Tunnel Ventilation

Tunnel ventilation attenuation is a crucial element of any tunnel system and essential for operational performance, safety and environmental conditions.  Tunnel systems need effective acoustic attenuation in order to manage noise internally, and to mitigate external environmental impact.

The integration of tunnel ventilation attenuator systems is an important consideration during the initial design phase of any tunnel project – errors and omissions can lead to increase in project scope, variation and significant increased costs. IAC Acoustics is an expert manufacturer in practical and sustainable tunnel ventilation attenuation solutions. We offer a wide range of field-proven attenuator product configurations which enables our team of experts to engineer a turnkey project solution for you.

We cover all aspects and areas of your infrastructure project – from acoustic surveys, technical and structural design through to full project management, manufacture and installation.

Multiple aspects of tunnel design are driven by safety and environmental standards. Understanding these safety regulations and being able to provide a low impact solution is all part of the project evaluation stage. Using natural ventilation where possible, effective attenuation can potentially save significant mechanical ventilaiton and energy costs.

Parallel Interlocking Attenuators

This design assumes the tunnel is of rectangular shape and is to be installed into concrete air tunnel without the use of external casing around the splitters.

The attenuator assembly is made up of interlocking rectangular parallel splitter modules whilst all maximum permissible module heights will be verified by FEA analysis during detailed design.  Designs can be orientated either vertically or horizontally

Each splitter module is installed individually with module sizes and all quantities confirmed at the initial design stage. The combination of a stacking process, splitter size and mounting system allow for accurate installation with minimal parts and an on-site fit.

Utilising a tongue an grove fixing system, these attenuators can easily be installed in areas with little over head room for lifting equipment.

This installation method also allows for readily removal and re-installation during maintenance or repair without removing adjacent splitters.  This design is well proven in the field and used for the Sydney Metro and WestConnex projects.

Box Type Attenuators

These prefabricated modular sections means installers are not required to handle individual splitter pieces in confined spaces which provides much simpler installation. This design facilitates a rapid install schedule, e.g. one working day to install a typical 7m x7 m x 7m attenuator.

All splitters are pre-assembled into boxes within the factory and can be immediately installed into the designated openings once unloaded from shipping containers. The maximum module size for this design can reach 2.3 m x 2.3m x 2.3m.  Modules sizes are designed for ease of transport and installation. Module sizes can be adjusted to suit the site requirements at design stage.

Lifting points are provided on all box modules for ease of handling and for horizontal airflow orientation, while reinforcing flanges and stiffeners are found on the sides and top. Slots can also be included in the top flange to suit forklift tines. The box casings are robust to protect the internal splitters during transport and handling during this process

This design is proven infield having been used for Westconnex M4E Parramatta Rd and Underwood Rd Ventilation Facilities.