How do you reduce noise pollution in the workshop?

Sound absorption and sound insulation

When it comes to acoustic solutions, we distinguish between sound absorption and sound insulation. 

Sound absorption focuses on preventing sound reflections. Sound waves are absorbed by the material rather than reflected. As a result, the reverberation decreases and the increase in sound levels is also reduced. 

Sound insulation aims to prevent sound from traveling from one space to another. Instead of allowing sound waves to pass through, insulating material ensures that the sound is blocked. Sound insulation is usually achieved by adding solid materials in the form of extra mass or a so-called mass-spring system, where panel material is combined with a resilient acoustic decoupling. 

Depending on your situation, a combination of sound absorption and sound insulation can contribute to a comfortable acoustic environment in the workshop. 

What solutions are available to reduce noise nuisance in the workshop?

For industrial noise problems, we recommend addressing the noise as close to the source as possible. This is the most effective approach. Below, we explain some common applications. 

Reduce machine noise: 
Production machines are often a source of noise. Examples include engines, fans, pumps, saws, and similar equipment. By applying sound-absorbing material with vibration dampening at the correct location in the machine, this noise is contained at the source. As a result, the noise emission of the machine is reduced.  

Machine enclosure: 
When internal damping of a machine is not possible or does not yield sufficient results, a machine enclosure can be a solution. This prevents sound from spreading to the environment. By using acoustic sandwich panels, the sound is both absorbed and insulated, achieving optimal noise reduction.  

Partition walls: 
If a fully enclosed enclosure is not feasible, you can opt for a shield with a sound barrier. This physically separates a noisy area from the rest of the workshop. These walls are also made of sound-insulating sandwich panels. 

Space acoustic materials: 
Production rooms are often characterized by large volumes and the use of “hard” building materials. This causes reverberation, which results in sounds being transmitted undesirably. By applying sound-absorbing materials to walls and ceilings, such as acoustic baffles, ceiling islands or sound-absorbing wall panels, reflections are effectively reduced. As a result, the noise level in the workplace decreases, and both intelligibility and comfort are improved.  

Custom solutions

Every situation is different and requires a tailor-made solution. That is why we provide acoustic solutions that are fully adapted to your situation. Would you like advice for your specific space? Feel free to contact us, we are happy to help you.