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| Figure 1: Screen shot of on-line acoustic performance prediction tool for floors |
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| Figure 2: Screen shot of on-line acoustic performance prediction tool for walls |
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The new tool is able to estimate the acoustic insulation provided by different wall and floor systems used in steel construction. The tool allows the input of different materials and combinations enabling the user to carry out a ‘what if’ analysis before embarking on a detailed design.
Flooring choices include Tata Steel’s Slimdek system; composite flooring; light steel joists; modular; and precast units supported on steel beams. Users can also select from a range of floor treatments and ceiling options. Wall forms are based on light steel framing options including single frame or twin frames with or without acoustic quilting, and a range of different boarding options.
For both walls and floors the airborne sound insulation performance is predicted. Additionally, for floors the impact sound performance is predicted.
The acoustic performance values calculated by the tool are based on the empirical interpretation of actual test data obtained from structures in the residential, health and school sectors. The input parameters of the tool are constrained within specific limits to reflect the range of the source data that has been used to develop the empirical calculation procedure.
The values predicted by this on-line tool are only intended to be used for preliminary design purposes. This is because there are many factors other than specification of the wall or floor format that will affect acoustic performance. For example junction details, exact specification of products, the adjoining construction form and workmanship during construction can all affect real-world performance.
To access the tool go to: the web site.
For further information please contact Andrew Way at SCI (1344 636577; E-mail: a.way@steel-sci.com).
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