Author: Cicha Ściana

Categories
Blog

The law of mass and the mass-spring-mass system

It is commonly believed that effective acoustic insulation requires the use of traditional building technologies characterized by solid, thick walls. However, modern approaches are capable of achieving equally impressive acoustic parameters. Physical phenomena and their understanding ultimately influence the acoustics of a building.

According to the physical law of mass, the acoustic insulation of a partition increases by 6 dB when its mass is doubled or when the frequency of the sound is doubled. Therefore, when selecting a building material for a partition, it is advisable to choose one with the highest possible surface mass. Popular choices include reinforced concrete for homogeneous partitions and hollow blocks or concrete blocks for masonry partitions.

But what about lightweight technologies such as frame structures?
The solution lies in a structure based on the mass-spring-mass principle. For the simplest example, it could be a construction consisting of: a wall – polyurethane foam insulation – gypsum board. Such a “sandwich” absorbs and dampens sounds and vibrations, and its effectiveness may be higher than that of a massive partition of the same thickness. With an increase in the surface mass of the outer coverings and a diversity and greater thickness of the used spring, the insulation effectiveness of the entire structure significantly increases.

Categories
Blog

The Rw coefficient: Key to Understanding Acoustic Wall Insulation.

The Rw coefficient is a key indicator that aids in evaluating the acoustic insulation of walls. Understanding this coefficient is essential for individuals who seek to enjoy peace and quiet in their own homes or workplaces. In this article, we will discuss what the Rw coefficient is, how it is measured, and how to interpret its value.

What is the Rw coefficient?

The Rw coefficient – weighted sound reduction index – is a measure of a wall’s ability to reduce the level of noise penetrating through it. This means that the higher the Rw value, the better the acoustic insulation of the wall. It is a crucial parameter both in the design of new buildings and in the renovation of existing ones.

How is the Rw coefficient measured?

The Rw value is calculated based on the results of tests conducted in accordance with international standards, such as ISO 717-1. During these tests, a sample of the wall is exposed to various frequencies of sound, simulating real-world conditions, and then the level of sound penetrating through it is measured.
These measurements are then processed and weighted to obtain the final Rw value. The Rw value is expressed in decibels (dB) and indicates the degree of sound attenuation. It’s worth noting that reducing noise by 6dB is perceived as a doubling of its reduction!!!
For example, a wall with a thickness of 150 mm made of solid brick – Rw 47dB, a wall made of perforated brick, with a thickness of 250 mm – Rw 48dB, cellular concrete with a thickness of 120 mm – Rw 36dB.

The Rw coefficient is of significant importance in the design of residential, office, hospital buildings, and other facilities where protection against external or neighboring noise is crucial.

In addition to Rw, other factors influencing acoustic insulation should also be taken into account, such as the method of installation, tightness of connections, degree of flanking transmission of sound, acoustic properties of materials used, and indirect sound transmission paths such as ventilation ducts.

Many countries have norms and regulations regarding minimum requirements for acoustic insulation in various types of buildings and rooms. Rw values must meet these requirements for a building to be considered compliant with the law.

Designers often strive to optimize Rw by using special insulation materials, structural solutions, or improving the building’s tightness. This ensures better acoustic comfort for users.

Categories
Blog

How to Create a Peaceful and Productive Office Environment?

The PN-B-02151-3 standard specifies permissible noise levels in various rooms of buildings, including workplaces. The permissible noise levels according to the standard depend on the nature of the work being performed and range from 40 to 55 dB.

This standard also specifies requirements for acoustic insulation of both internal and external walls. This is crucial for ensuring adequate acoustic comfort, especially in office spaces.

An effective work environment requires not only the right tools and technology but also a calm atmosphere conducive to focus and productivity. Noise in the office can be one of the main factors disrupting concentration and lowering employees’ efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to create an office environment that provides adequate acoustic insulation and enables effective work. In this article, we will examine how to create a peaceful and efficient office environment through proper acoustic insulation

One of the fundamental steps in ensuring a peaceful work environment is proper seating arrangements for employees. Teamwork can be highly effective, but it’s also important to provide privacy and tranquility for those who need focus. Therefore, it’s worth considering the implementation of an appropriate office layout that facilitates both collaboration and individual work in quieter zones.

Creating different acoustic zones in the office can help minimize noise penetration and provide adequate sound comfort for employees. Quiet zones can be designated for individual work, meeting or phone call areas, and open zones for collaboration and interaction. Each zone can be equipped with appropriate insulation and acoustic materials to effectively dampen sounds and ensure sufficient privacy.
Choosing the right insulation materials is crucial for effective acoustic insulation in the office. It’s worth seeking the services of specialists who can advise, design, and implement customized insulation systems tailored to individual needs. Acoustic panels, sound-absorbing carpets, blinds or curtains with enhanced acoustic insulation, and upholstered furniture can also contribute to sound absorption and noise reduction.

Categories
Bez kategorii

The Most Common Noise-Related Issues at Home and How to Solve Them

Noise in the home can be a bothersome issue that negatively impacts our daily lives. It’s worthwhile to recognize the most common noise-related problems and learn effective ways to address them in order to enjoy a peaceful and comfortable environment in our homes.

Neighbor Noise – neighbors generating noise can be one of the most common sources of bothersome sounds at home. From loud conversations and music to noise from children or pets – all of these can disturb our peace and comfort.
In the case of noise coming from behind walls, it’s worth implementing multi-layered isolation systems, in the form of a pre-wall barrier, based on materials with high density and mass. Such a construction effectively isolates vibrations and sounds of various frequencies, restoring comfortable conditions for work or rest.

Street Noise – whether it’s caused by car traffic, noise from nearby streets, or the bustle of busy areas, can be very bothersome, especially in apartments located close to the street. To minimize street noise, you can install windows with enhanced acoustic insulation, which will effectively reduce the penetration of external sounds. Additionally, heavier curtains or blinds can be applied to help dampen street noises as well.

Room Echoes – sounds reflecting off hard surfaces can lead to a deterioration in the acoustic quality at home. This can be particularly problematic in large, open spaces. To address the issue of echoes in rooms, it’s worth using soft sound-absorbing materials such as rugs, curtains, upholstered furniture, or acoustic panels. Additionally, you may consider using carpeting or rugs to help absorb sound and reduce echoes.

Home Appliance Noise – generated by household appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners, or air conditioners, can be very bothersome. To reduce the noise generated by household appliances, it’s worth choosing models with enhanced acoustic insulation (i.e., quieter ones with lower levels of emitted decibels) or using special sound-absorbing pads that will absorb vibrations and dampen the generated noise.

Categories
Blog

Acoustic Isolation and Quality of Life: Why It’s Worth Investing in Silence?

Silence is not merely the absence of sounds; it’s also a crucial element that can significantly impact the quality of our lives. In today’s world, where noise is pervasive and unavoidable, investing in acoustic isolation is becoming increasingly essential for our daily well-being. Noise can have a negative impact on our mental and physical health. Continuous exposure to loud sounds can lead to stress, difficulties in concentration, reduced sleep quality, and an increase in cortisol levels – the stress hormone. It affects many systems in the body, including the immune system, cardiovascular system, digestive system, and nervous system. Some of the negative effects of prolonged elevated cortisol levels include weakened immunity, increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, sleep disorders, heightened risk of depression and anxiety, memory and concentration problems, as well as metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes. Acoustic isolation helps limit the penetration of external sounds, leading to a calmer and more relaxing environment.

Sleep Quality
Undisturbed sleep is crucial for our overall health and well-being. Noise from outside can disrupt our sleep, leading to difficulties in falling asleep, frequent nighttime awakenings, and decreased sleep quality. With acoustic isolation, we can create a peaceful environment that promotes deep and uninterrupted sleep.

Work and Study Efficiency
Good acoustics in workplaces and learning environments are crucial for efficiency and productivity. Noise in offices, schools, or academic settings can hinder focus and concentration, leading to reduced performance. By implementing acoustic isolation, a calm and conducive working environment can be created, allowing employees and students to concentrate on their tasks.

Privacy Protection
Acoustic isolation not only helps limit the penetration of external sounds but also protects our internal privacy. With proper room soundproofing, we can feel comfortable having conversations, working, or relaxing without worrying that our conversations or actions will be audible to others.

Summary
In today’s fast-paced life, silence becomes a luxury that we increasingly need for our well-being. Investing in acoustic isolation can bring numerous benefits to our quality of life, improving both our mental and physical comfort, sleep quality, work and study efficiency, and protecting our privacy. Therefore, it’s worth considering how we can introduce isolation solutions into our homes, workplaces, and other spaces to enjoy peace and quiet every day.