Design, Construction, Testing, and Field Operation of a Quieted Diesel Highway Truck

This paper summarizes the results of a research, development, evaluation and demonstration program directed at applying noise control technology to the quieting of heavy-duty diesel-powered highway trucks. After a brief description of the methodology employed, including noise test procedures, the techniques utilized in the design and development of the noise control packages for the Quieted Truck are discussed. Results from the 112.000 mile field test of the truck are given, along with an analysis of the total costs incurred in quieting the vehicle to various levels. The results clearly indicate that while it is possible to build and operate a heavy-duty diesel-powered truck having a noise rating of less than 75 dB/A/, it is not feasible nor desirable to require that all heavy-duty trucks conform to such a low rating.