Sound Wave Energy Loss due to thickness of aluminum

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of aluminum discs of different thicknesses and their effect on sound energy loss. The person is seeking information on how much sound energy would be lost when using a disc that is twice the thickness of another one. The conversation also mentions a resource that provides an overview of sound attenuation and mentions the need to look up the attenuation coefficient for aluminum in the frequency range of interest to find a specific number. It is noted that the attenuation in metals for audible frequencies is quite low.
  • #1
nst.john
163
1
Hello everyone!

I previously opened a thread asking about sound wave energy loss in aluminum discs based on thickness. I am looking to find out more about exactly how much using a disc that is twice the thickness of the other, (one is 1/8" and the other is 1/4") sound energy would be lost using the thicker one compared to the thinner one. We had some problems using the 1/8" one and we may need to use the 1/4" but I don't want too much sound to be lost in the process. Thank you!
 
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  • #2
A quick overview can be found at:

http://www.silex.com/pdfs/sound attenuation.pdf

The bottom of pg 12 states:
"...transmission loss increases 6 decibels for each doubling of frequency, or each doubling of the wall mass per unit area, up to a plateau frequency."

Remember that Google is your friend; that was the sixth hit searaching for 'sound attenuation versus frequency'
 
  • #3
To find a specific number you will need to look up the attenuation coefficient for aluminium, in the frequency range of interest.
But as an example of how it works, assuming that you start with a beam of intensity 1 W/m2, if the 1/8" plates reduces the intensity to 0.5 W/m2, adding a second 1/8" plate will halve it again, to 0.25 W/m2.
However this is a quite extreme example. The attenuation in metals is quite low for audible frequencies.
 

Related to Sound Wave Energy Loss due to thickness of aluminum

1. What is the relationship between the thickness of aluminum and sound wave energy loss?

The thickness of aluminum has a direct impact on the amount of sound wave energy that is lost. As the thickness increases, the amount of sound energy that is transmitted through the material decreases. This is because thicker materials offer more resistance to the movement of sound waves, causing them to dissipate and lose energy.

2. How does the thickness of aluminum affect the frequency of sound waves?

The thickness of aluminum does not have a significant impact on the frequency of sound waves. The frequency of a sound wave is determined by the source of the sound, not the material it is traveling through. However, thicker aluminum may absorb some of the higher frequencies, resulting in a slightly lower frequency being transmitted.

3. Is there an optimal thickness of aluminum for minimizing sound wave energy loss?

Yes, there is an optimal thickness of aluminum for minimizing sound wave energy loss. This varies depending on the type of sound wave and the frequency being transmitted. In general, thinner aluminum will result in more energy loss, while thicker aluminum may provide more insulation but also absorb some of the sound waves.

4. How does the density of aluminum affect sound wave energy loss?

The density of aluminum does not have a direct impact on sound wave energy loss. However, it is related to the thickness of the material. Thicker aluminum tends to have a higher density, which can contribute to more energy loss, while thinner aluminum has a lower density and may allow for more sound wave transmission.

5. Can the surface finish of aluminum affect sound wave energy loss?

Yes, the surface finish of aluminum can affect sound wave energy loss. A smooth surface finish can reflect sound waves, resulting in less energy loss, while a rough surface finish can absorb sound waves and cause more energy loss. This is why acoustic panels and soundproofing materials often have a textured surface to reduce sound wave energy loss.

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