Acoustics have a big impact on a workstation’s ability to be as productive as possible. Poor acoustics can produce distractions that can detract from a team’s performance as a whole. Careful Acoustic Glass Partition design and specification can achieve a cost-saving and acoustic performance balance.
ACOUSTIC GLASS: WHAT IS IT?
Acoustic glass absorbs sound waves to reduce noise levels (also known as soundproof glass). An acoustic panel resembles conventional glass in appearance and transparency. Because it consists of two or more sheets of glass that are laminated or bonded together, acoustic glass differs from other forms of glass. A specialised interlayer known as PVB is sandwiched between the two sheets of glass to create a single piece of laminated glass from two sheets of glass. As a result, there is less sound that can be heard through the glass.
WHAT MEASURES SOUND REDUCTION?
The sound reduction index calculates how well a structure, like a glass wall, insulates or reduces sound. When sound waves hit an item, some of the waves bounce off the surface, some of the waves are absorbed by the object, and some of the waves travel through the object and are audible on the other side.
Laboratory testing is used to produce sound reduction ratings, and the results are presented as Rw dB. On the other hand, the second set of ratings is utilised because flanking transmission, or noise that travels along an indirect route, generally results in laboratory data being more accurate than on-site observations. Measurements taken on-site could be impacted by surrounding transmission. In site ratings, the DnTw dB notation is frequently used. In other words, while choosing or buying an acoustic device for sound suppression, the Rw rating is taken into account. A DnTw rating obtained on-site is used to validate the sound reduction system’s performance.
ARE ACOUSTIC GLASS PARTITIONS EFFECTIVE?
The degree of sound insulation is influenced by a number of factors. It could, however, significantly reduce noise and provide privacy if correctly positioned and the surrounding regions are adequately insulated. As a general rule, the RwdB levels at which conversations may or may not be heard with the installation of sound insulation or sound reduction walls are given. Glass barriers could achieve 30 Rw with a single layer of glass that is 12 millimetres thick. However, 50 Rw may be possible with glass walls that have two layers of glazing that are each 12 millimetres thick and an acoustic laminate. The glass system, the acoustic insulation offered by the surroundings, and many other things could have an impact on this.
ARE ACOUSTIC GLASS PARTITIONS EXPENSIVE?
Acoustic glass walls frequently cost more than regular glass dividers. This is because special processes are required to make particular materials. The use of two sheets of glass that have been cut, toughened, and laminated with an acoustic interlay is required for acoustic glass. Due to the increased time needed, installing acoustic mastic, insulated doors, and foam tracks may cost more than typical. Double-glazed partitioning systems are more expensive than single-glazed systems in terms of both material costs and installation costs.
WHAT ARE THE BEST PLACES TO USE ACOUSTIC GLASS?
Acoustic glass can be used for a variety of commercial and residential applications both inside and outside the home. Quieter environments allow for improved concentration, attention, and the upkeep of a healthy work environment for employees. To retain a sense of privacy in these places, the use of acoustic glass walls may also be required in sensitive interior areas and rooms. When employing double glazing to reduce sound transmission, acoustic glass is a fantastic choice. A wider gap between the two glass sides will increase the resistance of a double-glazed acoustic partition system.
