To build the specification you will need to know the following information and supply it where indicated in the shaded boxes:
- Noise emission criterion
- Applicable test standard (and any additional measurement locations required)
- Procurement process (e.g., whether a tradeoff analysis will be performed)
Copy and paste the text from the template below into your equipment specification and supply the above information where requested.
A text (.rtf) version of the Noise Emission Specification Template is available as a download.
NASA Noise Emission Specification Template
Noise Emission Criterion
Unless specified otherwise in this document, the A-weighted noise emission shall not exceed:
Choose one of the following:
[insert sound level criterion here] dB(A) A-weighted sound level at [insert location (e.g., operator position) or distance (e.g., 1 meter) here]
[insert sound power level criterion here] dB(A) sound power level
Always include the following:
during all operational states of the machine, in accordance with [insert test standard here].
The criterion applies to equipment operation at no load and under all anticipated and actual production loads under final installed conditions, including noise associated with the workpiece, tooling, and material handling, as applicable.
Impulse sound pressure levels shall not exceed LPC,peak = 130 dB at any designated measurement location and at the operator’s ear, during operation of the machine.
An equipment system consisting of multiple components (e.g., motor, compressor, control valve, noise control devices) shall comply with the criterion as a complete system rather than as individual components.
Sound control treatments shall be designed to permit access to equipment for operations and maintenance. These treatment designs shall not interfere with safety or reliability.
Proposal Instructions
Proposals shall state the sound level being quoted. This may be either the criterion specified above or a lower value that may give the offeror an advantage in a tradeoff analysis. The successful offeror will be responsible for demonstrating compliance with the quoted sound level in shop and field verification.
If application of state-of-the-art technology is not sufficient to reduce sound levels to the specified limit, the sound level best achievable, utilizing feasible engineering controls, shall be quoted.
The supplier shall submit certified sound data using the NASA Buy-Quiet Program Sound Data Verification Form or equivalent template.
The proposal shall detail the noise control approach adopted by the manufacturer, including the types of acoustical materials and noise control components.
Any added cost due to the performance of sound level verification tests shall be itemized. Shop and field verification tests shall be itemized separately.
If Tradeoff Process will be used, include this text:
NASA will employ a tradeoff analysis to evaluate the net long-term cost of the effects of product noise emission along with cost and other submittal information to arrive at a determination of best value.
Noise Emission Verification Testing
The supplier shall conduct noise emission verification tests. It is the supplier’s responsibility to acquire and use the sound measurement test standard specified for the equipment being purchased.
If the parts and/or tooling necessary to duplicate production conditions are unique to NASA, NASA will provide a reasonable quantity of parts and/or necessary tooling to duplicate production conditions.
The supplier shall submit certified sound data using the NASA Buy-Quiet Program Sound Data Verification Form or equivalent template.
Noise emission verification testing shall be performed at vendor’s facility in accordance with [insert test standard here].
The offeror’s proposal shall provide the detailed sound measurement test procedure that complies with or is equivalent to the test standard cited. Any alternate proposed sound measurement test procedures shall be subject to review and approval by NASA.
If actual loading is not possible, loading shall be accomplished by simulation. Details of the load simulating device and loading techniques shall be subject to review and approval by NASA.
NASA shall be notified at least 10 days in advance to witness any specified tests.
Neither acceptance of the equipment after shop verification nor shipment of the equipment releases the supplier from its responsibility to meet the specified criterion upon installation.
Noise emission verification testing shall be conducted after the equipment is installed and prior to contract closeout in accordance with [insert test standard here].
The offeror’s proposal shall provide the detailed sound measurement test procedure that complies with or is equivalent to the test standard cited. Any alternate proposed sound measurement test procedures shall be subject to review and approval by NASA.
NASA shall be notified at least 5 days in advance to witness any specified tests.