Mode Interactions and Sound Power Transmission Loss of Expansion Chambers

Abstract

The mode interactions and the sound transmission loss across the expansion chambers with and without tapered sections are studied by the finite element method in the present investigation. Results from chambers with symmetrical inlet and outlet suggest lower sound power transmission loss at frequencies below that of the first symmetrical transverse chamber mode when the tapered section angle is reduced. Weak sound power transmission loss is also observed for this chamber type at frequency higher than that of the first symmetrical duct mode. Numerous high and low sound power transmission loss regions are observed between these two eigenfrequencies. Higher plane wave power transmission loss can be found at smaller tapered section angle only if one of the chamber endings is not tapered. Such chamber bears important industrial application.