BLACKRIDGE & DISTRICT MODEL FLYING CLUB

NOISE TESTING

As a basis for our noise prevention procedure we have chosen to use the Department of the Environment Code of Practice for the minimisation of noise from model aircraft. Should there ever be a noise complaint against the Club then the inspectors from the DOE would appear at the site with a copy of this document and their noise meter. That's what they will use to decide if a complaint is to be upheld or not. In addition we will follow the BMFA 'method of measurement of noise emitted by a model aircraft' in conjunction with the DOE Code of Practice. That's as close as we can get to replicating the actual tests done by DOE officials.

The DOE Code of Practice states a maximum of 82dB at 7 metres in conjunction with natural barriers, hours of operation etc and a minimum distance of 500 metres from any noise sensitive buildings.

Noise tests already carried out at the Site show that this level is achievable with the proper engine/silencer/prop set up. We are currently finalizing the equipment, documentation, training and hardware necessary for noise testing every Club model prior to June 1st 2004 after which date only models which have passed the Club noise test will be allowed to fly at the site. This will include models brought by casual guests invited by Members as well. All models with an IC engine require testing, gliders and electric models are exempt.

Testing days at the Site will be arranged as required to give Members a chance to get their models tested and eligible to fly at the Site. A list of recommended props for various 2st engine sizes (with manufacturer's standard silencer) is included below and Members are asked to fit an appropriate one when submitting their model(s) for testing. The Club will purchase a selection of recommended props for use on the test days if required for trials but Members will then have to purchase the appropriate prop for their own models and resubmit for testing. Noise testing is fairly quick and a result (pass or fail) only takes minutes after the model is assembled and the engine started.

 

Recommended engine size/prop combination for reduced engine noise with std silencer.

2ST Engine size
.
0.20/.21 APC 9 x 6 RAM 9 x 6
0.40 APC 10 x 7 RAM 10x 7
0.46/53 APC 11 x 7 RAM 11x 7
0.61 APC 12 x 7 RAM 12x 7
Over 0.61 size engines not  tested.
 
RAM = Radio Active, black with grey tips

These props have shown in our tests to enable a significant reduction in noise emissions on selected engines. Fitting Graupner, Master etc produced higher noise outputs.

However, the props listed are not guaranteed to get a model to pass our Club noise test since final noise output level is dependant on individual engine, silencer, prop and model construction.

4st powered models are expected to be able to meet the Club noise test limit without modifying prop etc but will still require to take the noise test prior to flying at the Site after June 14th 2004.

Update December 2006 - in all cases the APC props gave the quietest readings and in almost every case enabled models to pass at less than 80dB at 7 metres.

 

It was only a matter of time before our Club had to introduce noise testing but these new housing developments around our Site have made it essential that we act quickly to ensure we retain our hard earned reputation for having not a single noise or safety complaint since we started up 26 years ago. We hope all our Club Members will cooperate in helping to keep our Club site at Heights Road viable. Many Clubs in our area already have Public noise complaints against them (it seems to be fashionable). Our goal is to prevent any complaints being made rather than fighting it out after a complaint is made.

 

So, fly safely and quietly (models that is, Members can natter away noisily all they want).