Shhh!

Ramstein is set to begin replacing C-130E models with the newer, quieter J models in 2009.

With the noticeable difference of a six-bladed composite propeller coupled to a Rolls-Royce turboprop engine, the C-130J means less noise.

According to Rainer Mueller, 435th Civil Engineer Squadron environmental flight chief, a comparison done here revealed the J model is much quieter than the E model.

“The noise data provided by the manufacturer was calculated on a theoretical basis only,” he said. “We wanted to know what the actual noise difference was in the real world.”

***image1***The comparison indicated that the landing noise of a J model is about three decibels less than the average landing noise of an E model.

“That may not sound like much, but as decibel is a logarithmic scale – three decibels less means a 50 percent reduction of noise,” said Mr. Mueller. “In other words, two C-130Js landing will produce the same noise as one C-130E.”

Mr. Mueller said the difference between the two models is up to 15 decibels when running the engines on the ground. That equates to a 94 percent noise reduction.
According to a local noise comparison test, the J model is consistently quieter than the E model except during a maximum power engine run.

Since the J and E models share similar ancillary start-up equipment, the noise levels during this particular test were about the same; however a maximum power engine run occurs less than 2 percent of the time.

“Ramstein will never become a totally silent place,” he said. “But replacing the C-130E model by the new J model is one step further in the constant willingness of the U.S. Air Force to decrease noise and increase the quality of life for on- and off-base residents.”

According to the Air Force’s C-130 fact sheet, the J model reduces manpower requirements, lowers operating and support costs and provides life-cycle cost savings over earlier C-130 models. Compared to older C-130s, the J model climbs faster and higher, flies farther at a higher cruise speed and takes off and lands in a shorter distance.

Ramstein is expected to begin receiving C-130J models in April 2009, which will replace its current fleet of C-130E models.