Noise--how loud is loud?

[johncedarhill]

First I would suggest to all or anyone who is concerned about "neighbor noise" purchase a Radio Shack Meter for 50 to 60 dollars.  I know it is easier to spend other peoples money but in the long run it might be worth the expense.    One man's quiet is another man' loud. I just got tired of what people described as quiet--I think many people exaggerate how quiet sounds are so I bought a meter. If you experiment a little you can see what affects noise level and act appropriately. If you want airgun decibel ratings,  I suggest you check out Straight Shooters.  I had no idea what 80 db really is which happens to be the safety threshold for continuous noise which can cause hearing damage. So here is a list of some common sounds and there noise level.

<50 quiet morning no wind at the lake

51-60 same loacation with a nice breeze

68 20 inch box fan

72 12 inch wood lathe on low speed

83 same lathe on high speed with the fan

68  garage door opener from inside the garage with metal chain

75-80 pretty loud radio

82 "loud" tv

92 hand clap so that the hand stings afterward

84 18 v drill

107 hand held stapler

109 hard hammer blow on wood

110 slammed car door

THese are db ratings about 1 foot or so  away.  Since sound level decreases with distance here is an example.  78 to 80 radio at a about 30 feet away drops to 55 to 60.

From the last couple of months my biggest surprises came from the sound generated from the target.  I do not have any numbers but the target noise can be much greater than you imagine.  Location of the noise source also makes a big difference--like under a porch in the garage etc. Some areas create an echo which makes sounds seem louder.  I suggest one purchase a meter to see what  actual noise levels are.  

Here is one I just did with a surprise result to me. A 2 gallon aircompressor which to me is extremely annoying registered 86. My ears are still ringing after a minute. the air discharge which is not really audible near the meter gives an air pressure reading of 95 but one would not even consider that as loud.

[NMCA_Ron]

I know the NHRA has instituted noise level restrictions on its SUPER class cars (i.e. Super Comp, Super Gas, Super Street) at 90 decibels as measured with said Radio Shack meter at  distance of 90 feet measured perpendicular to the car's centerline. The cars have been quieted dramatically from the days when they were measured over 110 db.