address the funda-
mental problem of noise produced by the interac-
tion of the tool and workpiece
Investigations of new combustion processes of in-
ternal combustion engines that result in a decrease
in the noise generating mechanisms rather than
the noise radiating mechanisms
Research activities toward the design of quiet
fans
A broadening of the technical information base
concerning typical work cycle noise levels or
representative samples of road building and con-
struction activities
A development of data base relating to the noise
degradation of construction equipments and ma-
chinery as a function of time, use cycle, use
environments, maintenance, and productivity
Workplace noise is a major occupational safety and
health problem. There is currently a void in the Federal
government with respect to noise RD&D technology develop-
ment for industrial equipment of all types, EPA should
take a lead in filling this void.
3.2.3 Department of Health, Education, and Welfare
Mandates with Respect to Research
The HEW noise effort with Machinery and Construction
activities is carried out by the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). NIOSH is charged
with undertaking activities related to insuring safe and
healthful workplace conditions. Results of the National
Occupational Hazard Survey,^ conducted by NIOSH, reveal
that over four million Americans are exposed to noise
levels in excess of 85 dB in some 110,000 plants through-
out the United States. There is ample evidence that these
noise levels cause hearing loss and safety problems.
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Scope of Current Efforts
The emphasis of NIOSH research before FY 76 was on
noise effects rather than noise control. However, since
FY 76 several noise control research projects have been
undertaken. Utilizing the NIOSH research grant program,
funds were made available to North Carolina State Univer-
sity (NCSU) to conduct research in several areas: punch
press noise, wood working noise, and noise generated during
textile manufacturing.
In 1976 NIOSH reorganized, and a group was formed
to study the control of physical agents in the occupational
environment. This group has initiated several noise con-
trol projects.
During FY 78 NIOSH will complete revisions to the
Industrial Noise Control Manual and the Compendium of
Materials for Noise Control which will remain useful to a
large segment of industry.
Accomplishments
The NIOSH program in noise control, although small,
has managed several major accomplishments:
Publication of two reference works, the Industrial
Noise Control Manual and the Compendium of Materials
for Noise Control, both of which have been widely
utilized. Both publications are currently being
updated
Development of noise control techniques for one
punch press by North Carolina State University
under a NIOSH grant
Development of methods for reducing wood planer
noise by approximately 6 dB at operator locations
by North Carolina State University under a NIOSH
grant
Development of techniques to reduce noise levels
in textile mills by 4.5 dB, as well as dissemi-
nation of information on these techniques to
industry
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Adequacy of Funding
Recently there has been a de-emphasis in the NIOSH
noise program partly as a result of other occupation health
areas receiving higher priority. Funds and manpower required
to support an adequate level of effort in noise have been
unavailable.
Areas for Future Research
There is no comprehensive Federal involvement in
industrial machinery noise research despite the fact that
millions of workers are exposed to hazardous levels of
noise. The technology to quiet many industrial machines
has not yet been demonstrated.
3.2.4 Department of Defense
Mandates with Respect to Research
The DOD mission requires a noise RD&D program to min-
imize detection in combat, reduce the incidence of hearing
loss to military personnel, improve communication, and
minimize the impact of peacetime military base operations
on surrounding communities. Principal machinery and con-
struction noise problems associated with military operations
are: weapons (armor, artillery, demolition, bombs, and
small arms), equipment onboard boats and ships, machinery
(dozers, engines, generators, etc.), weapons manufacturing
equipment, military base and facility operations, and
military construction and civil works activities, (hydro-
electric dams, dredges, levee repairs equipment).
Scope of Current Efforts
The Navy has a large machinery noise RD&D effort for
the submarine and surface fleet directed principally at
fleet detection avoidance. Also of concern are the reduc-
tion of the incidence of hearing loss and improvement of
speech intelligibility among Naval personnel. Research as
indicated by the projects identified, is directed at ship-
board machinery such as pumps, compressors, ventilation sys-
tems, electrical and mechanical systems. Because much of
the Navy work has been identified as classified, little
information has been made available to the panel.
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The Army's machinery and construction equipment noise
RD&D effort has two principal components. The first ad-
dresses specific noise sources involving mostly construction
related equipment such as dozers and diesel generators. The
second involves efforts to reduce noise associated with
military base operations arising from the amalgamation of
the many base activities. This second effort involves the
development and improvement of methodologies for predicting
and mitigating noise levels associated with base operations.
This research effort will help the military to operate bases
that are compatible with surrounding community life. Build-
ing acoustics, which might be considered a third component,
is also addressed.
No noise research activities have been identified by
the Air Force for this area.
Accomplishments
The following are some of the accomplishments of the
Army program:
A preliminary methodology for identifying the com-
posite noise signature from all noise sources on
military bases has been developed for land use
planning. Primary noise sources of consideration
in this methodology are aircraft and weapons. The
composite noise signatures (contours) provide base
planners with a tool to locate buildings and oper-
ations to minimize noise intrusions and to work
with neighboring communities. Validation and re-
finement of this methodology is underway.
Noise levels of rough terrain Army forklifts have
been reduced at operator positions to 90 dB. Field
deployed forklifts are currently being retrofitted
under a $6.5 million program. Retrofit kits have
also been developed for wheeled dozers, with about
$10.2 million being spent on implementation.
This work contributes to the Army's effort to
reduce the incidence of hearing loss.
A method of reducing the background noise levels
of air conditioning units in Army field deployed
shelters was developed and implemented. Noise
levels were reduced to improve communication.
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Reduction of noise associated with military
construction site activity is closer to reality
because of initial RD&D efforts to control, noise
through specification requirements, management
of site noise, and studies of costs associated
with noise control strategies. Cost variables
are to be a part of all noise control evaluations
of DOD construction site activities.
A true integrating noise monitor to measure the
impulse sources unique to military operations has
been developed. Currently available commercial
designs, with their analog circuitry, are unable
to accurately measure the impulsive noise. These
monitors coupled with Army-developed temporal
sampling criteria, enable assessments of military
weapon noise intrusions to be readily made.
Adequacy of Funding
Considering the vast areas of land currently or poten-
tially impacted by noise emanating from military facilities,
current funding can only address the "tip of the iceberg"
in applied research and is all but non-existent in the more
fundamental areas.
Funding to develop noise exposure prediction methodo-
logies for specialized military operations will lead to
the development of validated methodologies by 1985 if
current funding levels are maintained.
Fundamental research required to refine and improve
methodologies and to assess the worth of various strategies
is virtually non-existent. This research should as a
minimum be funded at 50 percent of current applied research
funding levels.
Areas for Future Research
To support the goal of making the noise from military
base operations compatible with surrounding civilian commu-
nity activities, further research is required in the develop-
ment of noise impact prediction methodologies as well as
abatement measures. Related factors such as sound propaga-
tion, noise source characteristics, community response to
noise intrusions common to military operations, and costs/
benefits associated with reducing noise also need to be
addressed.
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Research is required to continue development of the
noise abatement measures applicable to DOD civilian con-
struction works such as hydroelectric dams, construction
dredging, and levee repairs.
The DOD mission imposes needs for protecting the
hearing of military personnel, avoiding detection in combat,
and providing acceptable communication.
Methods to mitigate industrial machinery noise such as
in Navy shipyards or on Corps of Engineers dredges are re-
quired to reduce the incidence of hearing loss.
Environmental needs unique to DOD can only be achieved
by direct DOD sponsored research. DOD's hearing conser-
vation needs can be achieved by direct DOD research, by
technology transfer from other Federal agency programs, or
by encouraging private industry to conduct research through
imposition of noise requirements in purchase specifications.
3.2.5 Department of Commerce
Mandates with Respect to Research
The Department of Commerce conducts the noise RD&D
effort through the National Bureau of Standards (NBS). NBS
activities in environmental noise measurement are undertaken
to support the NBS mandate for developing and maintaining
standards of measurement used in scientific investigations,
engineering, manufacturing and commerce, as well as in sup-
port of Section 14 of the Noise Control Act of 1972. The
Noise Control Act authorizes and encourages a cooperative
relationship between NBS and the EPA in regard to developing
methodologies and standards.
The NBS role is unique in that its mission is primarily
restricted to addressing questions about the validity and
adequacy of measurement procedures. NBS's efforts are di-
rected at ensuring that the many regulations and administra-
tive actions directed towards the control and abatement of
noise are guided by scientifically valid measurement method-
ology.
Regulatory and other Federal agencies are each vitally
affected by existing and proposed noise emission regulations.
Leadership in the development of consistent and adequate
physical measurement for these purposes is a required role
of NBS.
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These needs for measurement methodologies are all-
pervasive in the implementation of noise control engineering
or of regulations, for the vast majority of engineering data
have been shown to be explicitly or implicitly reliant upon
measurement at some point. Measurement error as a conse-
quence of reliance upon imperfect noise measurement methodo-
logies can give rise to significant and substantial economic
and social impacts. NBS estimates of the annual costs to
consumers associated with systematic measurement errors of
1 dB are more than $300 million.8
Scope of Current Efforts
The NBS program in acoustics is directed toward meeting
the country's need for noise measurement methodology and
providing services that require reference to national stan-
dards. The principal effort has been to quantify the un-
certainties associated with existing test methods, to con-
duct research to enable improved measurement technology,
and to work closely with regulatory agencies and standards
organizations to promote the incorporation of reliable
measurement procedures in noise emission regulations.
Accomplishments
Recent work has been directed at determining the ade-
quacy of present noise measurement standards. This deter-
mination has consisted primarily of critical reviews of
the sources of measurement error and experimental measure-
ment using existing NBS facilities and present procedures.
These studies indicate the magnitude of measurement impreci-
sion and systematically address the requirements for improve-
ments in the existing standards and provide the scientific
and technical basis for improvements to those standards.
A continuing study is addressing the adequacy of a cur-
rent air conditioning industry measurement practice for de-
termining the sound power of small sources in reverberation
rooms. This is a critical study because EPA is considering
regulation or labeling of noise emissions of air condition-
ing equipment. A revision to the current sound power measure-
ment standard^ of the American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) has been proposed by NBS and is under study by ANSI
authorities.
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Low frequency panel absorbers have been designed and
installed on the walls of NBS's large reverberation room to
increase the precision of the acoustic power measurements
conducted therein. This improvement will facilitate a series
of comparisons of acoustic power measurements. These measure-
ments address the continuing concern over variations in the
acoustic power emitted and measured in differing acoustic
environments by reference sound sources.
The measurement of source noise emission outdoors in
a free field above an acoustically hard reflecting plane is
of great interest because of its proposed use in noise en-
forcement programs. Measurement of the signal propagation
over, and of the acoustic characteristics of the surface
has been refined by the use of cross-correlation techniques
in the analysis of broad-band signal propagation. Improved
accuracy in determining the impedance of a hard asphalt
surface as well as the separation of effects due to propaga-
tion from effects due to variations in source emission are
expected to result from this work.
Adequacy of Funding
Deficiencies in funding and manpower have restricted
the scope of the NBS program and prevented necessary work
from being undertaken. With respect to facilities, for ex-
ample, NBS was unable to accommodate EPA, Office of Noise
Abatement and Control's need for evaluation and development
of a noise measurement methodology for window air condi-
tioners because of the absence, at NBS, of appropriately
coupled reverberation room facilities with environmental
control systems. NBS has a mandate to support the measure-
ment needs of engineering and commerce; however, the absence
of adequate representative test facilities of this nature
imposes a severe constraint on the NBS program.
In general, increased funding and manpower would enable
program expansions in areas not identified with facility
constraints; however, allocation of funding for test facili-
ties, instrumentation and test sites will also enable expan-
sion in void areas.
Areas for Future Research
Dependence on voluntary standards may increase in the
future due to the proposed Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) policy that the Federal government is to rely on
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commercial standards whenever feasible. It is essential
that NBS maintain extensive involvement in the development
of voluntary standards. This involvement is particularly
important since there are no non-governmental organizations
to support acoustics research in standards. This is also
important because of the involvement of NBS in providing
a centralized effort for research in measurement accuracy
to support the several Federal agencies involved in acous-
tics. NBS technical support to other agencies will be re-
quired in the development of acoustical measurement instru-
mentation and standards. NBS provides a centralized effort
for research on measurement accuracy for the Federeil Govern-
ment.
Specific topics which future research must address
include:
Development of means for specifying limitations
on atmospheric conditions (wind and temperature
gradients, barometric pressure, relative humidity),
and procedures for accounting for influence of
these factors on measurements of the actual noise
emitted by a source.
Development of means for specifying physical
characteristics of test sites, including such
factors as site flatness, acoustical impedance
of test pads, and maximum size of reflecting
objects.
Development of procedures for adjusting data for
the influence of test site and atmospheric prop-
erties to correspond to what would have been ob-
tained under standard conditions.
Development of experimental procedures to enable
noise measurements under less than favor£ible wind
conditions.
Development of in situ procedures for highly
accurate and precise measurements of industrial
machinery noise. The correction factors used
to account for the acoustic conditions of a
machinery space are not technically well based
at present. These factors are principal variables
affecting comparisons of data obtained in differing,
non-ideal test environments. Similarly, proce-
dures for the estimation of noise emission when
machinery is closely spaced or clustered need to
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be developed and studied for their adequacy in
implementing noise control engineering.
3.2.6 Department of Transportation
Mandates with Respect to Research
The Department of Transportation (DOT) has a mandate
to undertake research and development relating to transpor-
tation, including noise abatement. The Department of
Transportation administers large trust funds which finance
the construction of highways and urban mass transit systems.
Construction of these systems impact surrounding communi-
ties; for example, EPA has estimated that approximately
seven million people are exposed to construction noise from
Federal and State highway projects. While this represents
only a small percentage of the population (approximately
three percent), DOT considers it to be a potentially serious
problem due to the magnitude of the noise levels.
Scope of Current Efforts
The noise from highway construction is transient in
that it moves as the construction activity proceeds forward
and ends when the facility has been completed. For this
reason, Federal, State, and local attention is primarily
directed toward traffic noise impacts resulting from high-
way operations rather than on highway construction noise.
In fact, it is difficult if not impossible, to determine
whether complaints received during construction of such
facilities are in fact directed toward the construction
activity itself or toward the future highway—and its re-
sultant traffic noise—which will remain a part of the
neighborhood long after the construction is completed.
The Departmental program in this area—carried out by
the Office of Noise Abatement and the Federal Highway Ad-
ministration—is directed toward two distinct goals: (1)
transfer of demonstrated truck noise abatement technology
to construction equipment typically utilized in the construc-
tion of transportation facilities, especially highways, and
(2) development and dissemination of guidelines for the
measurement, prediction, and mitigation of highway construc-
tion noise for use by community planners and interested
groups and individuals who must deal with such problems.
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Accomplishments
Because of funding limitations the initiation of con-
struction noise control demonstration programs has been de-
layed and has not been able to fully address the entire
range of source and/or site mitigation techniques. Even
so, past DOT efforts in this area have produced some.
noteworthy accomplishments. Examples include:
Demonstration that truck exhaust noise reduction
technology could be transferred to selected pieces
of construction equipment. For reasonably well-
muffled machines, it was found that improved muf-
fling would lower noise levels an additional 1 to
3 dB* while for equipment whicji either did not
have a muffler or had a very poor one, application
of a good muffler would reduce noise levels 6 to
12 dB.
Development and dissemination of interim guide-
lines for the measurement, prediction and mitiga-
tion of highway construction noise based on the
current state-of-the-art.
Demonstration to indicate that ground vibrations
associated with pile driving and trucks operating on
haul roads are not of sufficient magnitude to cause
physical damage to surrounding structures.
Adequacy of Funding
The DOT program is a relatively small effort. Due to
other priorities available funding has been, and continues
to remain, limited.
Areas for Future Research
It is anticipated that DOT will maintain a low level
effort in the near future to develop the necessary data to
revise the interim guidelines.
All sound level reductions identified for DOT are determined
from measurements at 50 feet from the source.
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3.3 OVERALL ASSESSMENT
The noise RD&D efforts by both industry and the
Federal government can provide technological answers to
solve present and future problems. There currently appears
to be an insufficient number of noise abatement technology
demonstration programs. Federal efforts to develop and
demonstrate noise control technology for future noise
abatement actions should be increased significantly.
There are many reasons why the Federal government needs
to be involved in noise research and development. While
the major responsibility for developing the needed tech-
nology should rest with industry, investment by the Federal
government is necessary in some cases to help bring new
technology into the marketplace or to stimulate industry
developments. This Federal initiative is appropriate when:
The market is not responsive to the demands (needs)
of society
A directed effort is needed to meet a national
objective
Development costs exceed the financial capability
of any one manufacturer
Feasible noise-reducing technology must exist for
enforcement of regulations.
In the case of DOD, there are unique noise problems which
only they can address.
Specific benefits from Federal sponsorship of research
are:
Results are equally available to all manufacturers.
The results of industry RD&D are usually closely
held, and even if they were implemented, would
not provide a broad base of application potential
Spin-offs and technology transfer help to mitigate
noise problems in other areas
The Federal government is provided with a basis
for regulatory and enforcement actions.
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3.3.1 Interagency Cooperation
Many interagency cooperative efforts were undertaken
during the FY 75 through FY 78 time period. DOC/NBS for
example, provided technical assistance and/or measurement
data for EPA for truck-mounted solid waste compactors,
paving breakers and rock drills, dozers and loaders, truck
refrigeration units and household appliances. NBS also
provided measurement data and technical support to EPA
(prior to FY 75) for the EPA noise emission regulations
for portable compressors promulgated in 1976.
Within DOD, the Departments of the Army and Navy col-
laborated with EPA. The Army provided test data and
methodology studies for dozers and loaders and paving
breakers and rock drills. The Army also performed non-
highway construction site noise studies. The Navy is
undertaking a joint program with EPA to demonstrate noise
control in shipyards.
In FY 78 EPA will jointly fund a highway construction
noise study with DOT and a building construction study with
the Corps of Engineers. EPA is planning cooperative demon-
stration programs in FY 78 with other Federal agencies on
industrial noise control.
In order for the Federal agencies involved in machinery
and construction equipment noise RD&D to effectively meet
national objectives for noise abatement, continued coop-
eration is essential. EPA will continue to take a lead
role in coordinating Federal machinery and construction
noise RD&D activities primarily because of its role in the
promulgation of regulations. The technological accomplish-
ments of the other Federal agencies are most important in
forming the bases for regulatory legislation. EPA must
collaborate with all agencies: (1) to gain knowledge
on noise control techniques as well as measurement method-
ologies and (2) to disseminate information to other agencies
for their use in either setting priorities for research,
setting policy for land use planning, or enforcement of
regulations.
Close collaboration needs to be maintained between
the Federal organizations involved in occupational noise
control, BOM and NIOSH, and the Federal organizations in-
volved in occupational noise enforcement, MESA and the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). It is
hoped that the effective coordination of activities between
BOM and MESA will continue in spite of MESA's transfer from
DOI to the Department of Labor.
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3.3.2 Adequacy of Funding
In 1974 the requirements of the Noise Control Act of
1972 began to have an impact on the budgetary cycle of Federal
agencies. The charge to EPA by the Act was interpreted by
the other agencies as a lessening of their charges with
respect to noise. The end result has been a change in
priorities within some Federal agencies away from noise
RD&D at a time when there has been increasing concern to
solve noise problems which affect both industrial workers
and the community.
In addition, other actions have occurred which have
resulted in reduced emphasis on noise RD&D:
The National Science Foundation, which was one
of the earliest proponents of noise RD&D, has
significantly reduced its emphasis in this area
The Department of Housing and Urban Development
has significantly reduced its efforts in the area
of noise control research
The recent reorganization of the Secretary's
office in the Department of Transportation
disestablished the Office of Noise Abatement which
provided effective centralized coordinating
functions for all of the operating administrations
of DOT
NIOSH has structured a very limited and inadequate
role for itself in the machinery noise RD&D tech-
nology area. Program plans for FY 78 and beyond
have been directed at little beyond textile mach-
inery.
3.3.3 Research Needs
There must be a balance between fundamental research,
technology development, and demonstration. Fundamental
research and demonstration programs are currently under-
funded and need greater emphasis. Demonstration programs
need to go beyond the laboratory demonstration stage to
prove practicability in an operating environment.
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Reducing machinery noise is important because it in-
volves a large portion of the working population exposed to
hazardous noise levels. Virtually all areas of the raining
and manufacturing industries need noise RD&D to solve exist-
ing and future problems. Manufacturing equipment must be
quieted to improve worker health. Programs must be initiated
and should concentrate on equipment and processes which
create the most severe exposures and/or which may be common
to many industries.
Impulsive noise RD&D efforts to develop predictive
methods, mitigation techniques, and reduction strategies
need to be expanded. Large amplitude impulse noise is a
particularly severe noise problem, especially to DOD (armor,
artillery, small arms, etc.).
It is necessary that "corrective factors" be developed
to allow comparisons of industrial machinery noise data
obtained in differing environments or sites. Significant
experimental investigation is needed on the effects of ground
surface (topography) and meteorological conditions on sound
propagation, especially in relation to construction sites,
certification measurements, and large amplitude impulses.
There is currently no significant sustained noise RD&D
technology effort underway in the Federal government (with
the exception of that of BOM) to support the development
of low noise industrial machinery and to create an environ-
ment that is adequate to protect the hearing of the American
work force.
Demonstration programs are needed to establish the
practicability of noise control technology for construction
equipment. Some of the noise control technology developed
in the surface transportation area can possibly have spin-offs
to the construction equipment area.
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3.4 ASSESSMENT REFERENCES
1. Toward a National Strategy for Noise Control, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., April 1977, GPO No. 1977-
720-117/1999.
2. Guidelines for Preparing Environmental Impact Statements on
Noise, Report of Working Group 69, Committee on Hearing Bio-
acoustics, and Biomechanics Assembly of Behavioral and Social
Sciences, National Research Council, 1977.
3. Estimate provided November, 1977 by MESA, Pittsburgh Technical
Support Center, Division of Health Technology, Noise Branch.
4. An Assessment of the Machinery Noise Problem of the Fabricated
Metal Products Industry, Summary Report J 0331, U.S. Environ-
mental Protection Agency, Industrial Environmental Research
Lab, Cincinnati, Ohio, January 1976.
5. Noise in America, Bolt Beranek and Newman, Inc., Draft Report
No. 3318, June 1978.
6. Prediction was determined from EPA construction site noise
impact assessment model, March 11, 1978.
7. National Occupational Hazard Survey, Vol. 3, HEW, NIOSH,
Cincinatti, Ohio, to be published in April 1978.
8. The Economic Impact of Acoustic Measurement Uncertainty, Bolt
Beranek and Newman, Inc., Draft Report No. 3538, for National
Bureau of Standards, Washington, D.C., June 1977.
9. Methods for the Determination of Sound Power Levels of Small
Sources in Reverberation Rooms, American National Standards
Institute (ANSI), SI.21-1972.
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4.0 AGENCY PROGRAMS
Noise research programs conducted or sponsored by
each agency, while contributing to the national objectives
of noise reduction in general, are primarily focused on
the specific agency's needs for complying with its legis-
lative mandates. The noise RD&D activities are directly
related to their civilian or military constituency needs.
This section of the report discusses the overall
noise program objectives of each Agency with respect to
their noise control mandates.
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4.1 DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
The Department of the Interior (DOI) was created by
the act of March 3, 1849 (9 Stat. 395; 43 U.S.C. 1451).
Over the years, as functions have been added and removed,
its role has changed from that of general housekeeper for
the Federal government to that of custodian of the nation's
natural resources.
The organizations within the Department reporting
machinery and construction equipment noise programs include
the Bureau of Mines and the Mining Enforcement and Safety
Administration (MESA).* These two organizations report
to the Secretary of the Interior through the Assistant
Secretary for Energy and Minerals.
4.1.1 Bureau of Mines
The Bureau of Mines was established July 1, 1910, in
the DOI by the Organic Act of May 16, 1910 (36 Stat. 369;
30 U.S.C. Sees. 1, 3, 5-7), as amended. This Act has
been supplemented by several statutes, including those
that authorize the conduct of research on environmental
problems associated with minerals. The Bureau's overall
objective with respect to noise is to develop the necessary
technology to reduce noise exposure of mining personnel
to within the limits set by the mandatory standards promul-
gated under the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of
1969 and the Federal Metal and Nonmetallic Mine Safety Act
(PL 91-173 and PL 89-577). The Federal Coal Mine Health
and Safety Act also authorized appropriation of funds for
a balanced program of research and technical support to
build a mining technology amenable with long-lasting health
and safety improvements.
The Federal Mine Safety and Health Amendments Act of 1977 trans-
ferred MESA from the Department of Interior to the Department
of Labor. The transfer becomes effective March 9, 1978. There
will be no loss of organizational integrity in MESA, and MESA
will be renamed the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA).
Mandatory standards issued under PL 91-173 and PL 89-577
remain in effect under the 1977 act.
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The Bureau of Mines' objectives with respect to noise
are accomplished through development and implementation of
engineering noise control techniques and measuring instru-
mentation. The following goals have been defined:
Abatement of noise in underground mining equip-
ment, surface mining equipment, and surface
processing operations associated with mining
Improvements in worker noise exposure measurement
techniques
Transfer of technology to industry.
Underground and surface mining equipments are being
assessed with the objective of reducing operator daily
noise exposure levels to 90 dB or lower.
The thrust of the noise abatement effort is directed
toward identifying the sources of noise and reducing the
noise at these sources. The noise reduction techniques
developed must be cost effective, suitable for retrofit,
and cause minimum interference with machine operations.
Bureau of Mines noise research programs deal primarily
with existing mine operations and are usually conducted
in close cooperation with mining equipment manufacturers
and mine operators. Project selection is based in large
part on problems identified by MESA1s inspection and engi-
neering noise control activities. Noise abatement arid
control projects have been undertaken for various mining
equipments such as roof bolters, loaders, continuous
miners, conveyors, pneumatic drills, mantrip vehicles,
and crushers. These projects involve the development of
new noise control techniques, incorporation of new designs
or modifications into existing equipment, and demonstra-
tion of utility, survivability, repairability, and noise
reduction under field conditions. A comprehensive noise
control handbook is being prepared to provide guidelines
for the selection, design, and implementation of effective
abatement methods for mine machinery noise. Language: that
is clearly understandable by the mining community will pre-
sent essential acoustical information and describe details
and techniques developed and demonstrated by BOM and others,
Projects planned but not yet funded include develop-
ment of quiet resilient decks for coal screening, identifi-
cation of noise sources in longwall mining systems, defini-
tion of acoustic radiation characteristics of underground
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coal cutting augers, and development of noise controls for
surface coal cutting augers.
4.1.2 Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration
The Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration
(MESA) was established May 7, 1973, by Secretarial Order
No. 2953. The functions of the Administration are carried
out under the authority of the Federal Metal and Nonmetallic
Mine Safety Act of 1966 and the Federal Coal Mine Health
and Safety Act of 1969. In addition to establishing occu-
pational noise limits for mining personnel, these Acts
provide for the inspection of domestic mines and enforce-
ment of all health and safety requirements.
MESA's programs are directed toward controlling health
hazards and reducing fatalities and injuries in the mineral
industries. These objectives are accomplished by MESA
through mine inspections, field investigations, engineering
studies, safety education, training and motivation, health
studies, and the development and enforcement of appropriate
health and safety standards.
MESA does not have a research mission similar to that
of the Bureau of Mines. However, MESA's Pittsburgh Techni-
cal Support Center, Noise Branch, which provides technical
support to MESA"s enforcement activity, conducts noise
development and control projects aimed toward defining
a noise problem and providing early solutions using exist-
ing technology. Close liaison is maintained with the
noise research group at the Pittsburgh Mining and Safety
Research Center of the Bureau of Mines. When a need for
extensive research and development is determined, referrals
are made to the Bureau of Mines.
In addition to the noise control activities, MESA
performs noise studies related to noise instrumentation,
exploratory studies, and standards development. Instru-
mentation work is devoted to development of more precise,
easier to use noise instruments to facilitate monitoring
of the miner's noise environment. Exploratory studies
are valuable for forecasting potential noise problem areas.
The objective of standards and specifications development
is to ensure reliable, accurate noise instrumentation for
MESA as well as for the mining industry.
The activities of the Pittsburgh Technical Support
Center's Noise Branch" since 1975 included noise control
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work relative to such products as underground auger miners,
pneumatic stoper drills, coal preparation plants, strip
mine equipment, and underground fans. A few results of
these projects are: noise emissions were reduced from
102 to 97 dB for underground auger miners and from 117 to
as low as 105 dB for pneumatic stoper drills.
Other efforts included planning for an acoustical
calibration laboratory, evaluation and checkout of commer-
cially available noise dosimeters, acoustical characteri-
zation of the underground environment, development of noise
regulation standards, and presentation of training courses
to MESA inspectors.
In the area of noise instrumentation, a new calibra-
tion program was initiated, which is expected to ensure
the accuracy of the inspectors' noise measurements. A
second effort resulted in the development of a dosimeter
calibrator, which will permit the use of the noise dosi-
meter for noise surveys.
Activities in communications and standards develop-
ment are anticipated to enable the publication of new
techniques in noise control and more reliable and accurate
noise instruments for the MESA inspection force as well as
for industry. Exploratory studies are expected to yield
results valuable for forecasting potential noise problem
areas.
Appendix B identifies funding and provides brief
descriptions of projects conducted by DOI.
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4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was estab-
lished in the executive branch of the Federal government
as an independent agency pursuant to Reorganization Plan
No. 3 of 1970. It was created to facilitate coordinated
and effective governmental action relative to protection
of the environment. Therefore, EPA endeavors to abate
and control pollution systematically by integration of a
variety of research, monitoring, standard-setting, and
enforcement activities.
EPA derives specific noise control authority from the
Noise Control Act of 1972 (PL 92-574, October 1972).
The purpose of the Act is:
"...to establish a means for effective coordination
of Federal research and activities in noise control,
to authorize the establishment of Federal noise
emission standards for products distributed in
commerce, and to provide information to the public
respecting the noise emission and noise reduction
characteristics of such products..."
EPA's responsibilities relative to noise emission
regulatory authority include:
Identification of major noise sources; noise
criteria and control technology (Section 5)
Noise emission standards for products distributed
in commerce (Section 6)
Noise emission labeling (Section 8)
Interstate rail carrier noise emission standards
(Section 17)
Interstate motor carrier noise emission standards
(Section 18).
Regulatory activities include evaluation of the state-
of-the-art of product noise abatement technology, assess-
ment of attendant health and welfare benefits, consideration
of costs, and the development of noise compliance methodolo-
gies. In each of the above regulatory areas, the Congress
directed EPA to consult with appropriate Federal agencies.
These activities do not advance technology but instead
provide an assessment. Since these activities are essential
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to EPA in the promulgation of regulations, both in the
setting of noise emission levels and the determination of
noise measurement procedures, they are tabulated separately
in this report (Appendix I). They are also not included
in the noise RD&D funding totals of Appendix A.
Section 14 of the Noise Control Act defines EPA's
primary responsibilities relative to noise abatement and
control research programs and authorizes the Administrator
of EPA to complement as necessary the noise research
efforts of other Federal agencies by conducting and financ-
ing research on the effects, measurement, and control of
noise. All noise technology related RD&D activities con-
ducted by EPA are currently being carried out by its Office
of Noise Abatement and Control (ONAC).
4.2.1 Technology Assessment Programs
Machinery and construction equipment and related
products identified as major noise sources by EPA for
which technology assessments have been completed, include
the following:
Portable air compressors
Wheel and crawler tractors
Truck refrigeration units
Truck-mounted solid waste compactors
Lawn mowers
Pavement breakers and rock drills.
Studies in support of regulatory actions for these products
are in progress.
Technology assessment projects were conducted by EPA
through contracts with outside contractors or through
cooperative agreements with other agencies.
4.2.2 Research Programs
Noise-related RD&D activities in which ONAC partici-
pates involve advancement of the state-of-the-art of noise
control technology and demonstration of the practicality
and technical adequacy of newly developed noise control
concepts. EPA's involvement with research, however, has
principally been directed toward surface transportation
problems. In terms of funding, the FY 75 and FY 76 effort
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in machinery and construction noise is relatively small.
This effort dealt with impact noise and vibration evalu-
ation and measurement methodology. One study examined
noise sampling techniques for a number of different sta-
tionary and non-stationary noise sources for both surface
transportation and machinery and construction equipment.
A second study was directed at microsampling techniques
of noise measurement. A third study investigated the noise
and vibration problems associated with quarry operations.
In the FY 77 to FY 78 time period, EPA started programs
in the areas of engine technology and machine parts and
manufacturing equipment. A project was initiated to
advance the state-of-the-art and to demonstrate noise control
techniques applicable to internal combustion engines. The
diesel engine is one of the principal noise sources at
construction sites. This project supports both the surface
transportation and the machinery and construction equip-
ment areas. Two other programs, Occupational Noise in
Industrial Plants and Shipyard Noise Control, were initiated
to demonstrate noise control in industrial applications.
Both programs involving joint efforts with other Federal
agencies will identify potential and existing noise
problems; identify economic, production, and administra-
tive impacts associated with noise control; demonstrate
the feasibility of noise exposure reduction methods; and
identify areas where additional noise control research is
required.
Funding and brief project descriptions for EPA RD&D
and regulatory projects are identified in Appendices C
and I, respectively.
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4.3 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
The Department of Health, Education, and Welfare
(HEW) is a cabinet-level department of the Federal execu-
tive branch created by Congressional legislation in 1953.
The Center for Disease Control, a subdivision of the
Public Health Service, provides policy guidance and adminis-
trative management to the National Institute for Occupa-
tional Safety and Health (NIOSH), the arm of HEW which is
responsible for noise technology related RD&D.
By the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970
(Section 20 (9) (1) of PL 91-596) and the Federal Coal
Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 (PL 91-173), NIOSH
is charged with undertaking research and related activities
to ensure safe and healthful workplace conditions. With
respect to noise, the NIOSH effort is directed toward pro-
tecting the hearing of industrial workers. NIOSH conducts
programs to develop and demonstrate techniques that will
enable industry to reduce noise in the occupational environ-
ment to levels that meet existing hearing conservation
criteria. These industrial noise programs are conducted
through contracts, grants, and in-house research.
The NIOSH industrial noise programs are aimed toward
developing methods of modifying machinery, as well as
investigating alternative manufacturing processes. NIOSH
also provides industry with technical information relating
to noise.
The noise reduction efforts from FY 75 through FY 77
were for the most part directed at four industrial noise
sources: pneumatic tools, wood planers, textile-looms,
and welding and brazing operations. These studies iden-
tified noise sources, mechanisms of noise generation, and
methods of noise control. Of these, the principal effort
was directed toward textile noise problems.
Although NIOSH's textile noise reduction efforts have
achieved a number of accomplishments, the noise problem
has not been solved, and further research efforts are
required. NIOSH1s efforts so far have been directed at
source control, rather than path control with enclosures.
For example, noise reductions were obtained from design
modifications made on bobbins, from removal of vibrating
panels, and from the addition of mufflers. NIOSH has
also sponsored a symposium at which textile industry
representatives met to exchange information on noise
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problems and is publishing a noise control manual iden-
tifying case histories of textile noise control. Two
technical information manuals providing explicit data in
the general area of industrial noise control were also
published by NIOSH. The two publications, Compendium of
Materials for Noise Control and Industrial Noise Control
Manual, were widely distributed and have been well received
by industry noise control personnel. An update of the com-
pendium is planned and completion is scheduled in FY 78.
In FY 78, NIOSH is concentrating their noise control
technology RD&D efforts to the textile industry. The tex-
tile effort will be undertaken through their university
research grant program.
Appendix D identifies funding and provides brief
descriptions of projects conducted by HEW.
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4.4 DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
The Department of Defense (DOD) is the successor agency
to the National Military Establishment created by the
National Security Act of 1947 (61 Stat. 495). DOD was
established as an executive department of the Federal
Government by the National Security Act Amendments of 1949,
with the Secretary of Defense as its chief administrator (63
Stat. 578; 5 U.S.C. 101). The Act identified the Army,
Navy, and Air Force organizations as military departments
within DOD.
Environmental quality matters are coordinated through
the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Each of the mili-
tary departments is responsible to the Secretary for indi-
vidual environmental programs, including noise abatement and
control.
Machinery and construction noise RD&D efforts are
conducted to support mission needs such as protecting the
hearing of military personnel, avoiding detection in combat,
and reducing the noise impact of peacetime military opera-
tions on the surrounding communities.
The Departments of the Army and the Navy identified
machinery and construction noise research programs under-
way or planned within DOD. (Air Force programs lie pri-
marily within the noise effects and aviation areas, and
are identified in the appropriate Federal Interagency
Research Panel reports).
4.4.1 Department of the Army
Within the Department of the Army, the organizations
mainly involved in machinery and construction noise RD&D
are the Army Materiel Development and Readiness Command
(DARCOM) and the Army Corps of Engineers. Within DARCOM
the Mobility Equipment Research and Development Command
(MERADCOM) has the principal responsibility for DARCOM's
machinery and construction equipment noise RD&D work.
The Human Engineering Laboratory (HEL) also is engaged in
machinery and construction research. Within the Corps of
Engineers, the responsibility for machinery and construc-
tion noise lies with the Construction Engineering Research
Laboratory (CERL) where activities center on community
noise.
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MERADCOM's tasks are being conducted to reduce rna^
chinery operator exposure levels to comply with the sound
emission level requirements of Federal, State, local, and
foreign laws. The mission of HEL is to conduct basic and
applied research in human factors engineering, and to
provide direct design support to all materiel development
programs sponsored by DARCOM.
The CERL authority for machinery and construction
RD&D activity was established by the Office of the Chief
of Engineers in response to Corps requirements in the
areas of master planning, environmental quality, and archi-
tecture. Methods and criteria to determine and control
the impacts of noise from Army activities on military
installations are needed to comply with Army noise emission
criteria (DOD Instruction 4165.57 and TAG letter of 5
August 1974).
CERL is filling this need by a coordinated program
for solving problems in noise pollution and abatement
unique to Army installations (artillery, armor, helicop-
ters, and construction). The program will develop tools
for predicting and reducing noise levels in and adjacent
to military facilities. The tools will be used in master
planning, design, and assessment to locate and construct
facilities which emit minimum noise pollution to inhabi-
tants and the surrounding environment.
4.4.2 Department of the Navy
The Department of the Navy is extensively involved in
machinery RD&D noise control with their surface ship and
submarine fleet. This effort supports tactical mission
requirements, protects the hearing of personnel, and pro-
vides an acceptable living and work environment.
The Navy has a number of tactical mission needs with
respect to noise. Surface ships and submarines must
radiate a minimum amount of noise to avoid detection. In
addition, noise radiated from sources such as the ship's
structure, mechanical equipment, and propellers must not
interfere with sonar operations to detect an enemy presence.
Tactical mission needs also require that noise levels in
critical mission stations permit direct person to person
speech communication. For personnel living onboard ships,
noise levels must be low enough to safeguard hearing
during both work and non-work hours as well as to minimize
annoyance.
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Technical information and funding levels for the Navy
noise programs are for the most part classified.
An innumerable variety of noise sources and control
measures are embraced in the Navy's noise programs (e.g.,
structural vibration such as that from ship hulls, piping
systems, and propellers; electric motors; diesel engines;
pumps; ventilation systems; fans; gear drives; and elec-
tronic equipment. Methods of noise abatement use struc-
tural damping material, vibration and shock isolation sys-
tems, enclosures, silencers, as well as source control
through design modifications.
The few Navy noise projects for which information has
been released are identified in Appendix E. These programs
are being carried out by the Naval Sea Systems Command
(NAVSEA), the Naval Ship Engineering Command (NAVSEC), and
the David Taylor Naval Ship Research and Development Center
(DTNSRDC).
Appendix E identifies funding and provides brief
descriptions of projects conducted by DOD.
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4.5 DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
The Department of Commerce was designated by the
act of March 4, 1913 (37 Stat. 736; 15 U.S.C. 1501), which
reorganized the Department created February 14, 1903 (32
Stat. 825; 15 U.S.C. 1501). The mission of the Department
of Commerce is to foster, serve, and promote the nation's
economic development and technological advancement. This
is carried out through activities that encourage and assist
States, local organizations, and private industry.
The Department of Commerce is composed of the Office
of the Secretary, several Offices of Assistant Secretary,
and numerous operating units. Of these, only the National
Bureau of Standards (NBS) administered through the Office
of the Assistant Secretary for Science and Technology,
reported machinery and construction equipment noise RD&D
activities. NBS was established by PL 56-177, Organic
Act of 1901, March 3, 1901, and as amended by PL 81-619,
July 22, 1950. NBS was originally part of the Treasury
Department and was subsequently transferred to the Depart-
ment of Commerce. The 1950 amendment authorized the Secre-
tary of Commerce to undertake the following functions:
The custody, maintenance, and development of the
national standards of measurement, and the pro-
vision of means and methods for making measure-
ments consistent with those standards, including
the comparison of standards used in scientific
investigations, engineering, manufacturing,
commerce, and educational institutions with the
standards adopted or recognized by the govern-
ment
The determination of physical constants and prop-
erties of materials when such data are of great
importance to scientific or manufacturing interests
and are not to be obtained of sufficient accuracy
elsewhere
The development of methods for testing materials,
mechanisms, and structures and the testing of
materials, supplies, and equipment including
items purchased for use by government departments
and independent establishments
Cooperation with other governmental agencies
and with private organizations in the establish-
ment of standard practices incorporated in codes
and specifications
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Advisory service to government agencies on
scientific and technical problems
Invention and development of devices to serve
special needs, of the government.
NBS also has responsibilities mandated by and specifi-
cally mentioned in two other Acts: the Noise Control Act
of 1972 (PL 92-574) and the Consumer Product Safety Act
(PL 92-573) .
Under the Noise Control Act, the EPA Administrator is
authorized to:
"Conduct research and finance research by contract
with any person on the effects, measurement, and
control of noise, including but not limited to...
development of improved methods and standards for
measurement and monitoring of noise, in cooperation
with the National Bureau of Standards, Department
of Commerce...."
The Consumer Product Safety Act (PL 92-573) directs that:
"The (Consumer Product Safety) Commission shall,
to the maximum extent practicable, utilize the
resources and facilities of the National Bureau
of Standards, on a reimbursable basis, to perform
research and analyses related to risk of injury
associated with consumer products (including fire
and flammability risks), to develop test methods
to conduct studies and investigations and to
provide technical advice and assistance in
connection with the functions of the Commission."
At the present time, NBS does not conduct any machinery
and construction noise reduction programs. However, they
do conduct research on measurement procedures in this area,
including projects conducted under and supportive of inter-
agency agreements with other Federal agencies as well as
nongovernment organizations.
The objective of NBS's work on measurements of noise
emission from machinery and construction equipment is to
quantify the measurement uncertainties associated with
existing test methods and to conduct research to enable
improved measurement technology.
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NBS machinery and construction noise research performed
under reimbursable interagency agreements emphasizes the
determination of the adequacy of present standards for the
measurement of noise emissions. This determination consists
primarily of critical reviews of the sources of measurement
error and the conduct of experimental measurements using
existing NBS facilities and present measurement procedures.
These studies are intended to (1) indicate the magnitude of
measurement imprecision and systematically address the re-
quirements for improvements in the existing standards, and
(2) provide the scientific and technical basis for improve-
ments to those standards.
An element common to many areas in acoustic measure-
ments is the extensive role of voluntary standards, such
as those developed by the American Society of Testing and
Materials (ASTM), American National Standards Institute
(ANSI), and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers
(ASME). The extensive use of voluntary standards and their
incorporation into regulations and mandatory standards
highlights the significance of NBS's position in carrying
out a coordinated program in support of both voluntary and
mandatory standards.
A recurrent theme of present-day concern relative to
enforcement of noise emission standards is the adequacy of
techniques for specifying test site acoustical properties.
As the use of regulations becomes more widespread, accuracy
and precision of noise emission measurements become more
critical. Uncertainty in measurement requires a correspond-
ing increase in the margin manufacturers must allow between
the regulated limit and design levels and consequently an
increase in the cost of compliance. Significant variations
have been noted between measurements made at different
sites or at the same sites at different times. These
concerns indicate the increasing relevance of evaluating
present standards for the measurement of noise emissions
and of improved understanding of the associated measurement
uncertainties.
NBS has provided technical assistance to the Environ-
mental Protection Agency's Office of Noise Abatement and
Control in support of the development of regulations for
specific noise sources, including contributions to the
portable air compressor regulation. Additional efforts
have included evaluation of existing data bases and
measurement procedures for wheel and crawler tractors,
truck refrigeration units, and compactors. NBS is also
4-19
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continuing its support to EPA in the technical evaluation
of contractors' reports. In recognition of the need for
support of the technical basis for Federal, State, and
local regulations on noise emissions from a variety of
sources, NBS has supported research toward improvements
in procedures for the measurement of noise emissions.
Appendix F identifies funding and provides brief
descriptions of projects conducted by DOC.
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4.6 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
The Department of Transportation (DOT) was created
by the authority of the Department of Transportation Act
of 1966 (PL 89-670, October 15, 1966), in the interest
of the general welfare, economic growth, and national
stability to develop
"...national transportation policies and programs
conducive to the provision of fast, safe, efficient,
and convenient transportation at the lowest cost con-
sistent therewith and with other national objectives
including efficient utilization and conservation
of the nation's resources."
To accomplish these basic mission goals and other specific
Congressional mandates, each element of the Department is
expected to integrate noise control into its policy, pro-
gram criteria, and project requirements.
The machinery and construction noise RD&D programs of
the Department of Transportation are consistent with Section
4(a) of the Noise Control Act (PL 92-574, October 27, 1972)
which
"...authorizes and directs that Federal agencies
shall, to the fullest extent consistent with their
authority under Federal laws administered by them,
carry out the programs within their control in
such a manner as to further the policy ... to promote
an environment for all Americans free from noise
that jeopardizes their health or welfare..."
With respect to machinery and construction noise,
research is presently being carried out at the Secretarial
level by the Office of Noise Abatement and within the
Federal Highway Administration.
4.6.1 Office of Noise Abatement*
The Office of Noise Abatement (ONA) was established
to fulfill a mandate of the Department of Transportation
Act of 1966, which authorized the Secretary to:
Office of Noise Abatement was disestablished in FY 78.
4-21
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"...undertake research and development relating
to transportation, including noise abatement..."
The mission of DOT/ONA is:
To provide Department-level leadership and
direction in the development of DOT programs
for the abatement of environmental noise caused
by transportation systems
To provide policy guidance to, and coordination
among, the various DOT administrations and their
individual programs to assure the timely develop-
ment of effective Department policies and pro-
grams for the abatement of noise generated by all
modes of transportation
To provide liaison and coordination between
DOT and other Federal agencies
In addition to these responsibilities, ONA undertakes
a variety of noise RD&D programs in such areas as develop-
ment of analytical techniques, measurement and instrumen-
tation technology, noise control technology (including
development and demonstration testing support), and systems
analysis.
During the period covered by this report, ONA activi-
ties in machinery and construction noise RD&D were directed
toward reducing exhaust noise emissions from diesel engine
powered construction equipment. This project was an ex-
tension of achievements made in the various DOT surfcice
vehicle diesel engine noise reduction programs. The diesel
engine is one of the principal sources of noise at trans-
portation system construction sites. The study evaluated
the various technologies identified and developed for re-
ducing exhaust noise of truck diesels by applying the
technologies to construction equipment diesels.
4.6.2 Federal Highway Administration
Research programs for developing construction noise
and vibration criteria, impact prediction methodologies,
and abatement measures are currently underway within the
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Projects are funded
from either of two programs: (1) the Federally Coordinated
Program (FCP), which addresses problems of national interest,
or (2) the Highway Planning and Research (HP&R) Program,
which funds projects initiated by the States.
4-22
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Federally Coordinated Program (FCP). Based on specific
guidelines, the FCP appropriates funds for highway construc-
tion and associated research efforts. The legislative
mandates for the FCP derive initially from the Federal-Aid
Highway Act of 1954 (PL 83-350, May 6, 1954), Section
10(a), which authorizes and directs the Secretary:
"... in his discretion to engage in research on all
phases of highway construction, reconstruction,
modernization, development, design, maintenance,
safety...."
Subsequent legislation provided specific mandates in
the noise area. For example, the Federal-Aid Highway Act
of 1970 (PL 91-605, December 31, 1970), Section 136 (c)
authorizes and directs the Secretary to:
"...include in the highway research program...
studies to identify and measure, quantitatively
and qualitatively, those factors which relate to
economic, social, environmental, and other impacts
of highway projects."
Section 136(b) of this Act further authorizes and
directs the Secretary to:
"Not later than July 1, 1972...promulgate guidelines
designed to assure that possible adverse economic,
social, and environmental effects relating to any
proposed project on any Federal-aid system have been
fully considered in developing such project, and that
the final decisions on the project are made in the
best overall public interest, taking into consider-
ation the need for fast, safe, and efficient trans-
portation. .. and the costs of eliminating such adverse
effects and the following: (1) air, noise and water
pollution.... Such guidelines shall apply to all
proposed projects...approved by the Secretary after
the issuance of such guidelines."
The Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1973 (PL 93-87,
August 13, 1973), Section 114 authorizes and directs the
Secretary to:
"...not approve plans and specifications for any
Federal-aid system for which location approval has
not yet been secured unless he determines that such
plans and specifications include adequate measures
to implement the appropriate noise level standards."
4-23
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These broad legislative mandates require the FHWA to
identify adverse effects relating to highway projects and
to make reasonable efforts to mitigate the adverse effects.
Recognizing that noise from highway construction activities
can impact surrounding communities adversely and that mea-
sures are available to abate construction activity noise,
FHWA incorporated into Federal Highway Planning Manual
7-7-3, Procedures for Abatement of Highway Noise and Con-
struction Noise; three general requirements on construc-
tion noise:
"The following general steps are to be performed
for all Type IA, IB, and II projects after the
effective date of this directive.*
a. Identify land use or activities which may be
affected by noise from construction of the
highway. The identification is to be per-
formed during the project development studies.
b. Determine the measures which are needed in the
contract plans and specifications to minimize or
eliminate adverse construction noise impacts
to the community. This determination shall
include a weighing of the benefits achieved
and the overall adverse social, economic, and
environmental effects of the abatement measures.
c. Incorporate the needed abatement measures in
the contract plans and specifications."
In order to provide guidance in the area of construc-
tion noise measurement, prediction and abatement to high-
way officials, interested groups, and individuals who must
deal with construction noise during the various stages of
highway construction, FHWA initiated an in-house project
in 1976 to prepare a manual which would summarize the
state-of-the-art in construction noise measurement, pre-
diction, and abatement. In addition, FHWA sponsored a
workshop to develop long-range strategies for controlling
construction activity noise.
In the past, most Federal, State, and local efforts
have been directed toward highway traffic rather than
highway construction noise. FHWA plans to initiate a
Effective May 24, 1976.
4-24
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two-year joint research effort with EPA (starting in FY 78)
to define the noise environment at highway construction
sites and evaluate the effectiveness of various measures for
mitigating construction activity noise.
Highway Planning and Research (HP&R) Program. Section
151 of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1972 (PL 93-87,
August 13, 1973) authorizes HP&R funds
"Not to exceed 1% percentum of the sums apportioned
for each fiscal year beginning with fiscal year 1974
...shall be available for expenditure upon request
of the State Highway Department, with the approval
of the Secretary... for research and development,
necessary in connection with the planning, design,
construction, and maintenance of highways..."
These funds are available for solution of specific State
and local problems. FHWA assists in coordination of this
research, but does not use the control of Federal-aid
funds to control or unduly influence State or local research
programs.
HP&R funds have been utilized by the States of Cali-
fornia and Louisiana for RD&D programs associated with
construction activity noise, including the following:
Investigation of ground vibration at construc-
tion sites
Establishment of feasible noise limits for high-
way construction and maintenance equipment
Appendix G identifies funding and provides brief
descriptions of projects conducted by DOT.
4-25
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4.7 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) was created
by act of Congress approved May 15, 1862 (12 Stat. 387;
5 U.S.C. 511, 514, 516). The Department was made the
eighth executive department in the Federal government in
1889.
The USDA is directed by law to acquire and disseminate
information on agricultural subjects. To accomplish this
purpose, the Department functions in the areas of research,
conservation, and regulatory work. Machinery and construc-
tion noise programs are conducted within the USDA by the
Agricultural Research Service and the U.S. Forest Service
(USFS).
4.7.1 Agricultural Research Service
ARS was established by Secretary's Memorandum 1320,
Supplement 4, dated November 2, 1953. Its basic mission
is to provide the necessary knowledge and technology so
that farmers can produce efficiently, conserve the environ-
ment, and meet the food and fiber needs of the American
people. Research efforts are conducted in very close coop-
eration with the States, as well as other agencies in USDA,
other Federal agencies, industry, foundations, and private
groups.
Noise RD&D programs conducted under the ARS are aimed
at protecting the health and welfare of agricultural workers.
The research efforts are directed toward identifying noise
sources and developing feasible methods of reducing levels
associated with agricultural operations. Areas of investi-
gation include materials handling systems for cotton gins,
sawmill operations, dust collection systems, and agricultural
packing equipment.
4.7.2 U.S. Forest Service
USFS was created by the act of February 1, 1905 (33
Stat. 628; 16 U.S.C. 472), which transferred the Federal
forest reserves and the responsibility for their manage-
ment from the Department of the Interior to the Depart-
ment of Agriculture. USFS has the Federal responsibility
for national leadership in forestry. Toward this purpose,
it has adopted, among its objectives and policies, those
of protection and improvement of the quality of air, water,
4-27
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soil, natural beauty, and quality of the open space and
urban and community areas. Research programs are conducted
under the authority of the McSweeney-McNary Act of May 22,
1928 (45 Stat. 699; U.S.C. 581-5811), as amended and
supplemented.
Within the USFS, there are two laboratories undertaking
acoustics research. These are the Equipment Development
Center located in San Dimas, California and the Forest
Products Laboratory, located in Madison, Wisconsin.
The Equipment Development Center machinery and con-
struction noise RD&D efforts have been directed at develop-
ing noise control measures for specialized forest utilized
equipment having hearing hazards, such as fire fighting
equipment.
The Forest Products Laboratory is the Forest .Service's
national center for wood utilization research. Its staff
of over 100 scientists works to develop new and improved
techniques for efficient use of the nation's timber re-
sources.
Construction and upkeep of wood buildings consume
nearly % of the annual output of U.S. lumber, plywood, and
wood base building board industries. Research in light-
frame construction seeks new design methods for more effec-
tive coordination between performance goals and construc-
tion practice. In the light-frame construction program a
scientific effort of 7.5 man-years provides emphasis on
structural integrity, fire safety, acoustical control,
thermal efficiency, and durability. Acoustics is an
important part of the light-frame construction progrcim
since, for example, acoustical theory emphasizes high
weight, low stiffness, and decoupled construction which
is opposed to efficient mechanical design.
Noise control is a major problem in multi-family
dwellings. During FY 75-78, one senior scientist has been
working full time on noise transmission between dwelling
units. The total cost of a man-year for one scientist,
which includes technical, administrative, and other support
is currently about $100,000. All research work is done
in-house.
Appendix H identifies funding and provides brief
descriptions of projects conducted by USDA.
4-28
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4.8 AGENCY BIBLIOGRAPHIES
Department of the Interior
Alternate Conveyor Design for Mine Machinery, OFR 52-77, Bureau of
Mines, Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C., October 1976.
NTIS No. PB 265 151/AS
Burks, J.A., Advances in Noise Control of Underground Coal Mining
Equipment. Second Symposium on Underground Mining, Proc. NCA/BCR
Coal Conf. and Exposition, Louisville, Kentucky, October 19-21,
1976, pp. 253-264
Burks, J.A. and Sacks, H.K., Developments in the Control of Noise of
Mining Equipment. First Symposium on Underground Mining, Proc.
NCA/BCR Coal Conf. and Exposition, Louisville, Kentucky, October 21-23,
1975, V. 2, pp. 160-180
Coal Cleaning Plant Noise and its Control, OFR 44-74, Bureau of Mines,
Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C., May 1974. NTIS No. PB
235 852/AS
Evaluation of Wet Head Drilling Techniques, OFR 44-77, Bureau of Mines,
Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C., May 1976. NTIS No.
PB 264 997/AS
Noise Abatement in Mining Machinery, OFR 1-76, Bureau of Mines, Depart-
ment of the Interior, Washington, D.C., April 1975
Noise Control in Surface Mining Facilities, OFR 64-76, Bureau of
Mines, Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C., July 1975.
NTIS No. PB 253 257/AS
Noise Control of Stoper Drills, OFR 91-75, Bureau of Mines, Depart-
ment of the Interior, Washington, D.C., January 1975. NTIS No.
PB 246 381/AS
Noise of Diesel Powered Underground Mining Equipment: Impact,
Prediction, and Control, OFR 58-75, Bureau of Mines, Department
of the Interior, Washington, D.C., March 1975. NTIS No. PB 243
896/AS
Reducing the Operator Sound Level of Mining Service Vehicle—A
Demonstration Project, OFR 47-77, Bureau of Mines, Department of
the Interior, Washington, D.C., November 1975. NTIS No. PB 265
037/AS
4-29
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Noise Reduction of Conveyors Used in Underground Coal Mining Machinery,
OFR 109-77, Bureau of Mines, Department of the Interior, Washington,
D.C., December 1976. NTIS No. PB 267 787/AS
Noise Reduction of Jumbo Mounted Percussive Drills: Phase I, Noise
and Usage Survey, OFR 45-77, Bureau of Mines, Department of the
Interior, Washington, D.C., September 1976. NTIS No. PB 265 083/AS
Practical Reduction of Noise from Chutes and Screens in Coal Cleaning
Plants, OFR 59-77, Bureau of Mines, Department of the Interior,
Washington, D.C., December 1976. NTIS No. PB 265 344/AS
Summers, C.R., and Murphy, J.N., Pneumatic Drill Noise Abatement.
Proc. Tech. Program, Noisexpo, Nat. Noise and Ventilation Control
Conf., 1973, pp. 125-127
Ungar, E.E., and Sacks, H.K., Guidelines to Quieting Noise in
Preparation Plants. Coal Mining and Processing, V. 14, No. 7
July 1977, pp. 60-62, 64, 71
Ungar, E.E., and Sacks, H.K., Reducing Screen Noise in Coal Cleaning
Plants. Coal Mining and Processing, V. 14, No. 8, August 1977,
pp. 64, 65, 86, and 87
U.S. Bureau of Mines, Noise Control: Proceedings. Bureau of Mines
Technology Transfer Seminar, Pittsburgh, Pa., January 22, 1975.
BuMines 1C 8686, 1975, 108 pp.
Environmental Protection Agency
Information in Support of the Proposed Regulation for Truck-Mounted
Solid Waste Compactors, EPA 550/9-77-204, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., August 1977.
Measurement Methodology and Supporting Documentation for Portable
Air Compressor Noise, EPA 550/9-76-002, U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, Washington, D.C., January 1975. NTIS No. PB 748097.
Noise Emission Standards for Construction Equipment—Background
Document for Portable Air Compressors, EPA No. 550/9-76-004, U..S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., December 1975.
NITS No. PB 250430.
4-30
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Procedures for Estimating Sound Power from Measurements of Sound
Pressure, EPA 550/9-76-001, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Washington, D.C., July 1975.
Proposed Wheel and Crawler Tractor Noise Emission Regulation, EPA
550/9-77-250, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C.,
June 1977.
The Transfer Function of Quarry Blast Noise and Vibration into
Typical Residential Structures, EPA 550/9-77-351, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., February 1977.
University Noise Research, Proceedings of the EPA University Noise
Seminar, EPA Document 550/9-77-300, U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, Washington, D.C., October 18-20, 1976. NTIS No. PB 265114/9WP.
Department of Health, Education and Welfare
Compendium of Materials for Noise Control, HEW, NIOSH, Cincinnati,
Ohio, June 1975, GPO No. 017-033-00088-3.
Industrial Noise Control Manual, HEW, NIOSH, Cincinnati, Ohio, HEW
(NIOSH) Publication No. 75-183, June 1975
Noise Control Technology for Selective Woodworking Machinery, HEW,
NIOSH, Cincinnati, Ohio, NIOSH research grant No. OH00417-02,
December 1976
Punch Press Noise Reduction Demonstration, HEW, NIOSH, Cincinnati,
Ohio, NIOSH No. 00052611, September 1975
Department of Defense
Homans, B., McBryan, J., and Schomer, P.O., User Manual for the
Acquisition and Evaluation of Operational Blast Noise Data,
CERL-E42, Construction Engineering Research Laboratory, Champaign,
111., June 1974
Jones, R.S. and Anderson, D.W., Development of Universal Ducting
Envelopes for the S-280 Shelter, Technical Memorandum 2-75, U.S.A.
Human Engineering Laboratory, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., 1975
Schomer, P.O., et al., Cost Effectiveness of Alternate Noise
Reduction Methods for Construction of Family Housing, CERL-N3,
Construction Engineering Research Laboratory, Champaign, 111.,
July 1976
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Schomer, P.D., Predicting Community Response to Blast Noise, CERL-E17,
Construction Engineering Research Laboratory, Champaign, 111., December
1973
Schomer, P.D., Goff, R.J. and Little, L.M., The Statistics of Amplitude
and Spectrum of Blasts Propagated in the Atmosphere, CERL-N13, Construction
Engineering Research Laboratory, Champaign, 111., November 1976
Schomer, P.D. and Romans, B., Construction Noise: Specification, Control,
Measurement and Mitigation, CERL-E53, Construction Engineering Research
Laboratory, Champaign, 111., April 1975
Department of Commerce
Fuller, B.R., Leasure, W.A., Jr., and Pallett, D.S., An Evaluation and
Assessment of Existing Data and Procedures for the Measurement of Noise
From Truck Transport Refrigeration Units, NBSIR 75-964, National Bureau
of Standards, Washington, D.C., December 1975
Holmer, C.I., Measurement Methodology and Supporting Documentation for
Portable Air Compressor Noise, NBSIR 75-653 and EPA 550/8-76-002, National
Bureau of Standards, Washington, D.C., January 1975
Holmer, C.I., Procedures for Estimating Sound Power from Measurements of
Sound Pressure, NBSIR 75-652, National Bureau of Standards, Waishington,
D.C., July 1975
Leasure, W.A., Jr., An Evaluation and Assessment of Existing Data and
Procedures for the Measurement of Noise from Truck-Mounted Solid Waste
Compactors (letter report), National Bureau of Standards, Was?iington,
D.C., December 1975
Magrab, E.B. and Leasure, W.A., Jr., Research in Acoustics and Noise
Measurements at the National Bureau of Standards, in Proceedings of
Noise-Con 75, Noise Control Foundation, Poughkeepsie, New York,
September 1975
Pallett, D.S., Noise and the National Measurement System, in Proceedings
of Noise-Con 75, Noise Control Foundation, Poughkeepsie, New York,
September 1975
Quindry, T.L., An Evaluation and Assessment of Existing Data and
Procedures for the Measurement of Noise from Dozers and Loaders,
NBSIR 75-965, National Bureau of Standards, Washington, D.C., October
1975
Quindry, T.L., Standards on Noise Measurements, Rating Schemes, and
Definitions: A Compilation, NBS Special Publication (revised), National
Bureau of Standards, Washington, D.C., April 1976
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Department of Transportation
Reagan, J.A. , and Grant, C.A., Highway Construction Noise: Measure-
ment, Prediction and Mitigation, Special Report prepared by U.S.
Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, Washington,
D.C., May 1977
Report of 1977 Symposium on Highway Construction Noise, Report FHWA-
TST-77-211, U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Admini-
stration, Washington, D.C.
Schneichel, S., and Winnes, D., Noise Abatement Techniques for
Transportation Construction Equipment, Report DOT-TSC-OST-77-57,
U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C.
Walters, W.C., and Bokum, S.G., Ground Vibration Investigation at
Highway Construction Sites, Report No. 89, Louisiana Department of
Highways, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, June 1975
Department of Agriculture
Jones, R.E., Effects of Flanking and Test Environment on Lab Field
Correlation of Airborne Sound Insulation, Journal of the Acoustical
Society of America, 57(5): 1138-1149, 1975
Jones, R.E., Field Sound Insulation Evaluation for Two Auxiliary
Walls, USDA Forest Service Research paper No. FPL-244, Forest Products
Laboratory, Madison, WI, 1975
Jones, R.E., How to Accurately Predict the Sound Insulation of Parti-
tions, Sound and Vibration 10(6), pp 14-25, 1976: Errata Sound and
Vibration 10(11), p. 15, 1976
Jones, R.E., Insulation Evaluation of Load Bearing Sandwich Panels
for Housing, Forest Products Laboratory, Madison, WI., 1975 NTIS
No. PB 244-152/AS
Jones, R.E., Laboratory-Field Correlation for Airborne Sound
Transmission Through Party Walls, USDA Forest Service Research paper
No. FPL-240, Forest Products Laboratory, Madison, WI., 1975
Jones, R.E., Sound Insulation Evaluation of Several Single-Row-of-Wood
Stud Party Walls Under Laboratory and Field Conditions, USDA Forest
Service Research paper No. FPL-241, Forest Products Laboratory,
Madison, WI., 1975
Jones, R.E., Sound Insulation of High Performance Wood Frame Party
Partitions Under Laboratory and Field Conditions, USDA Forest Service
Research paper No. FPL-309, Forest Products Laboratory, Madison, WI.,
to be published April 1978
4-33
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APPENDIX A
SUMMARY OF MACHINERY AND CONSTRUCTION NOISE
FUNDING BY AGENCY AND INDEX TO
NOISE PROJECTS
A-l
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INDEX TO MACHINERY AND CONSTRUCTION
NOISE PROJECTS
CONSTRUCTION AND MINING EQUIPMENT
Page
Number
Earthmovers and Related Equipment
Noise Control of Surface Mining Equipment B-5
Demonstration of Bulldozer Noise Control B-6
830 MB Wheel Tractor E-4
Testing and Methodology of Tractors (Dozers)
and Loaders E-4, 1-5
Off-Highway and Stationary Equipment Noise Abatement G-5
Construction and Maintenance Equipment Noise Limits G-6
Earthmoving Equipment 1-5
Wheel and Crawler Tractors 1-6
Military Equipment
Noise Impact Mitigation Procedures for Army Facilities E-5
Noise Prediction Model and Contours E-5
Retrofit to Reduce Noise of 6K Rough Terrain Forklift E-6
Retrofit to Reduce Noise of 10K Rough Terrain Forklift E-6
Compressors
Warranties, Maintenance Instruction, and Life Effects
on Noise of Portable Air Compressors 1-6
Generators
Portable Electric Generator Noise Control E-6
A-5
-------
Page
Number
Specialized Mining Equipment
Alternate Conveyor Designs for Mine Machinery B-6
Abatement of Noise of Continuous Mining Machines B-6
Auger Miner Noise Control B-7
Mantrip Noise Control B-7
Noise Control of Underground Load-Haul-Dump
Machines B-7
Development of Quiet Conveyor System
for Mining Machinery B-8
Noise Control for Secondary Crushers B-8
Noise Abatement in Mining Machinery B-8
Noise Control in Surface Mining Facilities:
Chutes and Screens B-9
Demonstrating Noise Contol of a Coal
Preparation Plant B-9
Noise of Surface Coal Mining Equipment B-10
Retrofitting Noise Controls for Load-Haul-Dump
Machines B-10
Noise Control of Underground Diesel-Powered Mining
Equipment B-10
Effects of Undergound Environment and Loading Condtioris
on Noise Levels of Coal Mining Equipment B-ll
Study of Noise Sources in a Cross-Section of Taconite
Plant B-ll
Source Diagnosis and Abatement Techniques in Taconite
Plants B-ll
Definition and Correction of Noise in Coal Mines B-12
Assessment of Noise Control Techniques for Coal
Mining Machinery B-12
Noise Control of Wilcox Mark 20 Continuous Mining
Machine and Longwall Equipment B-13
A-6
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Page
Number
Noise Reduction of Auger Cutting Heads B-13
Noise Abatement of Preparation Plant Equipment B-14
Noise Abatement of Pneumatic Equipment B-14
Noise Study of Longwall Mining Systems B-15
Noise Control of Rod and Ball Mills B-15
Noise Control of Portable Crushing and Screening Plants B-15
Noise Control of Channel Burners B-16
Noise Control Mechanical Coal Cutting/Extraction Systems B-16
Development of Quiet Resilient Screens for Use in Coal
Preparation B-16
Noise Control of Surface Coal Augers B-17
Acoustic Radiation from Underground Auger Cutting Heads B-17
Implementation and Evaluation of Crusher Noise Control B-17
Design Concept for Crusher Noise Control B-18
Evaluation and Selection of Materials for Noise Control B-18
Flammability Evaluation of Noise Control Products for use
in Underground Mines B-18
Investigation of Direct Airborne Noise Generated
During Coal Cutting B-19
Engineering Noise Control Guidelines for the Coal
Mining Industry — Handbook B-19
Airblast Assessment and Control B-19
Evaluation of Existing Methodologies of Ground
Vibration Measurement B-20
Evaluation of Noise Measuring Devices of Airblast
Transients B-20
Control of Vibration and Blast Noise from Surface Coal
Mining B-20
Noise Control for Metallurgical Processing B-21
Noise Control of Ventilation Systems B-21
A-7
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Page
Number
General Construction Equipment
Non-Highway Construction Site Noise Control C-5, E-7
Highway Construction Site Noise Study C-5, G-6
Pneumatic Tool Noise D-5
Construction Site Noise Specifications and Control E-8
Highway Construction Noise: Measurement, Prediction,
and Mitigation G-6
Other Road Building Equipment 1-7
Construction Site Noise Model 1-7
Breakers and Drills
Development of Other Pneumatic Drills B-21
Development of Six Prototype Production Stoper Drills B-22
Evaluation of Wet-Head Drilling Techniques B-22
Noise Abatement Systems for Stoper Drills B-22
Design of Quiet Rockdrill Using Principles of the
Leavell Model D Pavement Breaker B-23
Application of Quiet Stoper Drill Technology to the
Redesign of Jumbo Drills B-23
Noise Control of Jumbo Mounted Drills B-23
Testing and Methodology of Paving Breakers E-8, 1-7
Pavement Breaker and Rock Drills 1-8
MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT
Woodworking Machinery
Wood Planer Noise Control D-5
Sawmill Noise Reduction H-5
A-8
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Page
Number
Textile Machinery
Coordinated Textile Industry Noise Reduction Program D-6
Metalworking Machinery
Control of Ultraviolet and Infrared Radiation, and Noise
for Physical Agents Associated with Welding and Brazing D-6
Metal Fabrication Noise Control D-7
Other Industrial Equipment
Occupational Noise Reduction in Industrial Plants C-6
Noise Control in Shipyards C-6, E-9
Update of Compendium of Noise Control Materials D-7
Industrial Noise Control Case Histories D-7
Noise Control in Hydroelectric Power Houses E-9
Development of Universal Ducting Envelopes for
S-280 Shelter E-9
Military Shipboard Equipment
Surface Ship Equipment Silencing E-10
Aircraft Carrier CORD Development Program E-10
Development of Document: Ship Noise Control Devices —
Their Use, Maintenance, Inspection and Replacement E-ll
Hydrofoil Auxiliary Machinery Development E-ll
Silencing of Combatant Craft and Standard Boats E-12
ENGINE TECHNOLOGY AND MACHINE PARTS
Engines
Internal Combustion Engine C-7
Specialty Truck Components
Truck-Mounted Compactors and Refrigeration Units 1-8
A-9
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Page
Number
CONSUMER PRODUCTS
Tools
Chainsaws 1-9
Lawnmowers 1-9
Appliances
Air Conditioners 1-10
AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY
Cotton Ginning Machinery Noise Reduction H-5
Abatement and Control of Noise Associated with
Agricultural Processes H-6
Materials Handling and Pollution Control at Gins H-6
Forest Service Equipment Noise Reduction H-6
ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES
Building Acoustics
Acoustical Specifications for Building Noise Control E-12
Noise Measurements in Buildings F-5
Noise Control and Privacy in Multi-Family Dwellings H-7
Impact and Vibration
Quarry Blast Noise and Vibration C-8
Ground Vibration at Highway Construction Site G-8
Physical Acoustics
Acoustic Properties of Wood H-8
Noise Transmission Through Wooded Areas H-9
A-10
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Page
Number
Measurement and Methodology
Temporal Sampling C-8
Noise Monitoring by Analog Microsampling Techniques C-9
Hydraulic (Fluid Power) System Noise Studies E-13
Noise Monitoring E-13
Sampling Strategies E-13
Noise Emission Measurements F-6
Environmental Noise Measurements F-7, 1-10
A-ll
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APPENDIX B
DEPARTMENT OF
THE INTERIOR
RD&D PROGRAMS
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B-3
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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
The funding for FY 76 includes the transition quarter (July 1,
1976 to September 30, 1976).
CONSTRUCTION AND MINING EQUIPMENT
Earthmovers and Related Equipment
Noise Control of Surface Mining Equipment
The objective of this project was to reduce the noise
emitted by surface mining equipment including dozers, front
end loaders, trucks, and scrapers without seriously affecting
efficiency. Noise control measures for mobile mining equip-
ment included the following:
Mufflers to reduce engine exhaust noise
Soundproof cabs; purchased if available or
individually designed if not available
Noise-reducing enclosures in the engine compartment
Vibration isolation of operator's cab, engine, and
drive train
New quieter machine designs developed in coopera-
tion with equipment manufacturers.
Sponsor: DOI/Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
9 10 22
B-5
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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Demonstration of Bulldozer Noise Control
This project will demonstrate the feasibility of reduc-
ing bulldozer noise levels to less than 90 dB. Two tracked
dozers with engine ratings of 150 hp or greater will be
selected and tested. Scheduled completion date is November
1978.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
142
Specialized Mining Equipment
Alternate Conveyor Designs for Mine Machinery
The purpose of this development and testing project was
to develop new concepts in quiet conveyors suitable for con-
tinuous miners or loading machines, incorporate new designs
into a prototype conveyor system, and evaluate its performance.
Completed November 1976.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Foster-Miller Assoc. Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
167 20 52
Abatement of Noise of Continuous Mining Machines
After the major noise sources of a continuous miner
had been defined, a development and testing project was under-
taken to develop corrective measures to reduce operating
noise levels to 90 dB or less. The corrective measures are
to be implemented on a continuous miner for field evaluation
of their effectiveness. The scheduled completion date is
October 1978; additional work on quieting continuous miners
is projected through FY 81.
B-6
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Bolt Beranek & Newman, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
162 71 91
Auger Miner Noise Control
A project was undertaken to develop noise abatement
methods that can be applied in-mine to the auger-type mining
machine. Implementation of noise control features should
result in a field noise level of 90 dB or less for the auger
miner. The scheduled completion date for the applied re-
search effort is February 1978. Additional work on quieting
augers is projected to continue through FY 80.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Donaldson Co., Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
168 18
Mantrip Noise Control
A project was undertaken to develop noise control tech-
niques for reduction of noise in mantrip vehicles consistent
with state-of-the-art technology. The goal for noise emission
level is 85 dB. The scheduled completion date is July 1978.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Bolt Beranek & Newman, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
105 28
Noise Control of Underground Load-Haul-Dump Machines
A project was undertaken to develop a noise control
package for an underground load-haul-dump machine. Completed
December 1977. Additional work, including field demonstra-
tions, is projected to continue through FY 80.
B-7
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Bolt Beranek & Newman, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
78 24
Development of Quiet Conveyor System for Mining Machinery
In conjunction with the Jeffrey Mining Machinery Com-
pany, the contractor undertook a development project to
determine the noise sources of the conveyor system used on a
Model 120 Heliminer. Noise control techniques were developed
and applied and the results measured. The goal was a con-
veyor system with noise emission levels of 90 dB or less that
is practical from a manufacturer's and user's standpoint. The
completion date was November 1976.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Bolt Beranek & Newman, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
78 38
Noise Control for Secondary Crushers
Two applied research contracts were let to develop noise
control techniques for secondary crushers in taconite plants.
Enclosures were designed under both contracts. The effective-
ness of one of the enclosures is to be demonstrated by in-
stallation in an operating plant (done under separate con-
tract) .
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Industrial Acoustics Co.; Aerophysics Co.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
65
Noise Abatement in Mining Machinery
A development and testing project was undertaken to
define the noise sources from bolters, loaders, and contin-
uous miners and assess in-mine corrective measures to reduce
operating exposure to noise levels of 90 dB. The proposed
B-!
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
measures were experimentally evaluated for effectiveness on
a loader, a continuous miner, and a rotary roof bolter. The
output of the project was a report describing in detail the
three machines selected, the noise sources, the corrective
measures applied, and the results from testing the modified
machines in a mine for one month. Completion date was
July 1975.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Apt, Bramer, Conrad, & Assoc., Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
27 5
Noise Control in Surface Mining Facilities: Chutes and Screens
An applied research project was undertaken to develop
economical retrofit methods for control of noise generated
by chutes and screens and to demonstrate their wearability,
utility, and noise reduction under field conditions.
Completion date was March 1977.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Bolt Beranek & Newman, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
126 25
Demonstrating Noise Control of a Coal Preparation Plant
A demonstration project was undertaken, the objective
of which was to apply all available noise control technology
to completely treat a coal preparation plant with the goal
of reducing noise levels to 90 dB or less. Plant has been
brought into compliance. Contract has been extended to
evaluate reliability, maintenance, and cost factors of the
noise abatement techniques.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Bolt Beranek & Newman, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
129 17 86
B-9
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Noise of Surface Coal Mining Equipment
A project was undertaken to determine the number of
machines utilized in surface coal mines, their noise levels,
and the extent of workers' exposures to these machines; to
identify the noise generating mechanisms associated with
surface machines and to recommend cost-effective noise con-
trol techniques. Survey and census work were completed June
1977. Work on developing abatement measures is continuing.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Bolt Beranek & Newman, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
156 8
Retrofitting Noise Controls for Load-Haul-Dump Machines
The objective is to determine the major sources of noise
of a typical LHD (load-haul-dump) machine and to apply noise
control techniques to quiet these sources. Results will be
verified by conducting underground tests. The investigation
is to be conducted in cooperation with a major LHD manufactur-
ing company with a design control of 90 dB.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Noise Control of Underground Diesel-Powered Mining Equipment
An applied research project was undertaken to determine
the nature and extent of noise exposure caused by underground
diesel-powered equipment and to identify specific sources
and possible controls. The completion date was June L976.
Funding is not disclosable because of contract procurement pro-
cedures.
B-10
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Bolt Beranek & Newman, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
69 41
Effect of Underground Environment and Loading Conditions on
Noise Levels of Coal Mining Equipment
An applied research project was undertaken to determine
correction factors for the effect of load conditions on mine
machinery noise levels and to assess the method developed
under BOM contract, Noise of Diesel-Powered Underground Mining
Equipment, for predicting the increase in noise level for
machines located in the underground coal mining environment.
The scheduled completion date is June 1978.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Donaldson Co., Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
103 20
Study of Noise Sources in a Cross-Section of Taconite Plants
The objective of this applied research project was to
conduct plant investigations of a representative cross-section
of taconite mills to determine the magnitude and nature of
the noise sources of the various processes. Completed in
December 1977.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Donley, Miller, & Nowikas
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
66 15
Source Diagnosis and Abatement Techniques in Taconite Plants
An applied research project was initiated to diagnose
noise sources in taconite plants, develop noise control mea-
sures, assess the impact of these measures from a technical
and economic standpoint, and analyze the arc-air gouger
B-I1
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
noise problem. This study is an amplification of the pre-
vious study (Donley, Miller & Nowikas).
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Bolt Beranek & Newman, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
93
Definition and Correction of Noise in Coal Mines
The objective of this applied research project was to
define the noise problems of various types of mining opera-
tions, correct or abate such problems, devise instrumentation
to measure their nature, and develop interim personal protec-
tion. The completion date was September 1976.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
140 154 147
Assessment of Noise Control Techniques for Coal Mining
Machinery
The objective of this in-house reasearch project is to
assess noise problems associated with mining equipment, apply
available technology, and evaluate instrumentation for the
accurate measurement of worker noise exposure. The work is
continuing.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
93 105
B-12
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Noise Control of Wilcox Mark 20 Continuous Mining Machine
and Longwall Equipment
A cooperative project was undertaken with the manufacturer
of the Wilcox Mark 20 continuous mining machine in an exten-
sive noise abatement program. This included determining
specific noise generators on this equipment and applying
commercially available materials in conjunction with known
noise control techniques. Subsequent surveys in a mining
environment during actual operations have indicated distinct
improvement. This information is to be transferred to the
equipment manufacturers and equipment owners. Similar noise
control techniques may be incorporated into newly manufactured
equipment. A series of investigating surveys on longwall
mining equipment has been conducted to determine noise
levels.
Sponsor: DOI/Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
12 30 38 34
Noise Reduction of Auger Cutting Heads
The objective of this program is to reduce the noise
produced by auger miner cutting heads without significantly
reducing cutting efficiency. Noise emanating from the auger
cutting heads of a Wilcox continuous miner has been reduced
by incorporation of damping material plus a metal wear strip
on the heads. Recommendations are being made to the auger
head manufacturer for prototype installation of materials.
After modification, the augers will be evaluated underground
during mining to determine effectiveness of the noise control
measures.
Sponsor: DOI/Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
2 6 13 18
B-13
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Noise Abatement of Preparation Plant Equipment
A program was undertaken to reduce the noise emitted
by preparation plant equipment, including screens, crushers,
dryers, and car shakers. The following techniques were in-
cluded in the study:
Installation of worker enclosures
Utilizing materials for vibration isolation,
vibration damping, and sound absorption
Introducing new, quieter machine designs in co-
operation with manufacturers.
Where retrofit design and installation are feasible, these
will be implemented.
Sponsor: DOI/Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
7 10 21 26
Noise Abatement of Pneumatic Equipment
Noise surveys in underground coal mines showed the
pneumatic stoper (drill) to be the worst noise offender.
The objective of this project was to reduce the noise emitted
by drills by application of acoustical materials and mufflers.
Jumbo mounted drills in metal and nonmetal mines and shaft
and slope sinking operations also result in excessive levels
of exposure. Noise control activity included evaluation of
materials that can be used to fabricate muffling systems.
Field evaluations included monitoring of effectiveness of
hardware developed by various companies.
Sponsor: DOI/Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
16 19 20 16
B-14
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Noise Study of Longwall Mining Systems
Definition of the noise sources associated with Longwall
mining systems and assessment of the feasibility of abating
the sources identified. The study will involve a survey of
at least 10 longwall mining systems using shears or plows.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Noise Control of Rod and Ball Mills
Demonstrate noise abatement techniques for rod and ball
mills. The effectiveness and practicality of noise abatement
techniques proposed under previous contracts will be
evaluated.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Noise Control of Portable Crushing and Screening Plants
Demonstrate noise control techniques for portable crush-
ing and screening plants. Design developed under previous
contracts will be implemented and tested.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Project funding is not disclosable because of contract procurement
procedures.
B-15
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Noise Control of Channel Burners
Investigate the noise generating mechanisms of channel
burners to determine if feasible engineering noise control
techniques exist or can be developed.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Noise Control of Mechanical Coal Cutting/Extraction Systems
This project will characterize the noise generating
mechanisms and parameters associated with cutting of coal
at the coal/machine interface, and will develop techniques
to reduce or eliminate the sources identified through machine
redesign. This base information is needed before new extrac-
tion techniques can be developed to minimize noise presently
inherent in coal extraction.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Development of Quiet Resilient Screens for Use in Coal Prep-
aration
Develop quiet resilient deck for coal screening and
demonstrate durability and acoustical effectiveness under
production conditions. The performance of the screens
chosen will be demonstrated for a one year period to determine
their acceptability.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Project funding is not disclosable because of contract procure-
ment procedures.
B-16
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Noise Control of Surface Coal Augers
Develop feasible engineering controls that will reduce
the noise emanating from surface coal augering equipment.
Noise source diagnosis will be conducted, cost-effective
durable noise control techniques will be investigated, and
a field manual describing the abatement principles and im-
plementation techniques will be prepared.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Acoustic Radiation from Underground Auger Cutting Heads
Define the acoustic radiation characteristics of coal
cutting augers used underground. A combined field test and
laboratory effort will be conducted. The study is confined
to assessing techniques that can be implemented on a retrofit
basis.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Implementation and Evaluation of Crusher Noise Control
This task will demonstrate noise control techniques
for secondary crushers. The effectiveness and practicality
of noise abatement techniques developed under a previous con-
tract will be evaluated.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Project funding is not disclosable because of contract procurement
procedures.
B-17
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Design Concept for Crusher Noise Control
Investigation of the mechanisms of noise generation in
secondary crushers will be accomplished to determine if noise
control techniques can be applied to the basic machine design.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Evaluation and Selection of Materials for Noise Control
Determine the extent of application and acoustical ef-
fectiveness of commercially available acoustic materials.
Materials will be tested under difficult environmental condi-
tions to assess their utility and acceptability for noise
control applications in the coal mining industry.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Flammability Evaluation of Noise Control Products for Use
in Underground Mines
The purpose of this study is to identify those noise
and vibration reduction materials that have potential use in
the noise control of underground mining equipment. One hundred
materials are to be selected and tested against flammability
standards and toxicity criteria. Scheduled completion date
is July 1978.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: IIT Research Institute
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
55
Project funding is not disclosable because of contract procurement
procedures.
B-18
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Investigation of Direct Airborne Noise Generated During Coal
Cutting
This project will conduct a preliminary investigation
of noise generation associated with coal breakage for the
purpose of defining a comprehensive RD&D program to minimize
such noise. The investigation will better define and charac-
terize the physical/acoustical phenomenon associated with
coal breakage and identify the principal cutting parameters
affecting the noise. Scheduled completion date is September
1978.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Wyle Laboratories
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
124 *
Engineering Noise Control Guidelines for the Coal Mining
Industry—Handbook
A noise control handbook will be developed for the coal
mining industry that provides guidelines for the selection,
design and implementation of effective abatement methods for
mine machinery noise.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Booz, Allen Applied Research
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
91 30 *
Airblast Assessment and Control
Determine the effect on humans and structures of air-
blast overpressures from surface mine blasting. Field test
data will be used to examine the relative effects of air-
blast and ground vibrations as well as various airblast
characteristics.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
149 149 146 159
Project funding is not disclosable because of contract procurement
procedures.
B-19
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Evaluation of Existing Methodologies of Ground Vibration
Measurement
Determine which parameters of ground motion from blast-
ing relate to structural damages and how best to measure these
parameters. Existing instrumentation, methods, and measure-
ment criteria will be evaluated to produce a standardized
measurement system. Completed September 1977.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
43
Evaluation of Noise Measuring Devices of Airblast Transients
Examine the techniques for the measurement of blast noise
overpressures and evaluate the performance of commercially
available instrumentation for measuring impulsive sound
levels from production blasting. Completed September 1977.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
43
Control of Vibration and Blast Noise from Surface Coal Mining
Determine the extent of adverse environmental effects
and ground vibration from blasting in large scale surface
coal mines. Develop blasting techniques to minimize these
effects.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Wiss, Janney and Associates
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
366 196
B-20
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Noise Control for Metallurgical Processing
Reduce the noise generated by equipment used in metal
forming, mining, or construction operations through utiliza-
tion or development of damping alloys and metallic composites.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
110 194 341 158
Noise Control of Ventilation Systems
Mine ventilation systems can produce noise levels that
affect people in nearby areas. The objective of this project
is to develop and apply noise control techniques for surface
and underground ventilation systems. Commercially available
silencing systems have been applied to underground and sur-
face ventilating fans, and their effectiveness has been
evaluated.
Sponsor: DOI/Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration
Investigator: Not cited
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
4 5 15
Breakers and Drills
Development of Other Pneumatic Drills
The object of this project is to develop new drill
designs and/or modifications to existing drill designs that
will result in an overall drill noise level of 90 dB or less
without degrading performance of the original stoper drill.
Development research completed in April 1977.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Ivor Hawkes Associates
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
90 32 16
B-21
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Development of Six Prototype Production Stoper Drills
The objective is to fabricate six production prototype
drills using the quiet drill techniques developed earlier
under Contract JO155099 including the drills steel abatement
systems. Delivery of the six drills is scheduled for October
1978. These drills are to be deployed in various coal mines
and evaluated for a period of six months.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Ivor Hawkes Associates
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
134
Evaluation of Wet-Head Drilling Techniques
The use of a wet-head drilling system was tested and
evaluated on both percussive and rotary type roof bolting
drills. System parameters to be studied included noise
level, efficiency, cost, and safety. The results of this
initial investigation will provide a basis for continuing
research into alternative drilling techniques for noise con-
trol. Project was completed.
Sponsor: Bureau of Mines
Investigator: FMC Corporation
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
33
Noise Abatement Systems for Stoper Drills
The objective of this demonstration and testing project
was to fabricate and install on Government-furnished drills
two noise abatement systems developed under a previous con-
tract. Project has been completed.
Sponsor: Bureau of Mines
Investigator: USS Engineers and Consultants
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
7
B-22
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
Design of Quiet Rock Drill Using Principles of the Leavell
Model D Pavement Breaker
A project was undertaken to conduct an engineering study
to assess the feasibility of using the principles embodied in
the Leavell Model D breaker to design a quiet drill unit with
the drilling performance of a stoper/sinker drill used in
underground mining. The applied research was completed in
August 1977. Continuing work on construction and testing of
prototype and application of principles to larger drills is
projected to extend into Fiscal Year 1982.
Sponsor: Bureau of Mines
Investigator: VAST Corporation
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
57 1
Application of Quiet Stoper Drill Technology to the Redesign
of Jumbo Drills
Develop a quiet jumbo-mounted drill through redesign by
using the noise abatement concepts incorporated in the design
of the quiet stoper from a previous contract. All available
noise control technology is to be integrated into the redesign
of a typical jumbo drill. Redesign and fabrication of a pro-
totype will be followed by field assessment of its long-term
noise level, drilling efficiency, and other operating param-
eters.
Sponsor: DOI/Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
*
Noise Control of Jumbo Mounted Drills
A development and testing project was conducted to in-
vestigate a cross-section of jumbo mounted drills to develop
and assess corrective measures for noise control, and to
Project funding is not disclosable because of contract procurement
procedures.
B-23
-------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Continued)
demonstrate the performance of selected techniques. The
design goal is to reduce noise levels to achieve a noise
exposure index of less than one over the course of an 8-hour
shift for the drill operator and nearby personnel. The
scheduled completion date is June 1978.
Sponsor: Bureau of Mines
Investigator: Bolt Beranek & Newman, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
92 5
B-24
-------
APPENDIX C
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
RD&D PROGRAMS
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Funding for FY 76 includes the transition quarter (July 1, 1976
to September 30, 1976). Funding cited for FY 77 and FY 78 includes
estimates. Projects for FY 78 have not been finalized.
CONSTRUCTION AND MINING EQUIPMENT
General Construction Equipment
Non-Highway Construction Site Noise Control
This program, conducted under an interagency agreement
with the Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL)
of the Army Corps of Engineers will demonstrate the cost
effectiveness and practicability of applying construction
noise reduction techniques. Under this program a DOD con-
struction site will be selected as the demonstration site
for this program, a test plan will be developed, the most
promising and applicable noise reduction techniques will be
identified, and the demonstration program will be carried out.
Funding shown represents EPA portion only.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control and Army/
CERL
Investigator: CERL
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000) : 1975 1976 1977 1978
50
Highway Construction Site Noise Study
This three-part program is to be conducted under an in-
teragency agreement with DOT/Federal Highway Administration
(FHWA) to support ongoing FHWA programs related to abatement
of highway construction noise. The three program parts are:
Use field data to develop and validate a highway
noise prediction model
C-5
-------
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (Continued)
Demonstrate no less than three highway construction
noise abatement measures
Estimate national exposure to highway construction
on present and planned Federal aid highway construc-
tion projects
Funding shown represents EPA portion only.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control and
DOT/FHWA
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
100
MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT
Other Industrial Equipment
Occupational Noise Reduction in Industrial Plants
Under this proposed program two occupational noise re-
duction demonstration programs will be funded under inter-
agency agreement with two other government facilities. The
agencies being considered are HEW/NIOSH, DOC/NBS, and the
Government Printing office.
Two programs are being initiated in recognition of the
need to reduce occupational noise to protect industrial
workers from hearing loss. These two programs will:
Support OSHA's regulatory actions by demonstrating
the feasibility of noise exposure reduction methods
Provide detailed actual economic and other impact
information associated with noise control
Identify areas where technological advances are
needed
Provide leadership for private industry.
C-6
-------
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (Continued)
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
50
Noise Control in Shipyards
This study, conducted under an interagency agreement with
the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), will identify occupa-
tional noise hazards in shipyards, design noise control mea-
sures where the technology is sufficiently developed, demon-
strate these noise control measures, and identify areas where
additional noise control research is required. Funding levels
reported represent EPA portion of funding only.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control and Navy/
NAVSEA
Investigator: Not cited
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
75
ENGINE TECHNOLOGY AND MACHINE PARTS
Engine
Internal Combustion Engine
This program will advance noise control state-of-the-art
and demonstrate noise reduction techniques applicable to in-
ternal combustion engines (gas turbines are excluded). In-
cluded are diesel, gasoline, and rotary engines. Engines
powering such products as small industrial compressors, auto-
mobiles, trucks, marine vessels, locomotives, lawn mowers,
chain saws, and tractors are to be considered. Only existing
engine concepts will be utilized. The work will focus on
methods of adjusting or modifying structure, combustion pro-
cess, and mechanical design of power producing parts.
C-7
-------
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (Continued)
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Not specified
Fiscal Year Funding* ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
106 81
ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES
Impact and Vibration
Quarry Blast Noise and Vibration
An experimental program was conducted to determine the
mathematical transfer functions relating quarry blast noise
and vibration with building structural response. Four dis-
tinct noise and vibration signals were produced inside: nearby
dwellings from outdoor dynamite blasts. Results indicated
that, due to resonances excited within the dwellings, the
noise and vibration excitation was greater inside the dwellings
than outside. A report was issued in February 1977.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Kamperman Associates
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
50
Measurement and Methodology
Temporal Sampling
Studies are underway to determine the most accurate
temporal sampling techniques for the measurement of over
The internal combustion engine project contributes to both the
surface transportation and the machinery and construction areas.
The project is identified both in this report and the surface
transportation noise report with proportionate funding. Total
FY 77 and 78 funding levels are $425K and $325K respectively.
Total estimated funding for the program is 2.25 million dollars.
C-i
-------
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (Continued)
twenty stationary and non-stationary noise sources with
fluctuating levels and varying time histories. These studies
will determine the degree of error that will be incurred in
the use of different sampling techniques. The noise sources
studied included construction equipment, trains, buses, car
crushers, car washes, foundries, refrigeration units, batch-
ing plants, and cement mixers. The results of these studies
will be incorporated in a manual on community noise monitor-
ing.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Not cited
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
9 12 12 10
Noise Monitoring by Analog Microsampling Techniques
This project investigated the feasibility of using
analog microsampling techniques to identify noise source.
Analog microsampling refers to the intermittent recording of
an analog acoustic signal as a technique for sampling the
environment. Analog tape recordings of various noise en-
vironments were used to investigate various microsampling
rates and times to evaluate the accuracy associated with
noise source recognition by humans for several types of noise,
types of microsampling, and kinds of noise descriptors.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Southern Methodist University
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
12
C-9
-------
-------
APPENDIX D
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE
RD&D PROGRAMS
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
Funding for FY 76 includes the transition quarter (July 1, 1976
to September 30, 1976). Funding cited for FY 77 and FY 78 includes
estimates. Projects for FY 78 have not been finalized.
CONSTRUCTION AND MINING EQUIPMENT
General Construction Equipment
Pneumatic Tool Noise
Research is being conducted on pneumatic tools to obtain
data on noise emissions and state-of-the-art of noise controls.
This task was completed in October 1977. A report is sched-
uled for April 1978.
Sponsor: HEW/NIOSH
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
50
MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT
Woodworking Machinery
Wood Planer Noise Control
An experimental rig that included a compact wood plane
enclosure to suppress board vibration in both the "in-feed"
and "out-feed" operation was developed. Investigator of
aerodynamic planer noise was approached by analytical studies
of the parameters connected with rotating cutterheads isolated
from the machine. Such factors as blade geometry, speed, air
flow, and air flow pathway were investigated. The results of
this study were applied to noise suppression devices and
methodology utilized in woodworking machinery throughout the
furniture industry.
D-5
-------
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE (Continued)
Sponsor: HEW/NIOSH
Investigator: University of North Carolina
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
39
Textile Machinery
Coordinated Textile Industry Noise Reduction Program
The general objective of the program is to ascertain,
and develop where necessary, information needed by the textile
industry to facilitate maximum possible workplace noise re-
ductions, thus aiding the industry in achieving compliance with
noise standards of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.
Specifically, the program includes the collection of rioi.se
control case histories from the textile industry, the evalua-
tion of effective noise control measures, the conduct of a
noise control research program, the publishing of bulletins
and papers, and the compilation of a textile industry noise
control manual.
Sponsor: HEW/NIOSH
Investigator: University of North Carolina
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
100 144 125 125
Metalworking Machinery
Control of Ultraviolet and Infrared Radiation, and Noise for
Physical Agents Associated with Welding and Brazing
This project will incorporate in-house research to pro-
vide engineering control data for physical agents associated
with welding and brazing operations and delineate gaps in
current control technology. This research will concentrate
on controls for ultraviolet and infrared radiation, and noise.
The report is scheduled for completion by September 1978.
D-6
-------
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE (Continued)
Sponsor: HEW/NIOSH
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
7
Metal Fabrication Noise Control
This project will determine the direction of future
NIOSH noise control research in the metal forming industry.
Sponsor: HEW/NIOSH
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
10
Other Industrial Equipment
Update of Compendium of Noise Control Materials
A contract will be developed and awarded to update the
recently published NIOSH publication, Compendium of_ Materials
for Noise Control. This research is required because the
increase in concern for noise control has greatly increased
the materials available for noise control. This updated re-
port will provide noise control engineers with the latest
available information on noise control materials. Final
report is due by the fourth quarter of FY 78.
Sponsor: HEW/NIOSH
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
50
Industrial Noise Control Case Histories
A contract was developed and awarded in July 1976 for
the collection of industrial noise control case histories.
Approximately twenty unique case histories are being obtained.
Completion is scheduled for June 1978.
D-7
-------
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE (Continued)
Sponsor: NIOSH
Investigator: Not cited
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
35 15
D-i
-------
APPENDIX E
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
RD&D PROGRAMS
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-------
-------
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Funding for FY 76 includes the transition quarter (July 1, 1976
to September 30, 1976). Funding cited for FY 77 and FY 78 includes
estimates. Projects for FY 78 have not been finalized.
CONSTRUCTION AND MINING EQUIPMENT
Earthmovers and Related Equipment
830 MB Wheel Tractor
The objective of this project is to reduce operator noise
exposure levels to safe limits of 85 dB and to show the fea-
sibility of fielding noise-reduced machines with and without
cabs. Approximately $1.2 million will be spent on retrofit-
ting for existing equipment through FY 78. The estimated
completion date for retrofit is October 1979.
Sponsor: MERADCOM
Investigator: Not Cited
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
40 19 16
Testing and Methodology of Tractors (Dozers) and Loaders
This study is being conducted under an interagency
agreement with EPA. It was initiated as a prerequisite to the
promulgation of noise emission regulations on dozers and
loaders, which have been identified as major noise sources.
The objective of this project is to find a representative test
methodology for regulation of environmental noise emitted by
loaders and tractors (dozers) during steady-state and duty-
cycle operation. Other objectives include the identification
of major noise sources and the estimation of possible noise
emission reduction.
E-5
-------
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (Continued)
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Army/MERADCOM
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
Military Equipment
Noise Impact Mitigation Procedures for Army Facilities
This project develops means to reduce noise impact of
military operations (blast, helicopter, fixed-wing aircraft,
mobile sources, and fixed sources) on military facilities and
on the civilian community. A manual will be prepared that
addresses methods and procedures for noise control. The
funding levels reported below represent an estimate of the
portion of the project that addresses blast noise. See also
the Aircraft Noise RT&D and Surface Transportation Noise
RD&D Reports.
Sponsor: CERL
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
44 58
Noise Prediction Model and Contours
This ongoing program is to develop methods to quantita-
tively predict the noise pollution impact of blast, helicop-
ter, fixed-wing aircraft, mobile sources, and fixed sources
for use by Army facilities and district engineering personnel.
Army installations are currently using first-generation com-
puter programs for master planning. The funding reported
below represents the portion of the project that addresses
blast noise. See also the Aviation Noise RT&D and Noise
Effects reports.
Funding was provided by EPA and was $5K, $10K and $10K for
FY 76 through FY 78 respectively.
E-6
-------
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (Continued)
Sponsor: CERL
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
115 170 135 115
Retrofit to Reduce Noise of 6K Rough Terrain Forklift
The objective of this project is to reduce operator
noise exposure levels to safe limits of 85 dB and to show
the feasibility of fielding noise-reduced machines with and
without cabs. Approximately $4.7 million will be spent on
retrofitting existing equipment through FY 78. The estimated
completion date is October 1979.
Sponsor: MERADCOM
Investigator: Not cited
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
15 6 11
Retrofit to Reduce Noise of 10K Rough Terrain Forklift
The objective of this project is to reduce operator
noise exposure levels to safe limits of 85 dB and to show
the feasibility of fielding noise-reduced machines with and
without cabs. Approximately $1.8 million will be spent on
retrofitting existing equipment through FY 78. The estimated
completion date is October 1979.
Sponsor: MERADCOM
Investigator: Not cited
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
Generators
Portable Electric Generator Noise Control
The primary objective of this study is to reduce the
noise levels of a new family of 1.5 through 6K kw portable
E-7
-------
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (Continued)
electric generator sets used by DOD to meet tactical needs, to
eliminate annoyance and hearing damage risk to operating
personnel, and to comply with sound level requirements of
local, State, Federal, and foreign communities. This study
is also intended to develop an ultraquiet 1.5 kW portable
electrc generator for Army tactical needs. A prototype
thermal/acoustic enclosure kit has been developed for each of
the generator sizes except a 3 kW generator and are being
evaluated. The enclosures, in addition to suppressing noise,
must provide adequate cooling air to prevent overheating of
the units. The 3-kW generator has a cooling system that is
not compatible with any type of enclosure. There is no
effort to develop kits for the existing inventory of older
Army design diesel sets. The estimated completion date is
October 1981.
Sponsor: MERADCOM
Investigator: Not cited
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
25 25 25 25
General Construction Equipment
Non-Highway Construction Site Noise Control
Conducted under an interagency agreement with EPA, this
program will demonstrate the cost, effectiveness, and
practicality of applying construction noise reduction tech-
niques. Under this program a DOD construction site will be
selected for demonstrating noise mitigation measures, the
most promising and applicable noise reduction techniques will
be identified, a test plan will be developed, and the demon-
stration program will be carried out.
Sponsor: CERL and EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
CERL funding has not been finalized
E-8
-------
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (Continued)
Construction Site Noise Specifications and Control
This program is to develop a cost/benefit relationship
for alternative equipment usage, operational methods, or
physical means to attenuate the noise of construction sites
to acceptable levels. A report has been published that gives
specifications for construction site noise, measurement means,
and mitigation methods. A final report on the cost/benefit
relationship for the mitigation techniques and an analysis
of noise-producing situations was planned for September 1977.
Sponsor: CERL
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
45 55 20
Breakers and Drills
Testing and Methodology of Paving Breakers
This study is being conducted under an interagency agree-
ment with EPA. It was initiated as a prerequisite to the
promulgation of noise emission regulations on paving breakers,
which have been identified as a major noise source. The
objectives of this project are to provide and to compare rep-
resentative samples of noise emissions from current air
(muffled and unmuffled), hydraulic, electric, and gas breakers
under steady-state and working-cycle conditions. The funding
levels represent the DOD portion of funding only.
Sponsor: MERADCOM with EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and
Control
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
5 10
E-9
-------
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (Continued)
MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT
Other Industrial Equipment
Noise Control in Hydroelectric Power Houses
This project will determine noise sources and develop
noise control techniques for hydroelectric power house environ-
ments .
Sponsor: CERL
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
30 60
Noise Control in Shipyards
This study, conducted under interagency agreement with
EPA, will investigate and demonstrate noise abatement measures
for occupational noise hazards in shipyards. Funding levels
reported represent NAVSEA portion only.
Sponsor: NAVSEA and EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Not cited
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
75
Development of Universal Ducting Envelopes for S-280 Shelter
The objective of this noise study was to reduce the noise
levels within the S-280 Shelter to an NC-55, using eight
combinations of duct configurations with single and double
environmental conditioning unit combinations operating in
the high cooling mode. The second purpose of this noise
study was to provide the project office with a series of
alternate duct configurations to meet the requirements for
different types of shelter arrangements. Noise levels with-
in the shelter for the eight combinations with all noise and
vibration control treatment installed meet the original design
objective (NC-55) in all but the 125 Hz and the 500 Hz octave
bands.
E-10
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DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (Continued)
Sponsor: HEL
Investigator: Bolt Beranek and Newman, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
1*
Military Shipboard Equipment
Surface Ship Equipment Silencing
A project was undertaken to review existing in-house air-
borne noise source level data of surface ship machinery and
equipment to analyze noise levels of electronic equipment
cooling cabinets. Existing documentation was used to deter-
mine acoustical characteristics of machinery items, and the
airborne noise levels of selected electronic equipment were
measured. The estimated completion date was July 1977.
Sponsor: Naval Ship Engineering Center
Investigator: David W. Taylor Naval Ship R&D Center
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
39
Aircraft Carrier CORD Development Program
A study was undertaken to develop a Cascade Orificial
Resistive Device (CORD) for aircraft carriers of the Kitty
Hawk, Nimitz, and Enterprise classes. This device will pro-
vide quiet throttling for the regulation of seawater flow
through the flight deck cooling panels and the jet blast
deflector. This project will involve (a) development of CORD
initial design parameters from system requirements, (b) finali-
zation of design parameters, (c) preparation of an unclassi-
fied initial CORD booklet and CORD construction guidance, and
(d) the shipboard installation and evaluation of the CORDs.
Contract-out portion of funding for this project prior to FY 75
was $28K.
E-ll
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DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (Continued)
Sponsor: Naval Ship Engineering Center
Investigator: David W. Taylor Naval Ship R&D Center
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
Development of Document: Ship Noise Control Devices—Their
Use, Maintenance, Inspection, and Replacement
A document was developed to acquaint the ship forces
and those responsible for ship implementation with various
noise reduction hardware and techniques. The objective is to
reduce the transmission of machinery noise and thereby mini-
mize sonar self-noise and radiated noise. The document will
also describe care, maintenance, inspection, and criteria
for replacement of these items. Completion was scheduled
for April 1977.
Sponsor: Naval Sea Systems Command
Investigator: David W. Taylor Naval Ship R&D Center
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
10
Hydrofoil Auxiliary Machinery Development
The objective of this project was to establish auxiliary
machinery requirements of hydrofoils. Auxiliary machinery
selection alternatives and design criteria for future-
generation U.S. Navy hydrofoils are also to be developed. New
concepts were to be developed or existing systems adapted for
naval use. Laboratory tests of components and systems will
be conducted in terms of functions, effectiveness, reliability,
operational requirements, weight, and cost. All auxiliary
systems on existing hydrofoils were to be studied. Technical
assistance was to be provided for solution of problems on
existing craft, and design reviews were to be conducted.
Sponsor: Naval Sea Systems Command
Investigator: Naval Ship R&D Center Systems Development
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
43 22
E-12
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DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (Continued)
Silencing of Combatant Craft and Standard Boats
The objective of this project was to reduce the airborne
noise levels of combatant craft and standard boats. Improved
methods of silencing combatant craft are being developed, and
acoustical evaluations of silencing treatments are being per-
formed. In addition, procedures were to be developed for
designing improved vibration isolation mountings for diesel
engines.
Sponsor: Naval Sea Systems Command
Investigator: Naval Ship R&D Center, Propulsion and Auxiliary
Department
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
16 20
ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES
Building Acoustics
Acoustical Specifications for Building Noise Control
The objective of this program is to provide design pro-
cedures and performance requirements based on existing manuals;
to adopt the procedures for implementation with conventional
and turn-key construction processes; to develop and issue
specific noise reduction guidance for Army - unique sources;
and to develop guidance for open-plan office acoustical
design. A technical manual will be developed giving methods
of controlling and mitigating noise within buildings.
Sponsor: CERL
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
40 60
E-13
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DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (Continued)
Measurement and Methodology
Hydraulic (Fluid Power) System Noise Studies
A basic and applied research and development project is
underway to develop a procedure to test and compare the air-
borne, fluidborne, and structureborne noise of hydraulic
components; to develop procedures to evaluate fluidborne noise
attenuators; and to develop some new designs and demonstrate
their effectiveness.
Sponsor: MERADCOM
Investigator: Not cited
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
39 15 10 12
Noise Monitoring
The purpose of this project is to develop true integrat-
ing environmental noise monitors capable of accurately measur-
ing impulse noises (armor, artillery) in accordance with EPA
and National Academy of Sciences recommendations. Specifica-
tions will be prepared such that devices can be procured for
DOD and general governmental use. Initially, nine monitors
plus spare parts and a data reduction system are to be manu-
factured. This program is based in part upon work conducted
by CERL for EPA to design prototype equipment on an assess-
ment of currently available commercial monitors.
Sponsor: CERL
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000) : 1975 1976 1977 1978
95 65 25
Sampling Strategies
Under this project, mathematical criteria will be
developed for assessing the accuracy of environment noise
monitoring with respect to temporal consideration.
Sponsor: CERL
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
10 10
E-14
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APPENDIX F
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
RD&D PROGRAMS
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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
Funding for FY 76 includes the transition quarter (July 1, 1976
to September 30, 1976). Funding cited for FY 77 and FY 78 includes
estimates. Projects for FY 78 have not been finalized.
ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES
Building Acoustics
Noise Measurements in Buildings
Improved procedures are being developed for measure-
ment of the acoustical properties of building materials and
elements and of noise isolation within and into buildings.
Current emphasis has been on a review of vibration isolation
procedures and on reverberation room determinations of the
sound absorption of acoustical materials. Work will shortly
begin on the assessment of uncertainties in noise isolation
measurements. Specific accomplishments during recent years
include the following:
Literature review on the use and characterization
of the performance of antivibration mountings for
the control of noise and vibration.
Review of building noise criteria for rating the
noise environment in dwellings, noise isolation
between dwellings and noise isolation from outside
to inside a dwelling.
Studies of the transmission loss, thermal trans-
mi ttance and air leakage of exterior walls, doors
and windows.
Investigation of the measurement uncertainties
associated with reverberation room determinations
of sound absorption coefficients.
F-5
-------
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (Continued)
Sponsor: National Bureau of Standards
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
253 235 99 100
Measurement and Methodology
Noise Emission Measurements
The National Bureau of Standards has supported research
toward improvements in procedures for the measurement of
noise emissions. This project is supported through DOC
funds in consistency with the MBS mission of providing for
the physical and engineering services necessary for equity
in trade and the advancement of science and technology.
Specific accomplishments during recent years include the
following:
Completion of a joint EPA/NBS report on air com-
pressor noise measurements and on the estimation
of sound power from sound pressure measurements.
Evaluation and improvements to the large rever-
beration room.
Evaluation of the precision of reference sound
source emission measurements.
Several publications on the use of reverberation
room procedures.
Studies of the effectiveness of rotating diffusers.
Research on absolutely determinable sound sources.
Characterization of the properties of outdoor test
sites.
Completion of special purpose acoustical cind
environmental parameter recording systems.
F-6
-------
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (Continued)
Sponsor: National Bureau of Standards
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
100 125 220 206
Environmental Noise Measurements
Technical assistance was provided to EPA to support
the development of regulations for specific noise sources.
Specifically NBS has provided:
Measurement methodology for portable air compressor
noise and procedures for estimating sound power from
measurements of sound pressure.
Docket analysis for the new truck regulation.
Evaluation of existing data bases and measurement
procedures for six major noise sources: tires,
buses, motorcycles, dozers and loaders, truck re-
frigeration units, and compactors.
Measurements of the impulsive noise emission of
garbage compactors, motorcycles, pavement breakers,
and rock drills.
Identification of difficulties or ambiguities in
measurement by using different methodologies.
Evaluation of alternative measurement techniques
for characterization of asphalt surface acoustic
properties.
Development of procedures for measurement of
noise impact from household and consumer products.
F-7
-------
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (Continued)
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: National Bureau of Standards
Fiscal Year Funding* ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
50 65 40 40
Funding levels are shown for information only. Funding is
reported under sponsoring agency. The Environmental Noise
Measurements project contributes to both the surface trans-
portation and the machinery and construction areas. The
project is identified both in this report and in the surface
transportation noise report with proportionate funding.
Total FY 75 through FY 78 funding levels are $50K, $120K,
$75K, and $75K, respectively.
F-8
-------
APPENDIX G
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
RD&D PROGRAMS
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Funding for FY 76 includes the transition quarter (July 1, 1976
to September 30, 1976). Funding cited for FY 77 and FY 78 includes
estimates. Projects for FY 78 have not been finalized.
CONSTRUCTION AND MINING EQUIPMENT
Earthmovers and Related Equipment
Off-Highway and Stationary Equipment Noise Abatement
Previous DOT noise abatement programs concerning diesel-
powered trucks demonstrated that significant noise reduction
could be achieved through optimization of exhaust silencing.
This project (initiated in FY 74) applied the knowledge
gained from the surface vehicle efforts to construction
equipment powered by diesel engines (excavator, front end
loader, crawler dozer, and industrial tractor). Factors
associated with reducing diesel engine noise by means of
mufflers were identified and developed into a form suitable
for dissemination to manufacturers, owners, users, and
regulatory and enforcement agencies. The most frequently
used construction equipments were selected for proof-testing
and demonstrating noise reductions achievable from exhaust
silencers. A technical report summarizing study results
will be available during the second quarter of FY 78.
Sponsor: Office of Noise Abatement
Investigator: Society of Automotive Engineers
Vehicle Research Institute,
Donaldson Company
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
50 5*
Total DOT funding was $55K.
G-5
-------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (Continued)
Construction and Maintenance Equipment Noise Limits
This multiyear program, conducted by the State of
California, deals with a number of facets of construction
site activity noise. Noise levels are being monitored at
a number of construction sites, and noise emission levels
of specific construction equipment are being identified.
Methods of reducing noise and highway construction equipment
are being developed. Equipment with diesel engine power
plants was found to be the principal noise source, and, as
a result, noise control efforts will be directed primarily
at such equipment. A dump truck has been retrofitted with
noise control devices.
Sponsor: Federal Highway Administration
Investigator: State of California/Department of
Transportation
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
61 42 40 40
General Construction Equipment
Highway Construction Noise: Measurement, Prediction, and
Mitigation
This project was initiated in 1976 to provide guidance
to State highway agencies relative to measurement, prediction,
and abatement of highway construction noise.
Two of the three parts of the study have been completed.
A manual, Special Report—Highway Construction Noise;
Measurement, Prediction, and Mitigation, has been completed,
using state-of-the-art information to detail the measure-
ment, prediction, and abatement of highway construction
noise. Subsequently a workshop was sponsored to identify
short and long-range construction noise abatement strategies.
This workshop resulted in the publication FHWA-TST-77-211,
Report of 1977 Symposium on Highway Construction Noise. The
third part of the project will include sponsorship of research
necessary to verify and, if needed, to improve the FHWA
highway construction noise manual (see "Highway Construction
Site Noise Study" below).
G-6
-------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (Continued)
Sponsor: Federal Highway Administration
Investigator: Dames & Moore, In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
** 20
Highway Construction Site Noise Study
This program to define the noise climate at highway
construction sites and to quantitatively evaluate the
effectiveness of various approaches to lessening the impacts
of noise produced by highway construction activities ranging
from equipment modification to community awareness is to be
conducted under an interagency agreement with EPA/Office of
Noise Abatement and Control to support ongoing Federal
Highway Administration programs related to abatement of high-
way construction noise. The three program parts are:
Acquire sufficient baseline field data to develop
and validate a highway noise prediction model.
Demonstrate no less than three highway construction
noise abatement measures.
Estimate national exposure to highway construction
noise on present and planned Federal aid highway
construction projects.
Funding shown represents DOT portion only.
Sponsor: Federal Highway Administration and EPA/Office
of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
150
** In-house funding.
G-7
-------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (Continued)
ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES
Impact and Vibration
Ground Vibration at Highway Construction Site
The State of Louisiana has completed an investigation
of the ground vibrations associated with construction site
activities, specifically pile driving and hauling, to de-
termine whether the vibrations generated by these activities
could damage surrounding property and precipitate damage
suits. The study found that vibrations from pile driving
operations are not severe enough to physically damage sur-
rounding structures. Similarly, ground vibrations at loca-
tions near haul roads were determined to be insufficient to
damage adjacent structures.
Sponsor: Federal Highway Administration
Investigator: State of Louisiana
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978
10 10
G-8
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APPENDIX H
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
RD&D PROGRAMS
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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Funding for FY 76 includes the transition quarter (July 1, 1976
to September 30, 1976) . Funding cited for FY 77 and FY 78 includes
estimates. Projects for FY 78 have not been finalized.
MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT
Woodworking Machinery
Sawmill Noise Reduction
This is a basic research program for noise reduction
in sawmills. Of particular concern are circular saws. The
study will identify instability mechanisms, analyze self-
excited blade oscillation, measure and model sound radia-
tion, and design a quiet saw tooth.
Sponsor: Agricultural Research Services
Investigator: University of California/Berkley
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000):* 1975 1976 1977 1978
AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY
Cotton Ginning Machinery Noise Reduction
This project is a continuation of a larger program to
develop material handling and foreign matter collection
systems for gin processing of stripped cotton. This work
will enable the equipment to meet environmental standards
for air quality and noise emission. Conventional pneumatic
ventilation systems will be compared with experimental
belt, auger, and air-jet conveyors to evaluate noise emission,
dust levels and costs. The funding shown represents the
noise portion only.
ARS Funding has not been identified.
H-5
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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (Continued)
Sponsor: Agricultural Research Service
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
10 20 20 ~20
Abatement and Control of Noise Associated with Agricultural
Processes
This project is to identify sources of noise that are
detrimental to the health of agricultural workers. Methods
for noise reduction are to be developed with the expectation
that detailed design data and guidelines will be published
for industry use.
Sponsor: Agricultural Research Service
Investigator: Agricultural Research Station/Athens, Georgia
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000) : 1975 1976 1977 1978
133
Materials Handling and Pollution Control at Gins
This project was to develop materials handling and
foreign matter collection systems for gins processing stripped
cotton that meet new environmental standards for air quality
and noise, and that are more efficient from an energy utili-
zation standpoint. Funding shown represents the noise
portion only.
Sponsor: Agricultural Research Service
Investigator: Agricultural Experiment Station/Lubbock, Texas
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
20
Forest Service Equipment Noise Reduction
This ongoing program examines the noise generating
mechanisms and means of silencing portable Forest Service
fire equipment such as portable generators, portable pumps,
etc. Inexpensive, portable partial noise enclosures for
these types of equipment have been developed. Noise levels
H-6
-------
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (Continued)
were reduced by approximately 12 dB by using these partial
enclosures.
Sponsors: Forest Service
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
5233
ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES
Building Acoustics
Noise Control and Privacy in Multi-Family Dwellings
There is one long-term project underway addressing
noise control and privacy in multi-family dwellings. This
project has been underway since 1970. The work emphasizes
the acoustical properties of wood structures suitable for low
rise dwelling units. Studies have addressed the design of
specific partitions and the techniques necessary for their
applications in real structures. This includes evaluation
and correlation of laboratory data and field data. Studies
also address test methodology and test equipment. A
current effort is underway to develop an acoustical applica-
tions manual for light frame housing construction. The manual
is intended for architects and builders, with appendices
for acoustical engineers. The manual will integrate FPL
accomplishments with other technologies and structures, and
will include the outer shell of a building as well as party-
wall partitions.
Major technical accomplishments are:
1. A lab/field measurement correlation technology was
completed which provided new knowledge about parti-
tion performance, flanking, and room environment
effects.
2. Further improvement in the prediction of laboratory,
field, and laboratory/field performance as achieved
by combining the FPL laboratory loss (TL) theories.
H-7
-------
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (Continued)
3. A current compilation of TL data from seven National
American laboratories has revealed some inter-labor-
atory data correlation and accuracy problems.
Major accomplishments with respect to specific structural
designs:
1. Evaluation of several constructions for single rows
of wood studs showed the sound insulation perfor-
mance for some constructions to be lower than
expected from previously published data.
2. Higher laboratory sound insulation performance than
previously reported was shown for double rows of
studs on separate floor plates with gypsum board
faces.
3. A field measurement flanking study, in progress, is
expected to show that a very high field sound
insulation performance can be obtained in practical
wood frame construction when adequate framing pre-
cautions are taken against flanking paths. Parti-
tions tested are in the sound transmission class
(STC) 60 range.
Sponsor: Forest Products Laboratory
Investigator: In-house
Fiscal Year Funding* ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
85 90 95 100
Physical Acoustics
Acoustic Properties of Wood
This basic research program will determine the velocity
of sound in radial, tangential, and longitudinal directions
of commercial woods at different moisture contents. This
information is necessary for the calculation of sound radia-
tion from board vibration in woodworking machinery.
Funding levels are estimated, based on one man-year of effort for
each fiscal year.
H-8
-------
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (Continued)
Sponsor: Agricultural Research Service
Investigator: University of Kentucky
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000):* 1975 1976 1977 1978
Noise Transmission Through Wooded Areas
Noise measurements are being made to determine the
attenuation across areas forested by white pine. These
measurements are being compared to those made across an
open field. Air pollution studies are included in this task.
Sponsor: Agricultural Research Service
Investigator: Delaware State College
Fiscal Year Funding* ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
ARS Funding has not been identified
H-9
-------
-------
APPENDIX I
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
NOISE REGULATORY PROGRAMS
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NOISE REGULATORY PROGRAMS
These technology programs are undertaken to directly support
regulatory actions.
Funding for FY 76 includes the transition quarter (July 1,
1976 to September 30, 1976). Funding cited for FY 77 and FY 78
includes estimates. Projects for FY 78 have not been finalized.
CONSTRUCTION AND MINING EQUIPMENT
Earthmovers and Related Equipment
Testing and Methodology of Tractors (Dozers) and Loaders
The study, funded by EPA and conducted under inter-
agency agreement with MERADCOM of the Army, was undertaken
to develop a representative test methodology for regulation
of environmental noise emitted by loaders and tractors (dozers)
during steady-state and duty-cycle operation. Sources
amenable to noise abatement were identified as well as the
extent of noise reduction attainable and a representative
sample of present equipment was identified.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Army/MERADCOM
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
5 10 10
Earthmoving Equipment
This preregulatory study is part of a continuing effort
to evaluate the noise emission from construction activities.
Equipment evaluated includes scrapers, backhoes, excavators,
and other operationally similar equipment except wheel and
crawler tractors, and loaders. The noise studies encompass
current and best-available noise control technology, cost
and economic impact analysis, and health and welfare benefits
1-5
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (Continued)
associated with various levels of equipment noise reduction.
The technology analysis will among other things survey
currently available and potentially feasible control technol-
ogy, variation among units, and in-use deterioration. Funding
shown is only for technology assessment portion of program.
No RD&D work will be carried out to quiet those machines
under this program.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Science Applications, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
90
Wheel and Crawler Tractors
The thrust of this project was to acquire data to
support a noise emission regulation. Data were acquired
to characterize wheel and crawler tractor noise, to establish
the noise reduction acievable through best available technol-
ogy, and to establish a compliance testing procedure suitable
for manufacturers and EPA enforcement needs.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Science Applications, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
55 175 20
Compressors
Warranties, Maintenance Instruction, and Life Effects on
Noise of Portable Air Compressors
This project will develop guidelines for warranties,
maintenance instructions, and tampering warnings with respect
to noise control features of portable air compressors.
Specific guidelines and recommendations for use by manufac-
turers will be provided. Technical data will be developed
relative to the deterioration of noise levels with time in
order to specify an acoustical assurance period (AAP).
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (Continued)
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Science Applications, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
83
General Construction Equipment
Other Road Building Equipment
This preregulatory project will be directed toward
developing noise emission standards for road building equip-
ment such as rollers, graders, pavers, and other similar
types of construction equipment.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Not selected
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
80 70
Construction Site Noise Model
This project will update, evaluate, and expand existing
construction activity noise prediction models. The areas
of concern are on site equipment distribution and usage.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Not cited
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
28 35
Breakers and Drills
Testing and Methodology of Paving Breakers
This project was initiated as a prerequisite to the
promulgation of noise emission regulations on paving breakers,
Paving breakers have been identified as a major noise source.
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (Continued)
This study is being conducted through an interagency agreement
with MERADCOM of the Army. Funding level represents the
EPA portion only.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control and
ARMY/MERADCOM
Investigator: MERADCOM
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
35
Pavement Breakers and Rock Drills
This project was initiated as a prerequisite to the
promulgation of noise emission regulations on portable and
mounted pavement breakers and rock drills. The multiphase
study included product classification and development (modi-
fication) of a measurement methodology. The study identified
present and feasible noise control technology and identified
the sources of breaker and drill noise. It also discussed
noise level variability among units of the same model and
provided labeling information. Pneumatic, hydraulic, electric,
and gas powered units were considered.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Dames & Moore
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
40 92 42 10
ENGINE TECHNOLOGY AND MACHINE PARTS
Specialty Truck Components
Truck-Mounted Compactors and Refrigeration Units
The technology assessment phase of the specialty truck
project included an identification of noise sources,
classification of specialty trucks, development of a noise
emissions data base, analysis of in-use degradation and
noise level variability among units of the same model, and
a discussion of currently available and potentially feasible
noise control technology.
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (Continued)
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Bolt Beranek and Newman, Inc.
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
108
CONSUMER PRODUCTS
Tools
Chain Saws
This multitask study includes a categorization of
chain saws development of measurement methodology, and
establishment of a chain saw noise emission data base. Other
tasks are to identify currently available and potentially
usable noise control technology; to identify noise emission
deterioration or improvement over time; to analyze noise
variability among units of the same model; and to identify
the impact of post-purchase user noise modifications; and
to develop possible labeling recommendations. Funding
shown is for technology assessment portion of program only.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Not cited
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
70 10
Lawn Mowers
This multitask study included a categorization of lawn
mowers, comparison of outdoor and indoor measurement method-
ologies, identification of specific noise sources (e.g.,
blade, engine exhaust, engine intake, and engine casing),
and establishment of a lawn mower noise emission data base.
Other tasks include identification of currently available
and potentially usable noise control technology; identifi-
cation of noise emission deterioration or improvement over
time; analysis of noise variability among units of the same
model; identification of the impact of post-purchase user
modifications and the development of possible labeling
recommendations.
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (Continued)
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Cambridge Collaborative
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
49
Appliances
Air Conditioners
This study of air conditioner technology develops an
air conditioner classification scheme, compares measure-
ment methodologies, and identified specific noise sources.
It also establishes a noise emissions data base, identifies
currently available and potentially usable noise control
technology, and analyzes variability among units of the
same model. It analyzes noise level improvement/deteriora-
tion over time and the impact of post-purchase user modifi-
cations, and makes possible labeling recommendations.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: Cambridge Collaborative
Fiscal Year Funding ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
45
ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES
Measurement and Methodology
Environmental Noise Measurements
Technical assistance was provided to EPA to support
the development of regulations for specific noise sources.
Specifically NBS has provided:
Measurement methodology for portable air compressor
noise and procedures for estimating sound power
from measurements of sound pressure.
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (Continued)
Docket analysis for the new truck regulation.
Evaluation of existing data bases and measurement
procedures for six major noise sources: tires,
buses, motorcycles, dozers and loaders, truck
refrigeration units, and compactors.
Measurements of the impulsive noise emission of
garbage compactors, motorcycles, pavement break-
ers, and rock drills.
Identification of difficulties or ambiguities in
measurement by using different methodologies.
Evaluation of alternative measurement techniques
for characterization of asphalt surface acoustic
properties.
Development of procedures for measurement of noise
impact from household and consumer products.
Sponsor: EPA/Office of Noise Abatement and Control
Investigator: National Bureau of Standards
Fiscal Year Funding* ($1000): 1975 1976 1977 1978
50 65 40 40
The Environmental Noise Measurements project contributes to both
the surface transportation and the machinery and construction
areas. The project is identified both in this report and in the
surface transportation noise report with proportionate funding.
Total FY 75 through FY 78 funding levels are $50K, $120K, $75K,
and $75K, respectively.
' U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1978-720-335/6076-31
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