The simulation of pressure waves in inlet and exhaust manifolds of internal combustion engines remains challenging. In this paper, a new model is presented in order to analyze these pressures waves without the use of a one-dimensional description of the system. It consists on studying the system using a frequency approach. In order to establish this model, a dynamic flow bench is used. The latter has been modified in order to generate waves in a gas which can be in motion or not. The inlet system is then characterized by its geometrical characteristics as well as the fluid characteristics. Indeed, the gas temperature and the gas velocity have a major impact on the fluid behaviour. The new model is then used in order to simulate the pressure waves into a 1-m pipe which is connected to a driven engine acting as a pulse generator. The experimental and the numerical results are in good agreement. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.