Vibration and sound isolation equipment is required for most central fan installations. Standard mountings of fiberglass, ribbed rubber, neoprene mounts, and springs are available for most fans and prefabricated units. The designer must account for seismic restraint requirements for the seismic zone in which the particular project is located. In some applications, the fans may require concrete inertia blocks in addition to non-enclosed spring mountings. Steel springs require sound-absorbing material inserted between the springs and the foundation. Horizontal discharge fans operating at a high static pressure frequently require thrust arrestors. Ductwork connections to fans should be made with fireproof fiber cloth sleeves having considerable slack, but without offset between the fan outlet and rigid duct. Misalignment between the duct and fan outlet can cause turbulence, generate noise, and reduce system efficiency. Electrical and piping connections to vibration-isolated equipment should be made with flexible conduit and flexible connections. Special considerations are required in seismic zones.
Equipment noise transmitted through the ductwork can be reduced by sound-absorbing units, acoustical lining, and other means of attenuation. Sound transmitted through the return and relief ducts should not be overlooked. Acoustical lining sufficient to adequately attenuate any objectionable system noise or locally generated noise should be considered. Chapter 46 of the 1999 ASHRAE Handbook—Applications, Chapter 7 of the 1997 ASHRAE Handbook—Fundamentals, and ASHRAE Standard 68 have further information on sound and vibration control. Noise control, both in the occupied spaces and outside near intake or relief louvers, must be considered. Some local ordinances may limit external noise produced by these devices.
