Quiet by design: how IAC Acoustics is helping reduce transport noise

The buzz of traffic, the clatter of trains, and the hum of ship engines are familiar sounds in our daily lives. But this constant noise can have a real impact on people – from travellers and transport workers to those living near busy hubs. 

In fact, prolonged exposure to such noise can lead to stress, disturbed sleep, and other health issues, particularly as our cities and transport networks grow.

At IAC Acoustics, we understand this challenge. Our expertise lies in reducing these intrusive sounds, aiming for a quieter, more sustainable balance between transportation infrastructure and community well-being.

How we help solve the problem of transport noise

Here’s a closer look at how we address noise across a number of key transport sectors.

Railways

While trains are an essential part of our transport network, they often bring noise issues along for the ride — noise which comes primarily from the engines.

Our advanced silencers and exhaust systems are built to mitigate this. Far from off-the-shelf parts, these are tailored to each engine’s specifications — the only way to ensure they’re effective.

We also tackle engine-related vibrations, which contribute to the overall noise. By installing resilient mounts and supports, we dampen these vibrations, leading to a smoother, quieter train ride. Plus, our exhaust filters and catalytic purifiers play a dual role: they reduce noise and are environmentally friendly.

Our Thermowrap thermal insulation blankets serve a double purpose, too, managing both heat and noise within engine compartments. And when it comes to air systems, we’ve got it covered with our air inlet silencers and filtration systems.

By weaving together these solutions, we’ve helped turn down the volume on rail transport, making journeys quieter and reducing the noise footprint on our communities.

Mining vehicles 

In the mining sector, the constant rumble of above-ground machinery is a daily reality that can significantly affect the well-being of both workers and nearby communities. But with our help, it can be contained. 

We use advanced techniques like acoustic camera modelling to pinpoint exactly where the noise is coming from. Then, we craft tailored solutions, whether it’s for new equipment or retrofitting existing machines.

Our strategies include everything from secondary silencers to specially designed engine compartment linings, effectively reducing noise right from the get-go. We also offer comprehensive solutions like Thermowrap thermal insulation blankets, tailored to each piece of machinery. Whether it’s for equipment straight from the manufacturer or as an upgrade for existing machinery, our solutions focus on precision and efficiency.

Road tunnels

Road tunnels can be extremely noisy, echoing with the sound of traffic. We fit them special noise-reducing tools called ‘attenuators’ to keep things quieter. They act as mufflers for the tunnel, absorbing sound and reducing echo.

The materials we choose are important; because tunnels are narrow and enclosed, the exhaust from vehicles can create a harsh, corrosive atmosphere, and the constant traffic flow generates high air pressure. Our attenuators, designed with robust materials and smart engineering, are built to withstand these tough conditions.

Marine transport

In the world of marine transport, where massive engines and propellers present a unique set of noise challenges, we’re all hands on deck to ensure that these giants of the sea are as quiet as they are powerful.

Our suite of solutions caters to everything from military vessels to luxury yachts. Key among these is our specialised marine exhausts, which significantly reduce the noise from shipboard diesel engines. Another standout feature is our rainmaker water injectors, which cool exhaust gases more efficiently and allow for quieter operation.

We also provide expansion bellows and ducting made from robust stainless steel or fibreglass, targeting engine noise and vibrations. Resilient mounting and supports further dampen vibrations, which would otherwise make life on board unpleasant.

Then there are our exhaust filters and catalytic purifiers, which lessen noise while contributing to marine environmental preservation. We also add Thermowrap insulation, which offers heat control as well as noise reduction.

With advanced 3D modelling and clash detection, we customise these solutions for even the tightest ship spaces, ensuring optimal performance and preserving the serenity of the marine environment.

Noisy vehicles? We can help!

At IAC Acoustics, we’re creating noise control products that enhance quality of life and promote environmental sustainability. With over 75 years of global experience in noise control, we bring a wealth of knowledge and innovation to every project, ensuring high-performance solutions that meet the specific needs of our clients.

If you’d like to know more about our transport noise-control solutions, get in touch today.