This sound-absorbing test facility was built by Eaton Corp. to test for noise, vibration, and harshness on hydraulic systems and components.Beyer continued, "The sound chamber is a critical component in our methodology for low-noise design and increases customer confidence in our ability to design and develop hydraulic components that are inherently quiet, thereby illustrating our commitment to the future of hydraulics.
"It also enables us to validate models and benchmark other companies' products, which is critical in supporting our strong emphasis on NVH modeling and simulation efforts."
The sound chamber lets Eaton rank noise levels in general on customer vehicles, as well as provide noise reduction solutions outside the realm of hydraulic components, which, in most applications, are not the leading contributor to the overall noise of mobile and industrial equipment.
The internal dimensions of the hemi-anechoic chamber (meaning all but the floor is sound-absorbing) accommodate vehicles up to nearly 19 ft long, 8 ft wide and 12 ft high. The chamber is certified to an 80-Hz cut-off frequency and provides 600-hp drive capability.