dBEL is designed for project developers, planners, manufacturers, utility companies, operators, installers and sales teams who want to address acoustic considerations at an early stage of their projects.

The application is particularly useful for site assessments, layout planning, option comparisons, customer consultations and the preparation of further technical studies.

dBEL uses recognised and standards-based calculation methods established in acoustic planning. The statutory regulations for the assessment of noise immissions, such as the Technical Instructions on Noise Abatement (TA Lärm) in Germany, generally require the application of ISO 9613-2. dBEL features a quality-assured implementation of ISO 9613-2, ensuring that the accuracy requirements of the method are met.  Buildings, terrain, distances, shielding effects and, depending on the product configuration, other project-specific boundary conditions can be taken into account in the model.

However, the reliability of a noise prediction always depends on the quality of the input data, the operating assumptions and the accuracy of the model. Therefore, particular care should be taken when defining sound power data, operating conditions, equipment locations and the assessment objectives.

dBEL does not replace a formal noise immission report in every project. The application is primarily intended to identify acoustic risks at an early stage, assess sites and design options and support subsequent planning activities.

Whether an additional report is required depends on factors such as the size of the project, the proximity of noise-sensitive areas, the permitting requirements, potential existing noise exposure and the requirements of the competent authorities. The dBEL report is also explicitly intended as a basis for decision-making and is not generally positioned as a formal noise immission report.

dBEL helps identifying unsuitable sites, critical equipment layouts and necessary noise protection measures before far-reaching planning decisions are made.

This allows design options to be prepared more effectively and relevant technical issues to be coordinated with specialist planners at an early stage. As a result, processing times can be significantly reduced, leading to effective cost savings.

The required input data depends on the specific application. Typically, the following information is required:

• Project site or address
• Type, number and position of the installations
• Sound power data and relevant operating conditions
• Planned operating hours

Environmental information is provided through preconfigured 3D geo models. The specific configuration of the required sound sources is defined during the onboarding process and users can independently create additional sound sources as needed. The calculated noise immissions are evaluated automatically by comparing the results with the requirements applicable to the respective area type.

No in-depth expertise in acoustics is required to use dBEL. The application is designed to make established calculation methods from acoustic planning accessible through guided workflows and preconfigured models.

During the onboarding process, users are introduced to the fundamental concepts, the modelling of sound sources and the appropriate interpretation of the results. Complex or specialised cases should continue to be reviewed in consultation with acoustic specialists.

dBEL presents the results in the form of noise maps and automatically generated PDF reports, among other formats. Depending on the application, the reports include, for example, relevant assessment levels, reference values or planning objectives, critical calculation points and the dominant sound sources.

This enables the results to be presented in a clear and transparent manner for internal planning as well as for discussions with customers, project partners, specialist planners and public authorities.

>> Learn more about the dBEL report in our blog post.

dBEL does not provide a freely accessible, comprehensive database of all devices available on the market.

However, the required sound sources can be stored either on a project-specific basis or within a user's account. Manufacturers can have their product portfolios converted into acoustic models, allowing their devices to be used in specific projects.

Once the account has been set up and the required sound sources have been configured, installation layouts and design options can be modified and recalculated directly within the application.

The time required depends on the size and complexity of the project. Simple site or layout options can typically be evaluated within minutes. Thanks to the flexible creation of design options, multiple scenarios can be generated intuitively and their acoustic impact can be visualised.

The cost of dBEL depends on the scope of use required. Getting started includes a one-time setup fee, including onboarding, as well as an annual licence. Setup currently starts at €3,000, while annual licence packages are available from €1,000. Depending on the number of projects, users and the required functionality, more comprehensive packages may be needed. Please feel free to contact us for a tailored, no-obligation quotation.

Yes, a free trial for a limited period is available. This allows you to explore dBEL using a suitable use case and determine whether the solution fits your processes. Please feel free to contact us so that we can arrange the access and define the scope of the trial together.

The availability of dBEL depends, among other factors, on the implemented assessment rules, reference values and the required geospatial data. dBEL is currently available for use in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands.

Please contact us if you would like to use dBEL for projects outside the currently supported markets. We will assess the configuration required for the respective country.