Development of Sound Level Measurement Procedure for Small Engine Powered Equipment (Report of the SAE Small Engine Powered Equipment Subcommittee)

The paper describes work of the SAE Small Engine Powered Equipment Subcommittee in the development of a new sound level measurement procedure for small engine powered equipment. Data were gathered in an effort to improve the test site used in the measurement of exterior sound level of small engine powered equipment such as mowers, riding mowers, garden tractors, snowblowers, etc. A procedure was developed with a shorter measurement distance and an artificial test surface. The new procedure provides accurate, repeatable sound level data.