Choosing the Right Acoustic Panel

The Acoustics Company – Fabric Acoustic Panel

Selecting the ideal acoustic panel involves a careful evaluation of multiple factors. These encompass the desired level of sound absorbency, installation location, and integration within your design scheme. In this guide, we will look at the key elements and available options, empowering you to make a decision that aligns seamlessly with your vision. These include:

• Purpose and application
• Technical and acoustic performance
• Installation
• Material
• Shape and size

DASSO Acoustic Panel

The function and usage of your space dictate the type of acoustic panel that best suits your needs. The sonic requirements in a concert hall or theater differ vastly from those in a bustling office or a serene restaurant. Panels can redirect, diffuse, or absorb sound, depending on your objectives. For instance:

• Concert halls and theaters: Redirecting panels enhance the acoustic experience for the audience while absorbing panels counter unwanted reverberation.
• Open-plan offices, call centers, and restaurants: Panels placed between workstations elevate privacy and speech clarity, transforming noisy spaces into havens of peace and focus.

Acoustic panels vary significantly in terms of technical performance, necessitating a tailored selection to match your project specifications. Key technical criteria to consider include the Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) and fire resistance.

The Noise Reduction Coefficient measures the sound absorbency of the acoustic panel, where 1 is the best (all sound absorbed), and 0 is the worst (no sound absorbed). It takes into account the average sound absorption measured at four specific frequencies within the range of 250 to 2000 Hz. This means that two panels with the same average might perform differently in environments exposed to different frequencies. This is why many professionals prefer to view acoustic curves, which show the absorption coefficient of the panel across different frequencies. Take note of recognized testing standards such as ISO 354.

In regard to fire rating/resistance, make sure the panel complies with fire ratings used in your country. For example, the Euroclass scale used in Europe goes from A to F (A being the most fire-resistant). In the US, scales such as ASTM 84 (where class A or class 1 is also the best) are often used.

Here’s the takeaway:

• Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC): A measure of sound absorbency, indicated on a scale from 0 to 1. Panels with higher NRC values excel in sound absorption.
• Fire Rating/Resistance: Ensure compliance with fire safety standards in your region (e.g., Euroclass scale in Europe or ASTM 84 in the US).

ESTEL Free-standing acoustic panel

The installation of acoustic panels is a vital consideration, as it could influence how effectively they perform. Acoustic panels can be fixed or mobile, integrated into partition walls, ceilings, or wall mounted. If you don’t have much wall space, you might want to consider acoustic ceilings or freestanding panels that can be used as space dividers. For large spaces with open or high ceilings, hanging panels or acoustic baffles distributed across the ceiling may be a good choice. If you have very specific acoustic requirements, a specialized engineer can help you calculate the best type, placement, and size of panels that will meet your needs.

FORM AT WOOD Wooden Acoustic Panel

The materials chosen for acoustic panels play a pivotal role in sound absorption and aesthetics. The most common materials used for acoustic panels include synthetic foams, fiberglass, wood, fabric, and metal. While some panels might be made from one single material, many panels have a foam layer and rigid core covered with fabric or another material. The combination of materials you choose can impact the level of sound absorbency and reflectiveness.

Acoustic foams such as polyurethane or melamine are economical but tend to be more fragile and less effective at absorbing lower frequencies than denser materials. This is why acoustic foams are often combined with other materials in acoustic panels.

Fiberglass has a high level of sound absorption and heat resistance but is difficult to recycle.

Mineral wool often contains a high percentage of recycled material and also has a high level of sound absorption. It is also moisture resistant and has a higher fire and heat resistance than fiberglass.

Fabric acoustic panels are available in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes, which can help decorate or add interest to spaces.

Metal acoustic panels are often available in perforated patterned designs for better sound absorption.

Wooden acoustic panels are available in slatted, perforated, engraved, and 3D designs ranging from individual panels to complete partition walls and drop ceilings. Wood wool acoustic panels have an open fiber structure, which improves sound absorption.

ECOPHON Circular Acoustic Panel

The size, shape, and surface of your acoustic panel can contribute to its sound-absorbing prowess and design appeal.

• Size: Larger panels tend to absorb more sound, making them suitable for spacious environments.
• Shape: Modular designs like square, hexagonal, and circular can be creatively arranged for added visual interest.
• Surface texture: 3D surfaces, including pyramidal, wavy, and geometric designs, enhance sound absorption compared to flat surfaces and add a touch of artistic flair.