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Noise Source Abatement |
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Vehicle Noise Emission Standards
- The Noise Control Act of 1972
initiated noise regulations.
- The US Environmental
Protection Agency (US EPA)
gained authority to establish
noise regulations for new
vehicles and construction
equipment.
- US EPA established regulations
only for new trucks with gross
vehicle weight of more than
10,000 pounds.
- IDOT has no control over
vehicle noise emissions.
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Pavement Material
- At speeds greater than 30
mph, the dominant noise source
for automobiles is tire
interaction with pavement.
Alternative pavement material
and tire designs may reduce
noise.
- Pavement material is based
on economic and engineering
factors.
- Opportunities to modify
pavement material are generally
limited and should not
jeopardize safety.
- Noise characteristics will
change with time due to pavement
wear.
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Traffic
Restrictions
- Alternative truck routes
limiting the use of certain
roads or streets.
- Interstate commerce (i.e.,
trucks) cannot be prohibited
from using interstate highways.
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Speed
Limitations
- Reduced speeds would reduce
overall noise levels.
- A 20-mile per hour decrease is
needed for a noticeable (5
dBA) decrease in noise.
- Speed reductions decrease
roadway capacity and increase
congestion.
- Posted speed limits are based
on roadway design or speed
studies.
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Engine
Braking Restrictions
- Engine braking is also called
air braking.
- Engine braking is used by
diesel truck drivers to slow
down the vehicle.
- Consists of a truck
modification to use engine
compression for braking power.
- Sound it creates is a heavy
thumping from the motor.
- Areas can be signed to
prohibit engine braking.
- Due to occasional use of
engine braking, prohibition will
likely not reduce overall noise
level.
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