This paper describes the development phases of a numerical-experimental integrated approach aimed at obtaining sufficiently accurate predictions of the noise field emitted by an external gear pump by means of some vibration measurements on its external casing. Harmonic response methods and vibroacoustic analyses were considered as the main tools of this methodology. FFT acceleration spectra were experimentally acquired only in some positions of a 8.5 cc/rev external gear pump casing for some working conditions and considered as external excitation boundary conditions for a FE quite simplified vibroacoustic model. The emitted noise field was computed considering the pump as a ‘black box’, without taking into account the complex dynamics of the gear tooth meshing process and the consequent fluid pressure and load distribution. Sound power tests, based on sound intensity measurements, as well as sound pressure measurements in some positions around the pump casing were performed for validation purposes. The comparisons between numerical and experimental results confirmed the potentiality of this approach in offering a good compromise between noise prediction accuracy and reduction of experimental and modelling requirements.

In the current study, investigations are made to control the MB truck cabin interior noise by reducing noise in the transmission path. The main sources of cabin noise include the engine, exhaust system, air inlet system, driveline system, and tyres (especially at higher speeds). Furthermore, vibrations of the body and interior parts of the truck may significantly impact the overall in-cabin sound level. Noise is transmitted into the cabin via air (airborne noise) and cabin structure (structure-borne noise). In the noise treatment phase, noise transmission paths are considered. A viscoelastic layer damping material is used to reduce the vibration amplitude of the cabin back wall. The overall loss factor and vibration amplitude reduction ratio for the structure treated is calculated. Computational results are then compared with the values obtained by the experimental modal analysis results. Choosing the suitable material and thickness can significantly reduce the vibration amplitude. A sound barrier, silicon adhesive, and foam are also utilised for noise control in the transmission path. The effectiveness of the mentioned acoustic materials on cabin noise reduction is evaluated experimentally. The experimental SPL values are reported in the frequency range of 20 Hz–20 kHz based on a 1/3 octave filter. The experimental results show that using acoustics materials reduces the overall in-cabin sound level for a wide range of frequencies.