Using Empirical Data to Validate the Role of Computational Fluid Dynamics in Various Stages of Aero-Acoustic Simulations.

Authors

Keywords:

Computational Modeling, Industrial Silencer, Aero-acoustic, Pressure-drop, Student

Abstract

The purpose of utilizing higher level of understanding techniques is to improve the overall outcome of any process. As a full-service provider of complex engineering solutions to environmental noise problems, there is a need to house specialized knowledge to design and deliver bespoke solutions that are compatible with various constraints that implicate numerous subjects (acoustics, aerodynamics, structural, materials/chemical compatibility). The physics associated with seemingly simple products, such as an industrial acoustic silencer, is often complex. More specifically, its study should be described as aero-vibro-acoustical—whereby (1) airflow causes vibrations in the structure of the silencer, (2) the vibrations generate airborne and structure-borne noise, and (3) components of the silencer (i.e., baffles) attenuate noise propagating through the duct. Motivated to expand our understanding of our products’ performances, we are using Siemens software to circumvent exhaustive laboratory testing that is cost-prohibitive, and which is, generally, limited to common geometries and parameters. A systematic approach is necessary to validate correlations between simulated results with empirical data. This is accomplished by, first, correlating the aerodynamic performance of products using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to predict pressure drop values and the distribution of aerodynamic forces on the structure, to then leverage additional solvers to assess the vibro-acoustical stage of the analysis.

 

Author Biographies

Sogand Okhovatian (E.I.T), Parklane Mechanical Acoustics

Sogand Okhovatian is an undergraduate engineering student studying at University of Toronto. She's majoring in Mechanical engineering, specializing in Energy Systems and Manufacturing, and pursuing minors in Artificial Intelligence, Sustainable Energy, and Advanced Manufacturing. She is currently a research associate intern at Parklane Mechanical Acoustics. She possesses a variety of skills and knowledge from previous experience in the Energy industry (Hydro One, Peak Power), and material's science research, and her curiousity expands her skills and knowledge continuously.

Dr. Viken Koukounian (Ph.D., P.Eng.), Parklane Mechanical Acoustics

Dr. Viken Koukounian (Ph.D., P.Eng.) is the Director of Engineering at Parklane Mechanical Acoustics, a manufacturing and licensed engineering company that provides end-to-end turnkey solutions for mechanical noise control and vibration isolation. He brings a deep understanding and passion for converging aero-vibro-acoustical theories and best practices, with more than a decade of experience from working in various sectors (HVAC, aerospace, rail, noise control, vibration isolation, ultrasonics and architectural acoustics) having worked at K.R. Moeller Associates Ltd. (manufacturer of LogiSon and Modio), Hatch Ltd. consulting engineers, Bombardier Aerospace, Bombardier Transportation, and Vibro-Acoustics (now a Swegon Group).

Viken is committed to, what he refers to, the 'Paradigm Shift'—where the needs and expectations (i.e., acoustical and speech privacy, acoustical comfort and communication) of the occupant dictate requirements for architectural spaces and the outdoor environment. He actively participates—as a registered Member or a nominated Subject Matter Expert—in various standardization committees, including the Acoustical Society of America (ASA), the American Society of Heating, Ventilation and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), ASTM International, Green Building Initiative (GBI), International Organization of Standardization (ISO) on behalf of Standards Council of Canada (SCC), the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI).

Additional Files

Published

2024-05-12

How to Cite

1.
Okhovatian S, Koukounian V. Using Empirical Data to Validate the Role of Computational Fluid Dynamics in Various Stages of Aero-Acoustic Simulations. . Canadian Acoustics [Internet]. 2024 May 12 [cited 2024 Nov. 18];52(1). Available from: https://jcaa.caa-aca.ca/index.php/jcaa/article/view/4178