Driftsstøj

Driftsstøj refers to the noise generated by machinery, equipment, or industrial processes during normal operation. It is distinct from noise arising from external sources such as traffic or construction and is a central consideration in environmental noise planning and occupational acoustics.

The noise is typically described by its sound power level (Lw) and sound pressure level (Lp). Measurements are usually expressed in decibels with A-weighting (dBA) to reflect human hearing sensitivity. International standards such as ISO 3744 and ISO 3746 provide methods for determining the sound power of stationary sources, while standards like ISO 11202 address noise in the work environment. In practice, driftsstøj figures are used in product labeling, permits, and environmental impact assessments.

Applications of driftsstøj assessment occur in product development, where design choices aim to reduce mechanical noise from components such as bearings, gears, and transmission systems, as well as airflow noise. In planning, noise impact assessments evaluate emissions from new facilities and guide required mitigations. For occupational health, worker exposure to noise is controlled to prevent hearing damage, typically through monitoring and limiting exposure over shifts.

Mitigation strategies include isolating noisy components, enclosing or shielding equipment, implementing vibration isolation, using silencers or acoustic enclosures, improving lubrication and maintenance, and optimizing layout to minimize noise propagation to sensitive areas.

Related topics include environmental noise, occupational noise exposure, and acoustical engineering.