Application of an Acoustical Resonator to Reduce HVAC Blower Noise 2001-01-1526

Blower noise is the single most dominating contributor of interior noise for several operating conditions; the worst condition being low engine speed and high HVAC fan speed. The goal of the research presented in this paper is to investigate the application of an acoustical resonator to reduce HVAC blower noise. Resonator systems are constructed and objective bench tests are performed to objectively assess their effectiveness towards a specific acoustical issue within the HVAC system. In addition, HVAC performance is objectively measured to ensure that airflow has not been degraded with the addition of the resonator. Modeling and simulation are used in this research to verify the HVAC system acoustical properties and to optimize the location of the resonator.