Hush Absorber panels counteract reverberation levels

Reverberation noise is a potentially serious issue which affects many individuals over many commercial and industrial sectors.

Reverberation is caused by sound waves reflecting of a room’s surfaces.

The issue arises when a sound source stops within an enclosed space, for example people speaking within a room. The sound waves will continue to reflect off the room’s surfaces until they eventually stop. This reflected sound is known as reverberation and is affected by various factors including the size of the room, the surface finishes and the décor/styling.

Reverberation Time (RT) is the amount of time it takes for the reverberant sound to die down by 60dB fin when the original sound source stops.

Current interior design trends mean that highly reflective surfaces such as hard flooring and blinds are replacing carpets and curtains, therefore amplifying the ambient sound levels of the room.

How can we reduce reverberation sound levels?

Hush Acoustics has created the Hush Absorber range to counteract reverberation noise levels. The acoustic absorber panels have a Class A absorption rating and comply with UK Building Regulations Approved Document E (England & Wales), Section 5 of the Scottish Building Standards (Scotland) and Approved Part G (NI), in addition to BB93 Standards for Acoustics in Schools.

Available in a range of colours, sizes and finishes, the absorber panels can be fitted in either portrait or landscape orientation and to both walls or ceilings. 

Robert Crampton, Managing Director of Hush Acoustics, highlighted one instance where the Hush Absorber panels resolved ongoing reverberation problems in a school environment. 

He commented: “One of the worst cases of reverberation noise problems I have ever encountered was in a primary school, in particular their multi-use hall and dining area. School assemblies were often a struggle as reverberation noise levels meant speech clarity was poor, and as a result pupils concentration levels and learning abilities was adversely affected.

After we carried out a site inspection, we recommended the use of our Hush Absorber Panels and calculated the amount of absorption material needed in order to bring the school hall reverberation levels in line with BB93 guidelines. Installation of the panels was completed within two days and as a result there was a noticeable difference in the levels of reverberation noise. 

Teachers found it easier to present assemblies and there was a noticeable increase in the pupils concentration levels resulting in a more enjoyable and comprehensive learning experience.” 

The Hush Absorber 50 range of acoustic panels are manufactured using a Class O fire rated acoustic foam and have a Class A rating for absorption. The 50mm acoustic foam absorbs the reverberation noises meaning the reflected sound paths do not travel as far. It also features non-shedding qualities.

Hush Acoustics Ltd
Unit 2, Tinsley Industrial Estate
Shepcote Way
Sheffield
South Yorkshire
S9 1TH

Tel: 0114 551 8685
Fax: 0151 944 1146

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