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The reduction and
control of noise, whether in machinery, buildings,
or rooms, generally involves the use of sound
absorbing materials and sound insulating materials.
These materials have different properties and are
used for different purposes, which can not be
interchanged. But due to confusion, both materials
often are misused.
Sound absorbing materials such as acoustical
tile, carpets and drapery plan an indispensable
part in controlling noise generated within a
room or in reverberant areas such as lobbies,
corridors and staircases. Although such
materials are highly effective as sound
absorbers, they are relatively poor sound
insulators because of their soft, porous and
lightweight construction. In short, they
transmit noise very easily. To illustrate this
point, imagine a wall constructed solely of
acoustical tile, carpet or drapery material.
Such a wall would provide virtually no
resistance to the passage of sound through it. A
brick wall on the other hand, is a very poor
absorber of sound but it is an extremely
effective sound insulator. Because it is
massive, it resists the passage of sound.
Because sound insulators and sound absorbers are
both called "acoustical treatment", confusion
arises between their proper uses. Improper
application of sound-absorbing treatment to
reduce the transmission of noise between
adjoining areas in an existing building has
often been an expensive and annoying error.
Warning!
Sound-absorbing materials are generally
light and porous. They should not be used on the
interior surface of one room with the sole
intention of preventing the transmission of
sound to the next room. The porosity of the
material actually facilitates sound
transmission!
Contact an All Tech Insulation engineer today
(989-826-9999)
for a deeper discussion about your specific acoustic requirements.
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