Feasibility of a Standardized Test Procedure for Random Incidence Sound Absorption Tests Using a Small Size Reverberation Room

In the automotive industry, random incidence sound absorption tests are conducted on flat material samples as well as on finished components such as headliners, seats, and floor carpet systems. This paper discusses a feasibility study that is being pursued by an SAE task force, under the direction of the Acoustical Materials Committee, to develop a small volume reverberation room test method for conducting random incidence sound absorption tests. This method has the potential to be suitable for flat material and component testing. A round-robin test program is being conducted to determine variability due to test procedures, room size differences and laboratory differences. The paper discusses the selection of test samples and provides an update on the findings of the round-robin test study.