Survey of exhaust and relief air noise control in performing arts and academic atria

Simple smoke hatches are increasingly deemed not adequate for the evacuation of smoke in public gathering areas. Project design requirements for CFD simulations using highly combustible sources have pushed mechanical engineers in many cases to design mechanically ventilated systems. But how do these perform in the real world and why are they often quieter than performance data may indicate? What additional benefits for interior acoustics may be afforded by these large shafts? Examples from performing arts and academic atria will be provided.