A novel design for cruiser type motorcycle silencer based on micro-perforated elements

Regulations stipulating the design of motorcycle silencers are strict, especially when the unit incorporates fibrous absorbing materials. Therefore, innovative designs substituting such materials while still preserving acceptable level of characteristic sound are currently of interest. Micro perforated elements are innovative acoustic solutions, which silencing effect is based on the dissipation of the acoustic wave energy in a pattern of sub-millimeter apertures. Similarly to fibrous materials the micro-perforated materials have been proved to provide effective sound absorption in a wide frequency range. Additionally, the silencer is designed as a two-stage system that provides an optimal solution for a variety of exploitation conditions. In this paper a novel design for a cruiser type motorcycle silencer, based on micro-perforated elements, is presented. It has been demonstrated that the micro-perforated elements can successfully be used to achieve high attenuation of IC-engine noise in strictly limited circumstances. A technical description of the design and manufacturing of the prototype silencer is given and technological issues are discussed. The acoustical and aerodynamical performance of the silencer is characterized by transmission loss and pressure drop data. The influence of the two-stage system valve operation has been analyzed by studying the acoustics data and engine output characteristics. In addition to the experimental investigations, numerical 1-D models were developed for the optimization of the silencer geometry and the results are compared in a number of operating conditions. The studies have resulted in development of a silencer system for a small series cruiser type motorcycle. The first silencer prototypes have been tested on the motorcycle. While maintaining acceptable pressure drop characteristics, it has proven to comply with standard noise criteria without incorporating fibrous materials. The radiated motorcycle sound, as one of the key features of successful design, has been evaluated. The sound design has been recognized as well suitable for the product. Copyright © 2012 SAE International.