Soundproofing for rooftop chillers at Alliance Palace
Project Overview
Alliance Palace is a 41-story multifunctional complex located in the most prestigious area of Batumi, close to the beach and central boulevard. The first five floors are occupied by the Courtyard by Marriott hotel, while the upper levels (floors 6 to 41) consist of premium residential apartments.
The building management contacted DECIBEL, in collaboration with a local partner, to solve a serious noise problem coming from three large chillers installed on the exterior of the building. The chillers were producing up to 95 dB at the source, causing discomfort for residents and neighboring hotels.
Reducing Chiller Noise in a Residential High-Rise
Mechanical equipment such as chillers can create constant, high-volume noise that spreads through open areas and reflects off nearby buildings. In this case, the sound levels reached 61-62 dB at neighboring properties, above acceptable limits for residential zones.
The client needed a soundproofing solution that would bring noise levels down to within legal norms, without affecting access or airflow to the equipment.
Challenge
The main challenge was to reduce the noise coming from powerful rooftop chillers located in an exposed outdoor area. The chillers generated up to 95 dB at the source, which made them clearly audible in surrounding residential and hotel buildings. The solution needed to maintain easy access to the machines for maintenance and service, while still delivering high sound reduction performance.
Scope of Work
- On-site acoustic assessment of noise levels at the source and surrounding buildings
- Design of an outdoor soundproofing enclosure for chillers
- Fabrication and delivery of perforated metal acoustic panels
- Integration of a soundproof access door into the structure
- Collaboration with a local partner for implementation in Batumi
Solution
DECIBEL designed a custom acoustic enclosure using metal perforated soundproofing panels to surround the chillers. These panels were selected for their durability in outdoor conditions and their ability to absorb and block high-volume mechanical noise.
A soundproof access door was added to allow safe and easy entry for technicians. The system was engineered to ensure proper ventilation and performance of the chillers while delivering strong noise reduction.
Result
The expected sound reduction at the chiller source is between 16 and 19 dB, which brings down noise levels in nearby buildings from 61-62 dB to 43-45 dB. This range is within legal noise limits for residential areas and significantly improves comfort for residents and hotel guests.
The project demonstrates DECIBEL’s ability to deliver industrial soundproofing solutions that are effective, durable, and visually integrated into the built environment.
Ready to Solve External Noise from HVAC Systems?
DECIBEL designs soundproofing systems for chillers, HVAC equipment, and outdoor mechanical installations. Contact us for a custom solution that meets your legal and technical requirements.
