Acoustical Ceilings
An acoustical ceiling is a
soundproofing device that consists of a suspended ceiling grid and high sound absorption lay-in acoustical panels or tiles. Acoustical ceilings provide a lightweight and attractive ceiling system while controlling noise and sound. Acoustical ceilings, which are quickly installed, can be used to control the quality and level of sound effectively in a specific space. The material in an acoustical ceiling is used to alter a sound field, absorbing acoustical energy. Acoustical ceilings can be utilized in commercial, industrial, and architectural settings.
Acoustical ceilings are an ideal solution within the workplace, as they take up minimal space and are easily installed. The effectiveness of a particular acoustical device, such as a ceiling, is often measured by its NRC, or Noise Reduction Coefficient. The NRC is the percentage of acoustical energy absorbed by a material, calculated using data from several frequencies. Often the more surface area covered, the higher level of sound absorption achieved.
Noise absorbers like acoustical ceilings help to reduce noise reflection and dissipate noise energy, thus providing a more tolerable and pleasant work area or public space. They can help reduce outside
noise pollution levels in reflective environments, improve speech comprehension, and eliminate "background noise." Acoustical ceilings can have psychological as well as physiological benefits on individuals, improving communication and increasing overall productivity.
Besides its overall acoustical effectiveness, other important factors when choosing an acoustical ceiling include cost, safety, space, location, thickness, ease of installation, useful life, aesthetics and minimizing the disruption of daily operations.