Industrial noise is a problem many face. It’s one that can cause all kinds of damage too, some of it permanent. We are an establishment that exists to help fight this problem. To do so, we provide products centred on noise control. We can design bespoke silencers for almost any need.
Sound is vibration moving through a medium like air. We’re able to perceive it because of our auditory system. Those vibrations or waves are cycles of rarefaction and compression. They rhythmically displace the medium’s molecules between the listener and sound source. These cycles/frequencies are quieter or louder; it depends on how much amplitude or energy the sound source inputs into the medium.
Sound pollution originates from many sources. These include power generation operations, industrial and construction machinery, and more. It leads to an unpleasant or uncomfortable work environment. In addition, it can lower a worker’s ability to communicate or hear equipment. Something like this can also be very dangerous.
One solution here is using foam materials to absorb unwanted sound vibrations. Foam is actually one of the materials used in industrial silencers too. So, continue reading if you’d like to know more about foam’s role in tackling sound.
Foam doesn’t block sound
It’s important to note that foam does not block sound. What it does is absorb it to varying degrees. Sound absorption enhances acoustic quality in an area by lowering the sound level. It also controls reverberation and echo. So, it can be a useful element of noise control.
As sound waves interact with objects in their way, the object absorbs specific frequencies. It then reflects others based on material properties. The level at which sound gets absorbed at separate frequencies is known as the material’s sound absorption coefficient. This measures the ratio of sound energy it absorbs against that which reflects back.
Two main mechanisms exist for how foam absorbs sound. Firstly is energy conversion, where vibratory energy converts to heat. Then there is trapped sound waves. Here, air pockets in the foam contain the noise. It is prevented from reflecting into the environment.
Foam has individual cell structures, which influence its airflow and permeability. In acoustic foam, there are two kinds. These are closed cell and open cell. Both come with a sponge-like interconnected structural network. As the name implies though, open cells are open on all sides. Closed cells have at least some membranes for keeping the cells separated and sealed. Open cells are more permeable, providing them with a higher sound absorption coefficient.
Thickness and density
These two key factors also influence sound absorption, especially frequency response. Denser, thicker foam increases acoustic impedance. This is a material’s natural opposition to sound waves of a certain frequency or band. As a result, it is vital to match sound-absorbing foam to the offending frequencies.
Do you need help with noise control?
At Ventx, we use our silencers to provide effective noise solutions. These installations work to keep those working in various environments safe, from warehouses to factories. The same also goes for any visitors to these sites.
So, if you’d like to work with us to improve noise control, please get in touch. We’ll deliver the most effective solutions and can offer advice for any kind of property.
