Optimizing Microperforated Panel Sound Absorbers Using Response Surface Methodology: Measurement, Modeling, and Performance Evaluation

Zahra Hashemi; Mohammad Javad SheikhMozafari; Azma Putra; Marzie Sadeghian; Nasrin Asadi; Saeid Ahmadi; Masoumeh Alidostie

doi:10.18502/jhsw.v14i3.18312

Zahra Hashemi Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Medical Sciences, Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
Mohammad Javad SheikhMozafari Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Azma Putra School of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley 6102, WA, Australia.
Marzie Sadeghian Department of Occupational Health, School of Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
Nasrin Asadi School of Medical Sciences, Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
Saeid Ahmadi Department of Occupational Health and Safety, School of Health, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
Masoumeh Alidostie Department of Public Health, School of Health, Social Health Determinate Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jhsw.v14i3.18312

Keywords: Noise control, Micro-perforated panel Absorber, Optimization, RSM, FEM, ECM

Abstract

Introduction: Microperforated panels (MPPs), often considered as potential replacements for fiber absorbers, have a significant limitation in their absorption bandwidth, particularly around the natural frequency. This study aims to address this challenge by focusing on the optimization and modeling of sound absorption in a manufactured MPP.

Material and Methods: The study employed Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a Central Composite Design (CCD) approach using Design Expert software to determine the average normal absorption coefficient within the frequency range of 125 to 2500 Hz. Numerical simulations using the Finite Element Method (FEM) were conducted to validate the RSM findings. An MPP absorber was then designed, manufactured, and evaluated for its normal absorption coefficient using an impedance tube. Additionally, a theoretical Equivalent Circuit Model (ECM) was utilized to predict the normal absorption coefficient for the manufactured MPP.

Results: The optimization process revealed that setting the hole diameter to 0.3 mm, the percentage of perforation to 2.5%, and the air cavity depth behind the panel to 25 mm resulted in maximum absorption within the specified frequency range. Under these optimized conditions, the average absorption coefficient closely aligned with the predictions generated by RSM across numerical, theoretical, and laboratory assessments, demonstrating a 13.8% improvement compared to non-optimized MPPs.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates the effectiveness of using RSM to optimize the parameters affecting MPP performance. The substantial correlation between the FEM numerical model, ECM theory model, and impedance tube results positions these models as both cost-effective and reliable alternatives to conventional laboratory methods. The consistency of these models with the experimental outcomes validates their potential for practical applications.