Sound Power Measurement Techniques for Powered Hand Tools

摘要

As part of a long-term goal to reduce noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) in the construction industry, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has developed a database of sound power levels of electric powered hand tools used in the construction industry. In the course of the project, test jigs were designed and measurement techniques were devised to improve repeatability of measurements and to reduce waste materials, setup and data acquisition time. This paper overviews the test jig design and sound power level measurement techniques used for several types of tools that were tested. These include belt sanders, circular saws, drills, grinders, hammer drills, impact wrenches, jig saws, miter saws, reciprocating saws, and screw drivers.