Noise levels in my workshop
I measured several of the machines in my workshop today. This was inspired by the recently completed installation of a new table saw and new hoses to the existing dust collector. Perhaps we can use this thread as a database for machines and power tools to guide others.
Noise levels were measured using an iPhone app. The measured ambient noise in my workshop was 46db and my speech level 54 db, which indicate that the levels recorded were reasonably reliable.
Noise levels were recorded within 1m of the running machine.
Note: A European Union directive on noise, issued in 2015, requires companies across the Continent to provide hearing protection for workplaces with a noise level higher than 80 dB. From 85 dB on, employees are required to wear hearing protection.
The three main machines I have are by Hammer:
A3-31 Jointer-Thicknesser (silent head): 76db
N4400 Bandsaw: 78db
K3 Table Saw (12" blade combo blade by Stark): 93db (this appears louder than expected - I will try my Leuco blades next).
https://s19.postimg.org/5eg8iijz7/11a.jpg
The Festool C26E vacuum cleaner produced an interesting result. With the hose disconnected, the noise level measured 85db. However, connecting the 27mm hose, the noise level dropped to 80db.
The dust collector is a Carbatec 2HP. The machines were previously connected by 4" hoses, and the noise level was subjectively LOUD (I did not measure them, but I would guesstimate that they were around 95db). Changing to 5" hose appears to drop the level. Previously I could not put them on without hearing protection. Now I could talk over the machine! With 5" hoses, the DC measured 77db. I wonder if 6" hoses would lower the sound levels even more? Currently 5" is the largest I can go to without modifying the ports of the machines. I plan to do this when I eventually get a Clear Vue cyclone (my current dust control is supplemented by opening the garage doors and blowing out the dust).
https://s19.postimg.org/pkjqhefmr/10a.jpg
The Carbatec floor standing drill press (15 years old now) measured 63db.
The Tormek 2000 wet grinder measured 56 db.
http://www.inthewoodshop.com/Woodwor...l_5c5d41f4.jpg
The Carbatec 8" half-speed bench grinder with 2 CBN wheels measured 77 db.
The Carbatec 9" disk/belt sander combo measured 86 db.
Regards from Perth
Derek