This study contrasts two modeling techniques proposed to accurately predict the influence of sintered fibrous metal (a non-woven structure of metallic fibers attached to one another by sintering processes), as a liner substitute, on sound attenuation performance and resulting noise emission for conventional aftermarket dissipative mufflers. Predicted values are compared to sound measurement data from stationary engine exhaust tests of a commercially available single-cylinder 450cc off-road motorcycle. The performance prediction techniques rely on the appropriate application and combination of pre-existing silencer design, engine exhaust and gas flow performance models as an economic alternative to more complex and expensive modeling programs that are typically beyond the reach of most small to medium-sized businesses in the motorcycle aftermarket industry. With respect to test results that showed approximate acoustical parity between mufflers containing the two different liner types, application limitations on the most suitable prediction technique are presented along with suggestions for further model refinement or additional physical testing. Further research is also invited to explore the impact of this liner substitution on muffler backpressure and its consequential impact on realized engine power.

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