Soundproofing of chillers in San Stefano Plaza

Project Overview

San Stefano Plaza is a modern mixed-use complex that combines residential spaces with a wide range of commercial services, including trendy retail stores, restaurants, an art gallery, and a spa. While the complex is designed to offer maximum comfort to its residents, noise from the commercial area, particularly from a chiller unit serving the Billa grocery store, became a significant issue. The outdoor air conditioning unit, installed in the underground parking lot, created noise that reverberated throughout the complex, disturbing residents on the upper floors.

Challenge

The main problem was the echoing noise from the chiller unit in the underground parking lot. The confined space caused the sound to reverberate, creating a tunnel-like effect that disrupted the peaceful atmosphere for residents. San Stefano Plaza management was determined to resolve this issue and reached out to DECIBEL for a soundproofing solution.

Scope of Work

• Diagnose and analyze the noise issue in the underground parking lot
• Design and propose a soundproofing solution
• Implement the solution in two stages:
• Installation of metal perforated “PZP” panels on walls around the chiller
• Installation of sound mufflers in front of the chiller fans
• Measure noise levels to verify the results

Solution

The project was divided into two key stages:

Stage 1 involved the installation of metal perforated “PZP” panels (50 mm thickness) without a backside cover on the walls surrounding the chiller. These sound-absorbing panels were strategically placed to reduce the reflective surfaces around the chiller, preventing the sound waves from bouncing back into the underground parking lot and, subsequently, into the affected residential areas.

Stage 2 focused on the installation of two mufflers in front of the chiller fans. These mufflers, measuring 1500 mm in length with an outer diameter of Ф950 mm and a sound absorption thickness of 100 mm, were designed to significantly dampen the noise generated by the chiller’s fans.

Results

Once the installation was completed, DECIBEL’s team conducted sound level measurements, and the results exceeded the client’s expectations. The project—from diagnosis to completion—was executed within just a month and a half, ensuring minimal disruption for the residents. The San Stefano Plaza management was highly satisfied with the outcome, and this marks another successful collaboration between DECIBEL and the complex.

Importance of Soundproofing in Mixed-Use Complexes

Mixed-use developments, like San Stefano Plaza, often face challenges in maintaining a balance between commercial operations and residential comfort. Noise pollution from commercial machinery such as air conditioning units or chillers can disrupt the quiet living environment expected by residents. Soundproofing in these scenarios is critical to maintaining the harmony between the different functions of the space. Moreover, ensuring compliance with local and EU noise regulations, such as the EU Environmental Noise Directive 2002/49/EC, is essential in such environments to mitigate noise pollution and enhance residents’ quality of life.