T&M Understanding Sound Level Meters: Basics, Types, and Manufacturers
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The meter used to measure sound noise level is known as a sound meter or sound level meter. This article covers the basics and types of sound level meters, their benefits and manufacturers.
Definition: As we know, sound level measurement is very useful in the field of acoustics. The meter used for quantification of different types of noise is known as a sound level meter. It’s widely used in industrial, environmental, and aircraft settings.
It’s important to note that a sound meter doesn’t perceive human loudness level. Just the level of sound isn’t enough; frequency is also equally important. Hence, better response over a wide frequency range is considered more accurate in a sound meter.
Basics and Types of Sound Level Meters
Following are the different types of sound level meters (SLMs):
- Integrating meter and non-integrating meter
- Class-1 and class-2 based on IEC standard
- Type-0, Type-1 and Type-2
Integrating meter: This type is used to measure sound level in Leq (Equivalent Continuous Sound Level). It is often employed in occupational and environmental noise level monitoring.
Non-integrating meter: This meter is used to display instantaneous noise level at one moment in time. It’s suitable for spot-checking and for steady sound level monitoring.
Both class-1 and class-2 SLMs adhere to the IEC standard. Both have the same functions but they have different tolerance errors.
- Class-1: Offers a wider frequency range and tighter tolerance.
- Class-2: Offers a narrower frequency range and lighter tolerance.
There are three types of SLMs as per ANSI standard:
- Type-0: Used in laboratories
- Type-1: Used in precision measurements in the field, and also used in the design of noise controls
- Type-2: Used for general-purpose measurements
Manufacturers of Sound Level Meters
In order to select the right SLM, one needs to decide based on the respective application of use. There are two main categories of SLMs viz. general purpose and special. General-purpose SLMs are used when it is desired to measure noise emitted from various sources such as a water pump. Here, Type-2 with frequency weighting-A option is chosen.
Special applications include occupational, industrial & environmental, community, and research. For these types of applications, SLMs of type-1 or type-2 with A/C frequency weighting along with Leq measurement are used.
Here are some manufacturers of sound level meters:
| Manufacturer | Model | Features |
|---|---|---|
| HTC Instruments | SL-1350 and SL-1352 | IEC61672-1 class-2, ANSI S1.4 Type-2 |
| Cirrus | Optimus CR-17x Series | IEC61672-1 class-1, ANSI S1.4 Type-2 |
| AMPROBE | SM-20A | IEC651 Type-2, ANSI 1.4 Type-2 |
| B&K Precision | 735 | IEC 651 Type-2 |
| Lutron | SL-4033SD | IEC 61672 Class-1 |
| TES | TES-1150, TES11561 | IEC 61672-1 class-2, ANSI S1.4 Type-2 |
| RION Co. Ltd., Japan | NA-28 series | Measurement and display of 1/1 and 1/3 octave, function as meter and analyzer both using switch button, simple PC interface |
Benefits of Sound Level Meter
A Sound Level Meter (SLM) is an essential device used to measure sound pressure levels in various environments. Following are some of the advantages of sound level meter.
- Helps industries and workplaces comply with environmental and occupational noise exposure limits set by regulatory bodies such as OSHA, EPA, and ISO.
- Assists in monitoring and controlling noise levels in workplaces, reducing the risk of noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) among workers.
- Measures and analyzes noise pollution levels in urban areas, residential zones, and industrial sites to minimize environmental impact.
- Assists in acoustic engineering by designing quieter machinery, vehicles and consumer product developments.
- Used in theaters, concert halls and recording studios to optimize acoustics and maintain desired sound levels.
- Enhances public health and well-being by identifying high noise areas that may contribute to stress, sleep disturbances and other health issues, enabling corrective actions.
- Available in compact, handheld models for quick noise assessments in diverse locations.
- Ensures that heavy machinery, construction sites, and manufacturing plants do not exceed permissible noise levels. This helps to protect workers and nearby communities.
- Provides accurate noise level measurements for use in legal cases, complaints and environmental assessments. This sound meter in very valuable in legal and compliance investigations.
- Helps researchers, scientists, and students analyze sound waves, acoustics and noise impact in various studies.
Conclusion
Sound Level Meters are indispensable tools for measuring and managing noise levels in a variety of applications. By enabling precise noise assessment and control, they contribute to safer and more comfortable environments.
