Krylov APAC 1997 - postprint.pdf (2.53 MB)
Download fileInvestigation of environmental low-frequency noise
journal contribution
posted on 21.01.2013, 12:04 by Victor V. KrylovThe paper describes the results of theoretical and experimental investigation of
environmental low-frequency noise and vibration. The main aim of this investigation
was to check up the popular belief that this noise is being generated by underground gas
pipes. The theoretical hypothesis has been developed which shows that under certain
circumstances underground gas pipes may be in fact one of the sources of low-frequency
noise. According to this hypothesis, underground pipes are able to effectively generate
Rayleigh surface waves in the ground. Then, propagating to the buildings, these waves
can result in generating structure-borne noise in buildings. The experimental
investigations of the low-frequency noise and vibration were carried out in several
locations over the East Midlands (UK) and included high resolution measurements of
noise and vibration spectra. Records were taken inside and outside the houses, as well
as near buried gas distribution lines. In 50% of cases the low frequency noise
complained of has been detected. However, the presence of ground vibrations was not observed in any location. Thus, at least during this series of experiments, there was no
evidence of underground gas pipes being a source of low frequency noise. The measured
characteristics of the air-borne noise show that as a rule its level is below the average
threshold of human sensitivity. Thus, only exceptionally sensitive people can be affected.
Nevertheless, even though a number of people sensitive to low-frequency noise is
relatively small, the technical and legal aspects of this problem deserve further
consideration.
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