Acoustics

Testing, Calibration and Consultancy

National Institute for Airborne Acoustic Metrology

The National Institute of Airborne Acoustic Metrology (NIAAM) at the University of Salford is the UK Designated Institute for Sound in Air. NIAAM is appointed by the UK Government Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). 

What is a Designated Institute?

National Physical Laboratory (NPL) have overall responsibility for national measurement standards in the UK. However, as all areas of metrology are not covered by NPL, other institutes – known as Designated Institutes – can be appointed to be responsible for certain national standards. Airborne Acoustics, or Sound in Air, is one of these areas, with NIAAM appointed as the institute responsible for dissemination of Sound Pressure (Pa) in the UK by DSIT in 2022. NPL, NIAAM and the other Designated Institutes make up the National Measurement System (NMS).

Dissemination of Sound Pressure (Pa)

NIAAM offers dissemination of the unit of sound pressure (Pa) via its secondary microphone calibration service that represents the highest metrological level of microphone calibration in the UK:-

  • UKAS accredited calibration of pressure sensitivity of microphones to BS EN 61094-5: 2016 (Calibration Laboratory 0801)

Pattern Evaluation

NIAAM carries out pattern evaluation of airborne acoustic instrumentation (excluding electromagnetic compatibility testing):-

  • IEC 61672-2:2013 – Electroacoustics. Sound level meters. Pattern evaluation tests (to confirm conformance to IEC 61672-1:2013).
  • IEC 60942:2018 – Electroacoustics. Sound calibrators. Annex A Pattern evaluation tests

National Measurement System

NIAAM is part of the UK National Measurement System (NMS), a critical part of the UK’s research and innovation infrastructure. The NMS programmes deliver the UK’s Measurement Strategy, developed in consultation across industry, academia and Government. The NMS is delivered through DSIT with science programmes carried out by the UK’s designated measurement institutes:

UK & International Representation

NIAAM represents UK Acoustics, as the UK’s Designated Institute for Sound in Air:

Horizon Scanning & Metrology Challenges

NIAAM works alongside active academic research programmes at the Acoustic Research Centre at the University of Salford to:-

  • open up new areas of metrology research, including primary standard methods
  • provide horizon scanning of likely industry / research needs in acoustics
  • support metrology development in acoustics nationally and internationally by partnering in international comparisons and development of metrology standards

Examples of horizon scanning / metrology challenges:

  • Health: Hearing protection; aural diversity; subjective annoyance; soundscapes.
  • E-Mobility: Transition to electric vehicles; new noise challenges posed by quiet electric motors; brand identity; driver, passenger and pedestrian safety.
  • Satellites: developing capability in testing at high acoustic levels.
  • Construction and ECO-Building: new methods of construction; 3D printed building; air source heat pumps; extended ranges of measurement particularly low frequency.

For University of Salford standard acoustic calibrations of sound level meters, microphones and acoustic calibrators see our calibration page.

Contact Claire Lomax
e: c.lomax1@salford.ac.uk