Data centers generate substantial noise that can affect both internal environments and nearby communities while serving a critical function. Acoustic management is not only essential for compliance and comfort but also for the optimal performance of sensitive equipment.
Using acoustics as a consideration point during the design process will help reduce noise mitigation costs and improve community relations. Initially, datacenters were generally built away from population centers, allowing the noise and acoustical implications to be lower on the list of things to consider. Increasing power requirements mean datacenters need to encroach more on populated, noise-sensitive areas. In some situations, the total amount of power isn’t sufficient, requiring power plants on the site to make up for limited capacity. Considering noise in the design process and completing an Environmental Impact Study before the equipment is operational will reduce the cost of acoustical mitigation and reduce overall risk.
In addition to exterior noise impacts on communities adjacent to the data center, interior noise levels within the working areas are becoming increasingly important to consider. The intensive cooling requirements of a data center generally mean large and noisy Air Handling Units are constantly in operation. Without considering the noise produced by this equipment, the working areas will be excessively noisy, which may contribute to a lack of concentration and increased stress. Providing a comfortable working environment with appropriate noise levels will help with employee retention, attitude, and performance.
We have state-of-the-art technology and methods to evaluate different design scenarios to assist with finding the most appropriate measures to mitigate noise and meet design targets.
Our staff has worked on data centers in several regions, including the Midwest, the West Coast, the Southeast, the Mid-Atlantic, and Hawaii.
