Sound Management in HVAC
A leading HVACR and cold-chain solutions provider partnered with Stellarix to explore effective ways to reduce system noise and meet evolving global sound regulations. The study identified both proven and emerging noise-reduction technologies, as well as best practices from adjacent industries. It also mapped key residential and industrial noise regulations across global markets, helping the client align product design with compliance while advancing quieter, more efficient systems.
Client Background:
The client is a leading provider of HVACR technology and cold-chain solutions, driving groundbreaking innovations to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.
Engagement Objective:
The objective is to identify the commercialized and under-researched solutions available to overcome the sound problem.
- Identifying how leading HVAC competitors address excessive or undesirable noise in compressor design, including products, technologies, and engineering tactics they employ for sound reduction.
- A detailed analysis of innovative sound management approaches from other industries, such as automotive, home appliances, aerospace, and defense, where noise reduction has been successfully implemented.
- Highlighting emerging technologies and design strategies, such as sound insulation (e.g., sound blankets), rubber mounts, low-noise electric motors, optimized blowers, and advanced air channel designs.
- Furthermore, identifying global residential sound regulations and guidelines that influence HVAC product design, including both direct and indirect legislation aimed at reducing noise levels.
Client Impact:
The provided report gave the client in-depth insights into leading companies drawing inspiration from biomimetic designs and replicating them in fan blades to reduce air separation and minimize noise. By identifying relevant patents, the client can improve their air conditioner’s indoor unit by addressing compressor noise, including designing the casing with elastic damping members at critical points. Sound masking and neutralization technologies, developed by tech providers, can also be used as retrofittable or aftermarket solutions, adding value for the client.
The study provided detailed regulations that helped the client understand various noise level regulations across different countries for indoor and outdoor HVAC units, covering both daytime and nighttime in residential and industrial areas.
Outcome Snapshot:
