We at Ecotone Systems are pleased to announce the successful completion and commissioning of a specialized Hub Wheel Noise Test Booth for Sona BLW Precision Forgings Limited at their manufacturing facility in Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu. This project marks another milestone in Ecotone Systems’ continued commitment to delivering precision acoustic testing solutions for the automotive component manufacturing industry.
About the Project
Sona BLW Precision Forgings Limited is a globally recognized name in the design, manufacture, and supply of highly engineered, mission-critical automotive systems and components, including differential gears, starter motors, and hub wheel assemblies. As vehicle manufacturers and end users become increasingly sensitive to Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) characteristics, component-level noise testing has become a non-negotiable part of the quality assurance process. Recognizing this need, Sona BLW partnered with Ecotone Systems to design and install a dedicated Hub Wheel Noise Test Booth at their Chengalpattu facility.
Purpose of the Noise Test Booth
Hub wheel assemblies are critical rotating components that directly influence the ride quality, safety, and acoustic comfort of a vehicle. Any abnormal noise generated by bearing defects, misalignment, or manufacturing irregularities can significantly affect end-customer satisfaction and, in some cases, indicate deeper mechanical issues. The purpose-built noise test booth allows Sona BLW’s quality engineering team to:
- Accurately measure and analyze the acoustic emissions of hub wheel assemblies under simulated rotational conditions
- Detect abnormal bearing noise, grinding, humming, or rattling sounds before dispatch
- Ensure compliance with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) acoustic quality standards
- Maintain consistent, repeatable testing conditions isolated from ambient factory noise and vibration
Key Features of the Booth
The Hub Wheel Noise Test Booth was engineered as an acoustically isolated enclosure, designed to eliminate external noise interference and provide a controlled environment for precise sound measurement. Key elements of the installation typically include:
- Acoustic wall and ceiling panelling built with high-STC (Sound Transmission Class) rated sandwich panels to prevent noise leakage in and out of the chamber
- Vibration isolation flooring to prevent structure-borne noise from affecting test readings
- Acoustic doors and viewing windows that maintain sound insulation while allowing visual monitoring of the test process
- Integrated ventilation systems with silencers to maintain airflow and operator comfort without compromising acoustic integrity
- Test fixture mounting arrangements tailored specifically for hub wheel assemblies, allowing rotational testing under controlled load and speed conditions
- Lighting and interior finishes designed for operator visibility and ease of maintenance
Engineering Approach
Ecotone Systems’ engineering team worked closely with Sona BLW’s plant engineering and quality departments to understand the specific dimensional, acoustic, and workflow requirements of their hub wheel testing process. This collaborative approach ensured that the booth was not only acoustically effective but also seamlessly integrated into the existing production and quality-control workflow at the Chengalpattu facility, minimizing disruption during installation and commissioning.
Outcome and Client Benefit
With the new Hub Wheel Noise Test Booth in place, Sona BLW Precision Forgings Limited is now equipped to conduct in-house, standardized acoustic testing of hub wheel assemblies with greater accuracy and consistency. This enhances their ability to catch quality deviations early, reduce warranty-related returns, and reinforce their reputation for delivering precision-engineered automotive components that meet stringent global NVH standards.
Conclusion
The successful completion of this project reflects Ecotone Systems’ ongoing dedication to providing tailored acoustic testing infrastructure for the automotive and precision manufacturing sectors. We thank Sona BLW Precision Forgings Limited for their trust and collaboration, and we look forward to supporting their continued growth and quality excellence in future engagements.
For more information about custom noise test booths and acoustic testing solutions for industrial applications, feel free to reach out to the Ecotone Systems engineering team.
