Selecting the Correct Attenuating Solutions

Andy Milkins, General Manager at Acoustica – part of Elta Group, has taken time out of his busy schedule to discuss the importance of selecting the correct attenuating solutions…

Over the last few years, product regulations and the growing demand for energy consumption and environmental acoustic performance has amounted to considerable product development.

This has resulted in an increased level of acoustic attenuation being incorporated into many of the primary product sound sources. However in many cases this isn’t sufficient and additional attenuation is required in the form of Cylindrical and Rectangular duct attenuators, Acoustic Louvres and Acoustic Enclosures.

Growing Demands

The demand for acoustic attenuation is increasing through integration into mechanical noise sources, supplementary attenuation methods within a ducted system, acoustic barriers, noise source enclosures or absorption within the fabric of the building.

Although attenuation is often built in at the building design stage, it is becoming progressively popular for it to become a requirement further down the line. This allows for full testing to be practically carried out in the actual environment, as well as for real acoustic influencing factors to be accounted for.

Additionally, when in close proximity of residential dwellings, the commercial impact must also be compliant with the environmental legislation of the local authority. This is a challenging task in many cases, but one that can be overcome with a combination of attenuation techniques and products. Key to adhering to the vast requirements set by local authorities, is to ensure that an acoustic solution is available before planning consent is given.