Acoustic Performance Analysis of an Air Handling System

In the present study, the acoustic performance of an automotive air handling system is analyzed using computational aeroacoustics methods. The purpose of this study is to develop a comprehensive method to quantify noise sources and predict sound quantities at any location in the system as well as in the exterior field. Flow of air and vibration of structures are solved simultaneously in the time domain. Results are then postprocessed to derive sound sources. Sound pressure levels at desired locations in the exterior field are then predicted. Predictions were compared with preliminary test data. Also compared is a simulation of the same system using a Helmholtz equation solver, but without taking into account the average fluid flow.