Study of Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) for Malaysian Army (MA) 3-Tonne Trucks

Moving vehicle will produce dynamic excitation and can be categorized in the study of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Studies of NVH can resolve issues associated with the use of a vehicle comfort. Exposure to some level of noise and vibration can be classified as a danger to vehicle passengers if they are exposed in a standard eight-hour time period. Therefore NVH aspect is the most important aspect in selecting a military vehicle other than the factor of safety, reliability, fuel consumption and maintenance costs. This study was carried out on Malaysian Army (MA) 3-tonne truck drivers who are exposed to noise and vibration produced by the truck. Vibration exposure at seat, steering wheel and body floor was measured using tri-axial and single axis accelerometers which were connected to a Brüel & Kjær Type 3649 vibration analyser, while noise exposure was measured at the drivers ear position using a DuO smart noise monitor. From the results obtained, both vibration and noise pressure levels increased proportionally with the increasing speed of the truck. In the long-term, will have an impact on the health of the truck drivers.