As industries demand more eco-friendly and natural materials, natural fiber nonwoven felts are gaining traction across various sectors. At Bouckaert Industrial Textiles (BIT), we focus on producing high-performance needle-punched felts from 6 oz per square yard and up. Our felts meet the growing demand for sustainability while maintaining quality.
Explore how natural fiber nonwoven felts, including wool, rayon, jute, hemp, and cotton, are transforming industries from automotive to agriculture.
1. Wool Felts: Natural Fiber, Eco-Friendly, and Durable
Wool felts have natural properties like insulation, moisture-wicking, and flame resistance, making them a go-to solution across industries. Their ability to absorb sound, insulate against heat, and resist fire make wool felts a sustainable choice for both industrial and residential applications.
A. SAE/Buzz, Squeak, and Rattle (BSR) Applications
In the automotive industry, wool felts are used in BSR testing to reduce friction and dampen vibrations. This reduces wear and tear on mechanical parts, enhancing durability and sustainability. Automakers use wool felts in sensitive areas like door panels and instrument clusters to reduce noise, contributing to a quieter and more comfortable driving experience.
B. Equestrian Saddle Pads
Wool felts are widely used in saddle pads to provide comfort, moisture control, and insulation for horses and riders. Wool’s moisture-wicking properties help keep the horse’s back dry, and its natural cushioning reduces pressure points, making it a superior material for equestrian equipment.
C. Mattress and Furniture Padding
Wool felts are used in the mattress and furniture industries for padding and flame protection. Wool’s natural flame retardancy makes it a safer choice compared to synthetic materials. Its breathability and softness provide added comfort, which is why it’s increasingly being used in luxury mattresses and eco-friendly furniture designs.
In the furniture industry, wool felts are used as padding in chairs, sofas, and upholstered goods. With consumers demanding more sustainable furniture options, wool’s renewable and biodegradable qualities make it an attractive alternative to synthetic foams.
D. Undercarpet Padding
For interior applications, wool felts serve as under-carpet padding, offering noise reduction and comfort while being naturally fire-resistant. Wool’s durability ensures that carpets last longer and provide better insulation, both thermal and acoustic.
E. Acoustic Panels and Batts for Office Interiors
BIT is pushing into the market for wool acoustic panels and batts in office interiors, providing sustainable sound insulation for modern workspaces. Wool’s natural sound absorption and flame retardancy make it ideal for open-plan offices and meeting rooms. As businesses seek quieter, more productive environments, sustainable materials like wool are gaining popularity in interior design.
In green building projects, wool is increasingly being used for acoustic panels and insulation. Its ability to regulate temperature and absorb noise makes it an excellent material for reducing energy consumption and improving workplace comfort.
2. Rayon Felts: Versatile Natural Fiber Solutions
Rayon felts offer excellent sustainability and performance for a range of industries. Derived from natural sources like wood pulp, rayon provides a renewable, biodegradable option for a variety of applications.
A. Hydroponic Growing Media
Rayon felts are increasingly used as growing media in hydroponic systems. These felts provide water retention and root support, making them ideal for urban and vertical farming. The ability to hold moisture while remaining lightweight makes rayon felts suitable for growing vegetables and herbs in controlled environments.
In hydroponic systems, where traditional soil is replaced by nutrient-rich water, rayon felts provide an essential structure for plant roots to thrive. Rayon’s biodegradable nature ensures that it doesn’t leave behind harmful waste, making it an ideal solution for environmentally conscious urban farms.
B. Medical and Orthopedic Uses
Rayon felts are used in medical dressings and orthopedic padding for their softness, absorbency, and biodegradability. In the medical industry, rayon felts are used in wound care products, such as bandages, where their softness and moisture retention help promote healing.
In orthopedic applications, rayon felts provide cushioning for devices like prosthetics and braces. The ability of rayon to conform to the body and its hypoallergenic properties make it a superior material for sensitive medical uses. Its biodegradability ensures that it reduces environmental impact once discarded.
3. Cotton Felts: Sustainable Natural Fiber for Padding
Though not a focus at BIT due to flammability issues, cotton felts, including recycled shoddy, are still a popular natural fiber option across industries. Cotton, particularly recycled cotton, is being used more frequently in the furniture and bedding industries as consumers demand more eco-friendly options.
A. Mattress and Furniture Padding
Recycled cotton felts are widely used in the mattress and furniture industries for padding. Offering a more sustainable alternative to synthetics, cotton felts provide comfort and breathability. Recycled cotton (often referred to as shoddy) is made from post-consumer denim and other fabrics, giving it a second life as padding material.
In mattresses, cotton felts serve as a cushioning layer that also helps regulate temperature. In furniture, these felts are often used in upholstery, contributing to more eco-conscious designs without sacrificing comfort or durability.
B. Insulation from Recycled Denim
Recycled cotton felts (shoddy), especially from denim, are used as thermal and acoustic insulation in eco-friendly construction projects. Denim-based felts are highly effective at absorbing sound and regulating heat, making them ideal for use in walls, floors, and ceilings in sustainable buildings.
4. Jute and Hemp: Natural Fibers for Automotive and Packaging
Jute and hemp fibers are becoming prominent in the automotive industry and for sustainable packaging. These bast fibers offer strength, flexibility, and biodegradability, making them ideal for applications where synthetic materials might otherwise be used.
A. Automotive Molded Parts and Acoustics
Jute and hemp fibers are increasingly used in the automotive industry for molded parts and acoustic insulation. These fibers provide lightweight yet durable solutions for door panels, trunk liners, dashboards, and other internal components. The stiffness and strength of jute and hemp make them ideal for producing moldable, environmentally friendly parts that maintain structural integrity under stress.
Hemp and jute are also effective in reducing cabin noise, contributing to a more comfortable driving experience. Automakers are looking for alternatives to petrochemical-based products, and bast fibers are offering a sustainable solution without compromising performance.
B. Eco-Friendly Packaging and Insulation
Jute and hemp are used in eco-friendly packaging and insulation, offering biodegradable and cost-effective alternatives for various industries. As packaging materials, they provide cushioning and support, while also being compostable at the end of their lifecycle.
C. Agricultural Textiles
Hemp and jute felts are used in agricultural textiles for erosion prevention and weed control. These materials decompose into the soil and enrich it with organic matter. Jute and hemp-based textiles are ideal for use in landscaping, farming, and other outdoor applications where biodegradability is a key concern.
5. Additional Applications for Natural Fiber Nonwoven Felts
Natural fiber nonwoven felts are also used in niche applications, such as:
Soundproofing in Green Buildings: Wool, rayon, and cotton felts are used for soundproofing walls in sustainable construction projects.
Protective Packaging for Fragile Goods: Wool and cotton felts are used to protect fragile items like electronics and glass during shipping. These materials provide cushioning without relying on plastic or foam.
Conclusion: The Future of Natural Fiber Nonwoven Felts
At Bouckaert Industrial Textiles, we are committed to producing high-quality, eco-friendly natural fiber nonwoven felts to meet the growing demand for sustainable materials. From wool felts used in automotive and equestrian applications to rayon felts supporting hydroponic agriculture, we ensure our materials contribute to a greener future.
As industries continue to innovate and search for greener solutions, natural fibers like wool, rayon, and hemp will play a crucial role in providing durable, eco-friendly felts for a wide range of applications.
The electric vehicle (EV) industry is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by advancements in battery technology, sustainability demands, and governmental pushes toward greener transportation. As manufacturers continue to refine the components that make EVs efficient and reliable, one often overlooked material is playing an essential role—nonwoven felts in electric vehicles. These materials, known for their versatility, durability, and thermal resistance, are becoming key components in the design and manufacturing of electric vehicles.
From thermal management in battery systems to acoustic insulation and lightweighting, nonwoven felts are integral to addressing the unique challenges presented by EV technology. This article explores how these materials are shaping the future of electric vehicle innovation.
Nonwoven Felts in Thermal Management for Electric Vehicles
One of the most critical challenges in electric vehicle design is managing the significant amount of heat generated by the lithium-ion batteries used to power these vehicles. Excessive heat not only reduces battery efficiency but also poses safety risks, such as thermal runaway, where overheating can lead to fire hazards.
Nonwoven felts, particularly those infused with aerogels or other high-performance insulating materials, are playing a vital role in mitigating these risks. These felts are often used as thermal barriers between the battery cells, helping to control the heat generated during charging and discharging cycles.
Aerogel-Infused Nonwoven Felts for Battery Insulation
Aerogels are among the most effective insulating materials available today, known for their extremely low thermal conductivity. When combined with nonwoven felts, these materials create lightweight, flexible thermal barriers that can maintain the battery’s operating temperature within safe and efficient limits. This is particularly crucial as EVs push for longer ranges, requiring batteries to hold and discharge more energy without compromising safety.
Additionally, nonwoven felts help prevent thermal propagation—the spread of heat between cells—by acting as a barrier in the event of a single cell failure. This localized control of heat can reduce the risk of a total battery failure and extend the vehicle’s operational safety. Read more about managing thermal runaway in EV batteries.
Acoustic Insulation for Quieter EV Experiences
Another challenge that EV manufacturers face is the reduction of noise. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, which generate significant noise through the engine and exhaust system, EVs are nearly silent. While this is often marketed as an advantage, the absence of engine noise means that other, previously masked sounds, such as road noise, tire hum, and wind, become more noticeable.
Nonwoven felts in electric vehicles are well-suited to address these acoustic challenges. Their dense, fibrous structure makes them ideal for sound absorption. In EVs, nonwoven felts are being used in areas like:
Interior cabin insulation: To minimize the transfer of external noise into the cabin.
Underbody soundproofing: To dampen road and tire noise, improving passenger comfort.
Engine bay and electric motor housing: While electric motors are quieter than traditional engines, they still generate high-frequency noise that can be disruptive. Nonwoven felts help dampen this sound effectively.
Incorporating nonwoven felts into EV designs for acoustic management not only enhances the driving experience but also helps manufacturers meet increasingly stringent noise regulations, particularly in urban environments.
Lightweighting with Nonwoven Felts in Electric Vehicles
One of the most important goals for EV manufacturers is reducing the overall weight of vehicles. Lighter vehicles are more energy-efficient, which directly translates into longer driving ranges—a key factor in consumer acceptance of EV technology. Nonwoven felts in electric vehicles offer a versatile, lightweight solution for a variety of applications where traditional materials would add unnecessary bulk.
Replacing Traditional Insulation Materials
In conventional vehicles, materials such as heavy foam or plastic-based insulation are commonly used for thermal and acoustic management. However, these materials add weight, which can reduce fuel efficiency or, in the case of EVs, limit the vehicle’s range. Nonwoven felts, on the other hand, provide comparable or better performance at a fraction of the weight.
Lightweight Heat Shields
Nonwoven felts are also used in lightweight heat shields for electric motors and battery components. These materials offer the required thermal protection without the weight penalty associated with metal heat shields. This is especially important as manufacturers push the boundaries of EV performance, where weight savings can significantly impact range and efficiency.
Sustainability and Recyclability of Nonwoven Felts
As the world shifts towards more sustainable practices, the recyclability and environmental footprint of materials used in manufacturing are becoming increasingly important. Nonwoven felts, especially those made from recycled fibers or natural materials, offer a more sustainable alternative to traditional insulation and structural components.
EV manufacturers are under pressure to not only reduce the emissions of their vehicles but also to lower the environmental impact of their entire production process. By incorporating nonwoven felts, manufacturers can contribute to a circular economy, where materials are reused and recycled, reducing the overall demand for virgin materials.
BIT’s nonwoven felts, for example, are produced using efficient manufacturing techniques that minimize waste and energy consumption, aligning with the broader goals of the electric vehicle industry to create more sustainable products.
Future of Nonwoven Felts in EV Applications
As electric vehicle technology continues to evolve, so too will the applications for nonwoven felts. Future innovations may include:
Advanced thermal management systems: Nonwoven felts combined with phase change materials (PCMs) or smart textiles that actively respond to temperature changes.
Enhanced acoustic solutions: Felts that incorporate nanotechnology or smart fibers to further enhance sound absorption and noise-canceling properties.
Bio-based nonwoven felts: As sustainability becomes an even greater focus, bio-based and biodegradable nonwoven felts will likely play a larger role in EV manufacturing.
The versatility, lightweight properties, and superior insulation capabilities of nonwoven felts make them an essential material in the ongoing innovation of electric vehicles. From increasing range to improving safety and comfort, these materials will continue to be a crucial part of the EV revolution.
Conclusion
As the electric vehicle market accelerates, nonwoven felts are poised to become even more integral to vehicle design and performance. Their ability to provide superior thermal management, noise reduction, and lightweight construction makes them ideal for addressing the unique challenges of EV technology. By leveraging the benefits of nonwoven felts, manufacturers can improve the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of their vehicles, driving the future of transportation towards a greener, more innovative horizon.
In the constantly evolving world of interior design, the combination of form and function has become essential to have effective sound control in a multitude of spaces. A new solution that provides the benefits of sound control while being equally functional for your space is furniture acoustics. Beyond the aesthetic appeal of furniture, there lies a crucial consideration that often goes unnoticed, which is the impact of acoustic design on the overall ambiance of a space. As our living and working environments become increasingly open and dynamic, the need to address acoustical challenges has become more pronounced than ever.
This article will discuss the basics of furniture acoustics, unraveling the science behind its functionality, and exploring the many different solutions available. From the living room to the office, the acoustics of our surroundings play a pivotal role in shaping our experiences. Understanding how furniture can contribute to a functional auditory environment not only adds a layer of sophistication to design, but also enhances the overall comfort and functionality of a space.
What are Furniture Acoustics?
Furniture acoustics is a specialized branch of interior design that focuses on optimizing the sound environment within a space through the strategic integration of furniture elements. Beyond the conventional role of furniture as decorative or functional pieces, these acoustic solutions are engineered to absorb, diffuse, or redirect sound waves, mitigating issues such as noise, echoes, and reverberation. The effectiveness of furniture acoustics lies in its ability to strike a delicate balance between aesthetics and functionality. By seamlessly incorporating acoustic features into furniture design, spaces can achieve a harmonious auditory atmosphere while maintaining a visually appealing and cohesive aesthetic. Whether in residential, commercial, or communal settings, furniture acoustics address the challenges posed by modern architectural trends, creating environments where comfort and style work together to enhance the overall quality of the acoustic experience.
Benefits of Furniture Acoustics
Furniture acoustics offer a multitude of benefits that extend beyond mere sound management, contributing significantly to the overall well-being and functionality of interior spaces. One primary advantage lies in the creation of a more conducive environment for communication. In open-plan offices, collaborative workspaces, or residential areas, excess noise can impede effective communication and productivity. Thoughtfully designed acoustic furniture helps to minimize disruptions, allowing individuals to concentrate on their tasks without the constant intrusion of ambient noise.
Furniture acoustics play a pivotal role in enhancing privacy within shared spaces. By incorporating sound-absorbing materials like polyester felt into furniture pieces, such as sofas, partitions, or room dividers, these solutions create zones where confidential conversations can occur without fear of eavesdropping. This feature proves invaluable in offices, where confidentiality is preferred, or in open living spaces where family members may seek private moments amidst shared environments.
Beyond its functional advantages, furniture acoustics also contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of a space. Acoustic elements integrated into furniture design provide an opportunity to merge form and function, offering a visually pleasing solution to sound-related challenges. These solutions can be customized to complement the existing decor, allowing for a cohesive and stylish integration within diverse design schemes.
Furthermore, the health and well-being of occupants are positively influenced by effective furniture acoustics. Reduction of excessive noise levels can contribute to stress reduction, improved concentration, and better overall mental health. As our living and working spaces continue to evolve, the benefits of furniture acoustics position it as an integral aspect of contemporary design, enriching our environments with both auditory comfort and aesthetic sophistication.
What options are available?
Furniture acoustics encompasses a diverse array of solutions, each tailored to address specific sound-related challenges in various environments. One common type of acoustic furniture is sound-absorbing seating, which integrates materials like polyester felt or fabric designed to absorb and dampen sound waves. These seating solutions are particularly effective in spaces where conversations or meetings occur, such as offices or living rooms, promoting clear communication while minimizing noise disruptions.
Room dividers and partitions represent another category of acoustic furniture, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. These pieces are engineered with sound-absorbing materials to create visual and acoustic separation within open spaces, fostering a sense of privacy and concentration. In offices, they facilitate the division of workstations without compromising the benefits of a collaborative environment, while in homes, they offer flexible solutions for defining separate areas within shared living spaces.
Acoustic panels and wall-mounted treatments represent versatile options for enhancing sound control. These panels, often crafted from fabric-wrapped materials or perforated wood, can be strategically placed on walls to absorb and diffuse sound reflections, reducing echo and improving overall room acoustics. They are particularly effective in large, open spaces like conference rooms, auditoriums, or residential areas with high ceilings.
Innovative designs also explore the integration of sound-absorbing materials directly into furniture pieces like cabinets, shelves, and bookcases. These multifunctional solutions not only contribute to the reduction of ambient noise but also provide additional storage and display options. This integration seamlessly combines practicality with acoustic efficiency, allowing for the creation of functional and aesthetically pleasing environments.
One of acoustic furniture’s biggest benefits
The benefits of these diverse furniture acoustic solutions are manifold. They include improved speech intelligibility, enhanced concentration, increased privacy, and the creation of visually appealing spaces. However, there is one overarching benefit to acoustic furniture that often gets overlooked: durability and low maintenance requirements.
Durability and Easy Maintenance
Unlike traditional soundproofing methods that may degrade or require frequent replacements, acoustic furniture solutions often boast a longevity that significantly surpasses other alternatives. The high-quality materials commonly used in acoustic furniture, such as acoustic felt, foam, fabric, or sound-absorbing panels, are chosen for their resilience and longevity. These materials are engineered to withstand the test of time, maintaining their acoustic properties and structural integrity even under prolonged exposure to environmental factors.
For example, at Bouckaert Industrial Textiles, we manufacture non-woven polyester felt, and use recycled materials to create long-lasting acoustic solutions. Our felt is precisely engineered to deliver superior sound absorption while remaining visually attractive. Bouckaert offers a wide range of colors, thicknesses, and fire safety certifications to suit the needs of any project.
Minimal upkeep is another compelling feature of acoustic furniture. The maintenance requirements are typically straightforward and involve routine cleaning to remove dust or dirt particles that may accumulate over time. Many acoustic materials are designed to be stain-resistant and easy to clean, requiring only periodic attention to uphold their aesthetic appeal and acoustic effectiveness. This ease of maintenance translates to less time and effort spent on caring for these pieces, allowing occupants to enjoy the benefits of improved acoustics without the burden of extensive upkeep.
Conclusion
By incorporating thoughtful furniture acoustic solutions, you can cultivate a more comfortable, productive, and aesthetically pleasing environment. Whether you’re designing a modern office space, a relaxing living room, or any space in between, acoustic furniture offers a practical and stylish way to achieve optimal sound control. Bouckaert, a trusted supplier of high-quality acoustic felt, can be a valuable partner in transforming your space with both function and beauty.
Restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels; we leave the comfort of our homes to indulge in these spaces.
COVID-19 restrictions have eased and the long-desired opportunity to frequent our forgotten social lives is now present. Properly designed noise control measures in your public spaces can make a difference between a returning customer and a bad Yelp review in these post pandemic times.
Sound: A Health Risk
We cannot escape noise. Our daily lives are inundated with a variety of sounds from the landscapers outside our homes to the swirling conversations surrounding us at the bar.
The most serious potential risks to our health are:
hearing loss
hearing impairment
tinnitus
But the most pervasive effects trigger issues with our physiological health.
Fact: Sound levels above 85 dB are considered harmful. Exposure to sound levels at or above 120 dB can cause immediate damage.
Sound disrupts our sleep, concentration, heightens our stressors by releasing cortisol, elevates blood pressure and heart rate…
And, to put it simply, too much sound is annoying. We don’t see noise or feel it, so we write off issues as non-noise induced. But for the average guest, noisy spaces make for uncomfortable environments.
Why So Noisy?
The number one complaint when dining out is poor service. The second is noise.
So when did the hospitality industry become so noisy? And why?
The trending upward levels of noise may have started in the mid-1990s with well known chef Mario Batali when he began playing the music in the kitchen and dining area. Now it has become commonplace to amp up the volume to create a “buzz” that draws people in.
It has also become a tactic for quicker turnaround. Research has shown that restaurant and bar owners use excessive levels of noise because it pushes patrons to eat faster thereby leaving sooner.
All five of our senses influence our perceived reality of not only places, but the food and drinks we consume. But further scientific research has shown evidence that noise interferes with our sense of taste. Because noise is a distractive nuisance, it becomes easy to mess with the senses.
Other purposeful choices in décor amplify noise. Modern design trends are the greatest conductors of sound. Gone are the days of plush booths and tablecloths; elements of style that helped dampen noisy spaces. Substituted with glass tables and bare floors, sound now bounces around freely with little absorption opportunities.
Where to Look for Acoustic Problems
To understand sound, it is good to know the basics of how sound travels.
Sound is vibrational energy. There is direct sound which travels directly from the source to the receiving end (for example, you and your partner talking over breakfast in your apartment). And then there is reflected sound. Reflected sound is direct sound bouncing off walls, floors and other mediums. The reflected sound is what gives us reverberations or echo. And why sound becomes exasperated in most spaces.
Think of a disco ball except with loud music, kitchen sounds, employees working, and the rolling conversations all overlap and bounce off one another making for, “Say that again” and “I can’t hear you” staple quotes of the night.
Sound treatment can be expensive. Hiring acoustic engineers and sound consultants can drive up the price. And altering your already designed interior can create issues for an already established institution.
There are simple ways to addressing noise issues without mind blowing renovations. First, taking inventory of intentional noise practices (as we mentioned, loud music) coupled with the décor of your space will help you pinpoint where sound is amplified.
Keep in mind the materials in your space (hard materials like steel or glass are non-absorbing) and the landscape of your interior. A cheap alternative to testing for room acoustics is a simple clap test. In your space, clap your hands together and wait to hear for the initial “slap” followed by its echo. The longer the sound continues, the more reverberation time your room holds. It’s an easy way to hear for where your acoustical problems lie.
Balancing Noise Levels with Acoustic Treatment
Thankfully, acousticissues in your space are not a unique problem. And most acoustic insulation solutions do not have to take away from the defined aesthetic of your brand.
The addition of acoustic panels improves sound quality by reducing the amount of reflected sound. Materials like PET (recycled polyester) absorb sound waves, dampening the sound by transferring the vibrational energy into kinetic energy, or heat. And they come in a variety of forms. Placing your acoustic panels accordingly (and relative to your space and its dimensions), you can effectively mitigate noise.
What Types of Acoustic Panels are Best for You?
Sound is the main issue. Turning off the music won’t change sound traveling. To find the right acoustic treatment, you need to take these things in to consideration:
Dimensions of your space (high ceilings, etc.)
Furniture materials, flooring, windows, doors
Noise absorbing material and “dead” space
Keep in mind the tone of your space. Acoustic panels do not have to dull the vibe; with so many options and designs, you can enhance without compromise.
Here are some acoustic solutions that can fit in to your space.
Acoustic Panels and Art
Acoustic panels can be any size and shape, placed in a variety of configurations at designated reflections points. In this scenario, less can be more, enhancing walls with modern visuals.
Acoustic panels can also double as artwork. Stock photos or custom images can be printed onto any size panel to give you a piece of artwork that works as your sound dampening tool. And in our post-COVID world, you can utilize acoustic panels as custom dividers (movable or fixed) for designated areas that will buffer sound and maintain safety regulations. They can also act like booths without the bulky nature.
Ceiling Baffles and Clouds
To better your bar and restaurant guests’ experience, hanging acoustic solutions can mitigate noise in a non-conspicuous manner. Or conspicuous: they are perfect examples of how to create artistic focal points in your space. Depending on shape and size, they are effective at tuning out unwanted noise in greater ranges of angles.
Plus, they can double as lighting fixtures, creating a two for one in your space’s décor.
Absorbent Furniture
One product, multiple functions. Sound absorbing furniture works well for physical comfort and sound buffering. In modern and sleek establishments, complimenting stark lines with plush furniture in lobby and rest areas soften trending contemporary styles and invite your patron so stay.
You Don’t Need to Reinvent the Wheel for Sound Management
Rendering your space acoustically “healthy” for patrons (and employees) can be easy without re-designing.
At BIT, we manufacture our Poly-Sonic Acoustic panel line to meet any acoustical need. Our panels are 100% polyester, free of any fiberglass or VOC, and customizable for all specialized products. From rolled good to hanging baffles, our partially recycled acoustic panels create top quality finished products.
In design, sound matters. The function of a space is not determined by its aesthetics only but also by the sounds it makes.
“Sound may be invisible or only unconsciously perceived, but that doesn’t make it any less an architectural material than wood, glass, concrete, stone or light.” – Michael Kimmelman.
Sound inextricably becomes attached to function. But because design begins first on paper, it isn’t until we inhabit a room that we determine how to relegate noise.
The growing popularity of decorative acoustic felt panel installation proves that balancing the acoustics of a space does not have to clash with its original design elements. Although it’s true one size does not fit all when it comes to acoustic treatment, polyester felt is proving to be the choice material for acoustic felt panels by the design industry.
What is PET?
Polyethylene terephthalate, or PET, is a thermoplastic polymer resin comprised of recycled transparent plastics. PET is frequently referred to as polyester in textile applications but retains its acronym PET regarding packaging, bottling, etc.
Polyester was first patented in the 1940s by Dupont chemists in Delaware, U.S.A, as a new textile fiber. It wasn’t until the 1970s that new technology made it possible to mold PET into bottles. Today, it is the number one recycled plastic worldwide.
PET is highly flexible in its natural state and therefore easily moldable for its end use depending upon how it is processed. Its applications as the number one recycled plastic range from food packaging and bottling to fabrics to thermoforming in manufacturing and automotive insulation.
The textile industry is a significant end-user of PET, making up about 60% of overall PET consumption.
What is Polyester Felt?
Polyester felt is made of recycled PET plastics, mostly water bottles or other single-use products. The recycled material is compressed and melted down until left with plastic flakes. The plastic bits are then remelted and extruded as fiber. This fiber is then used to produce rolls or sheets of PET textile material, similar in any felting process. It can contain anywhere from 0% to 100% recycled content. Not only is it sustainable, but it is fast becoming the premium choice for sound dampening performance in lieu of other traditional materials, like fiberglass.
Polyester felt’s lightweight durable nature (combined with an additional lower melting point ) create the ideal properties for acoustic felt panel design. Its capability to be easily cut, variety of color options, and limitless forms are making polyester acoustic panels part of the visual landscape in modern interior design.
Benefits of Using Polyester Felt in Acoustic Insulation
When we design for sound, we are designing for experience. Before, implementing sound insulation into already existing spaces meant the only solution was to hang unattractive hanging baffles and deal with the eyesore.
Now, polyester felt delivers an appealing design in junction with high-functioning performance rates of acoustic insulation.
There is a symphony of reasons the design industry is choosing polyester felt over any other material; acoustically, environmentally, and aesthetically.
Excellent Acoustic Performance
While it is possible, it is challenging to include acoustic design into a space before it has been occupied. In most cases, sound is the last piece an architect will fit into the puzzle. Knowing how a room will be used and where the potential challenges will be for sound issues are essential pieces of the puzzle to negotiate when implementing acoustic solutions. The building layout may not be flexible, but the acoustic solutions can be.
Polyester acoustic felt soaks up ambient noise in a variety of forms. Do you need to mitigate noise in your office conference room? Consider hanging acoustic clouds strategically over spots where noise reflection is at its highest. Are your gym guests experiencing an overload of noise in a large open floor plan? Ceiling baffles would work best here, especially when dealing with higher ceilings.
Using polyester acoustic felt to your best advantage involves finding your key sources of noise and adopting different paneling styles to adapt to the parameters that will help aurally orient your space.
Appealing Function in Design
If, as Kimmerman claims, sound is as vital as wood is for building framing, how far can we take acoustic solutions? Structural possibilities with PET are far-reaching. Its flexible form can be bent, molded, and shaped to any design for an assortment of interior applications, including furniture and lighting fixtures. Designers can exercise creative freedom with a host of different color options and texture choices (dependent on manufacturing methods).
Felt itself is a nuanced fabric that works to your elemental design. You can play it safe and subtle, blending your acoustic felt panels into the background or creating statement pieces that accentuate your already developed design theme. Acoustic insulation can be as simple as under-carpeting or as intricate as 3D ceiling baffles.
Ultimately, polyester felt complements a space without compromising it.
The Sustainable Choice
It is estimated that Americans alone throw away upwards of 35 billion plastic bottles a year. And subsequently, roughly 8 million tons of plastic end up in our oceans. But a major culprit of waste is the textile industry adding billions of pounds of waste to our landfills and depleting energy and water resources.
Reworking the end-use for so many single-use plastic products (and the proposed 95% of all textiles that do have the potential to be recycled), PET is the friendliest raw material in textile applications (among other industries) as well as the healthiest.
Polyester needle punch felt is manufactured without the demand for any chemical additives like glue or resin to bond the fibers. Furthermore, polyester felt does not give off VOCs or odors. This makes it safe for indoor use (able to meet building standards and certifications) while requiring fewer energy resources in the manufacturing process.
The amount of recycled content in PET material can vary from 0% to 100%, depending on the providing manufacturer’s specs and the customer’s desire for a “greener” source. It is not only recyclable at the end of its life but possibly reusable dependent on its modularity.
Designing for the Ears
The acoustic properties of a space have a significant impact on its residents. Managing unwanted noise by integrating acoustic solutions promotes your community’s overall wellness and health, whether it be at home or in your commercial office building.
In the acoustic design process, custom is the standard. Finding the best product for your project starts with making the quality choice of polyester felt. At BIT, we manufacture 100% polyester acoustic panels under our Poly-Sonic line. Each panel has a recycled content of at least 60% PET plastic and is made entirely in the US in our facilities.
Poly-Sonic acoustic felt provides fantastic sound quality that is available in any weight, thickness, or color necessary to meet your specialized products’ demands. We also provide rolled goods that can be molded into any form of acoustic panel solutions or used as a wrapping fabric for other soft-touch surfaces, so the design process is entirely yours.
Acoustics should be a part of your building design, whether you choose to stay traditional or seek out artful installations. Contact us today to learn more about our Poly-Sonic line and how you can begin designing your space for both eyes and ears.
The modern office is not governed by a geometric design. Its architectural simplification breaks down the walls of cubicles to invite an open and airy work environment. This stimulates office culture and promotes personal interaction. The landscape may be pleasing but this minimalist approach to the office space comes with its issues.
It was believed that a breakdown of cubicles would lead to genuine social interaction and collaboration. However, a lack of privacy has shown the opposite with avoided face time and more digital communication. But it is not just the lack of privacy that is plummeting employee productivity. An unwanted side effect of fewer walls, higher ceilings, and minimal furnishings is a whole lot of noise.
Noise Pollution in the Office
Noise is not just an everyday nuisance we can brush off. It’s an irritation that can affect our health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), any noise above 65 decibels (dB) is considered noise pollution and anything exceeding 75 dB becomes harmful.
Unwanted noise in the workplace can come from all sources.
Noise from AC and heating units, kitchen spaces, keyboards, and fax machines are all inevitable culprits of noise. Exterior noises as well, traffic outside of the buildings and car noises, are all unaccounted for in an open space plan.
The open office lacks the fundamentals of proper space planning like involving full or partial enclosures, as mentioned before. The “all in this together” environment for employees is an easy way of meaning no matter what, you are always in direct earshot of someone’s phone conversation or your table mate clicking his pen every ten seconds.
The lack of visual privacy is also cause for problems in the workplace. Although not necessarily auditory, constant visual contact with your peers makes it even more challenging to avoid any unwanted noise from overhead conversations, meetings, etc.
Sound bounces off of hard surfaces. In open office spaces with little walls and plastic or glass furnishings, it’s easier for sound to travel. There is a much higher tendency of echo and sound reverb in this type of environment. It creates a fluctuation in noise that can make everyday activities much more challenging to focus on.
Effects of Noise Pollution in the Office
Constant exposure to noise in the open office space is not healthy for intellectual focus and productivity nor is it good for our personal health.
Excessive levels of noise can cause stress by overstimulating the nervous system and consequently raising blood pressure and increasing heart rate. This also can lead to increased irritability as employees push to work through the noise.
With the range of noises overlapping in the workplace, attentional functions begin to deteriorate. There is even evidence to support that background noise can decrease cognitive functions like learning and memory.
Noise makes multitasking impossible. It becomes dangerously easy to fall off task with constant uninterrupted distractions. It will not just stunt work productivity but affect actual work performance.
When work performance suffers so does workplace motivation. Over 65% of people consider leaving their work due to noisy situations.
While headphones may seem like a simple solution, they can make things worse. Headphones are not the direct problem but the volume at which we listen and the duration of time we use them. Simply put, when sound waves reach your ears, your eardrum vibrates and sends those vibrations to the small bones of your inner ear. This travels on to your cochlea, a fluid-filled chamber that houses thousands of tiny hairs. The louder the sound, the louder the vibration of the cochlea and its hairy helpers. One can guess that over extended periods of time, the hair cells will become less sensitive. Headphones in the office may not cause permanent damage like being at a concert or working in a factory, but there is still a risk of causing hearing problems while masking the bigger issue in the workplace.
Redesigning Office Space with Acoustical Panels
How is it possible then to address the issue of noise in the workplace without compromising the integrity of an open office design? The solution: acoustic panels.
Remember we stated before that noise travels; it reflects off surfaces and moves throughout the space creating overlaps and reflections of sounds. An acoustic panel is a sound-absorbing panel made from soft materials that reduce echo and reverberation helping to mitigate noise in a space. It limits sound travel and effectually clarifies sound, ultimately giving way to creating a more comfortable environment for an employee to work in.
Acoustic Panels- Different Solutions in Different Forms
Acoustic absorbers can come in many forms and materials.
Nonwoven felts or woven fabrics (wool, cotton, etc.)
Polyester panels
Fiberglass panels wrapped with other fabrics
Cellulose-based materials wrapped with other fabrics
Style and Function
Controlling sound in the workplace does not have to sacrifice the style of the office layout. When determining how to achieve the best acoustic performance, consider these questions.
What is the room being used for?
What is the size/scope of the room?
What materials in the space are contributing to noise pollution? (glass, wood, plastic)
Office furnishings
Acoustic panel materials are available in different varieties of colors, shapes, and textures making them functional pieces of art (or even real art printed on an acoustic panel!). It can become a part of the company brand for its practical use that adds a personal and customizable touch through design. It’s always best to consult an acoustic consultant/architect to utilize sound absorbers to the best of your advantage and marry that with a great interior designer.
Where and How Acoustic Panels Can be Utilized In the Modern-Day Office
Acoustic Panel Dividers/ Wall Mounts
Instead of reverting to the outdated life of cubicles, acoustic panels can be strategically placed to create quiet areas. Acoustic panels can also cover a larger surface area, like a wall, to get the biggest amount of area covered without encroaching in on the office space.
Acoustic Tiles
To the same effect, acoustic tiles can be used to cover an entire wall or portion of a wall in any fashion you see fit. Acoustic tiles are great for smaller spaces where the need to control noise is not as demanding as using an entire wall mount. They can be arranged in different patterns and styles, even creating subtle 3D effects on the walls. Decorative acoustic tiles can be subtle or enhance the design of your space by adding color and shape.
Acoustic Baffles
Hanging acoustic baffles are great for treating larger spaces with higher ceilings. Baffles are typically installed in two or more directions and at varying depths to best capture sound in a space. They are also multifunctional and can be outfitted with lighting solutions.
Acoustic Clouds
Acoustic clouds are suspended horizontally and come in a variety of sizes, styles, and shapes. These are best used to strategically place over areas to capture sound where it’s most needed.
Desk Dividers
Acoustic workspace dividers provide privacy for a quiet personal workspace still engaged in an open work environment. They can be mounted to desks or tables giving you infinite opportunities to customize the area as needed. And at a time like this, they are a perfect way of safely maintaining social distancing standards among employees in the office. Many desk dividers on the market are made of acrylic plastic (a clear or frosted material) that divides but only increases sound reflections. By using a felt polyester panel, you gain all the advantages of a physical divider with the extra benefit of acting as a sound absorber.
Office Privacy “Phone” Booth
A privacy “phone” booth can be assembled in any given area to give employees a designated space for focused work without any distraction from the outside. The acoustic properties reduce outside noise simultaneously keeping any conversation inside the phone booth for ultimate discretion. It’s a great opportunity for any employee to get away from the office without having to physically leave the office.
The Ultimate Benefits of Acoustic Panels
Noise is a global occupational hazard that does not have to go untreated. Acoustic panels tick off all the boxes for reducing noise in an open office without cluttering the space. The benefits of acoustic panels
It creates a comfortable office space that employees will want to work in therefore upping employee performance and motivation.
Provide privacy for personal conversation and work without compromising the open office plan.
Reducing echo will take away sound interference that will better foster interpersonal communication and work without being distracted by other day-to-day office activities.
Avoid personal health-related issues like increased stress.
Take the opportunity to not only better the work-place environment but enhance the aesthetics of the space with decorative panels or baffles.
At Bouckaert Industrial Textiles, we are the leading supplier of nonwoven acoustical insulation materials including Poly-Sonic (our own brand of 100% polyester acoustic panels). We help acoustical consultants, interior designers, office managers, furniture companies and many others solve their acoustical issues.
Wool is a unique all-natural fiber with qualities that outshine many of its synthetic alternatives. 60% of all wool is used in the apparel industry, but wool felt is widely used in industrial applications. It is especially used in thermal insulation, acoustical insulation, gasket materials, and even saddle pads.
A Brief History of Wool
Humans first began domesticating sheep in Mesopotamia between 11000 and 8000 BC. Sheep were first bred for their meat, skin, and milk to solve the basic human needs of shelter and food. It was not until around 4000 BC that sheep began being bred for their wool.
As the wool trade became profitable, the migration of sheep trickled from Asia to North Africa and Europe. Sheep arrived in America with Christopher Columbus and then by the British Colonies to Virginia in early 1600.
Today, wool is used in a variety of ways from clothing to carpets to industrial applications.
BIT is the largest manufacturer of industrial felt products in North America. We use the technical felting process of needling to produce our wool felt.
Needle-punching takes loose fibers and joins them together using a needle loom full of barbed needles. The needles move up and down through the fibers to mechanically entangle them.
Wool’s durability and long-lasting properties surpass those of its synthetic alternatives. Here is why:
Flame and melt resistant. Wool requires more oxygen than is present in the air to ignite.
Retains its shape due to its natural “crimp” texture that allows for elasticity, durability, and shape memory.
Water repellent: wool can absorb large quantities of water without feeling wet.
Excellent insulator against cold, heat, sound, and vibration.
Resistant to wear and tear.
Anti-Microbial; wool will not support mold growth.
Indoor environment regulation: Wool will almost act like a natural HVAC filter, purifying indoor air by absorbing noxious gases and regulating free moisture in the air.
100% natural, renewable and sustainable. It naturally decomposes in soil releasing nutrients back into the air.
Wool felt is manufactured in a variety of thicknesses, densities, and compositions. The most common wool felts are defined by SAE specifications. The SAE, which began as the Society of Automotive Engineers, sets a standard of requirements applied to felts that require higher durability and resistance to abrasion and wear.
Here are 7 markets where nonwoven wool felt is used.
Wool Felt and Its Industrial Uses
Green Roof and Agricultural Felt
Wool’s water-resistant properties (wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in water) allow for permittivity and free water flow. This makes industrial nonwoven wool felts a perfect match for the green roof industry.
A green roof is any roof or wall that is partially or wholly covered with vegetation and a growing medium (a soil replacement such as nonwoven wool felt), planted over a waterproof membrane. In certain environments, using soil as the main growing medium is difficult. In this scenario, needle-punch felts act as drainage panels and facilitate the distribution and storage of water within the root zone as a “soilless” growing media.
Felt Gaskets
A gasket is a mechanical seal that prevents leakage from or into joined objects while under compression. Able to perform in all kinds of environments and found in virtually every industry from manufacturing to mining, oil and gas, to automotive, and others, gaskets help industry function.
Its fire-retardant properties help insulate against heat in these high-pressure situations. Simultaneously, wool can stand up against consistent oil exposure all while still maintaining its shape.
Boot liners and Accessories
Boot liners, whether it be for hiking shoes, rain boots, or anything in between, provide an extra layer of protection against a variety of weather conditions.
Nonwoven wool felt for boot liners will keep you warm without overheating in cold environments and keep out moisture in wet environments, making them a comfortable option for any situation. Unlike fleece or synthetic fiber-based liners, wool is antimicrobial making it odor-resistant even with long wears. It will naturally conform to the shape of the foot over time.
The same principles apply to fashion bags and totes. Using a nonwoven felt benefits the design of the piece while keeping it safe against the elements.
Equestrian Textiles
Used as a buffer between the saddle and the horse, a saddle pad, or blanket, is a must-have for any horse and rider. It offers an extra layer of shock absorption, increases the horse’s comfort, and improves saddle balance for the rider.
Nonwoven wool felt’s natural wicking properties keep the saddle pad cleaner and the horse cooler. Its multifunctional purpose of creating comfort for the horse and cleanliness of the saddle makes it essential for the rider.
Carpeting and Interior Needs
While a pricier option for under carpet padding, wool felt has many advantages over traditional foam or even synthetic needle punch felt pad.
The thermal insulation properties of wool make them a great energy-saving option for any building while also creating comfort for the buildings’ occupants. Also and perhaps the primary advantage is in wool’s ability to help maintain a healthier indoor environment by absorbing odors and other noxious gasses (VOCs). Even in unventilated circumstance, it helps aid in indoor humidity control and temperature regulation.
To sum it up, nonwoven wool felt is key to the comfort, design, and overall safety of indoor environments.
Felt Dryer Seals
Dryer seals are vital to the proper functioning of a clothes dryer by preventing clothing from falling between the drum and the dryer cabinet. It maintains a certain level of heat inside the drum which reduces friction between the metal parts that come in direct contact with each other.
Wool is resilient, durable, and holds higher natural fire-retardant properties than those of synthetic fibers. As a result, it takes higher temperatures for wool to ignite making it an obvious choice for dryer seals.
Interior Design: Decorative Design Felt and Acoustic Paneling
The best option for improving sound quality within a space is acoustic treatments. Acoustic treatment mitigate sound within a space by reducing reverb and echo as opposed to soundproofing which keeps unwanted noise from going in or out. Acoustic panels range from wall and floor coverings, hanging panels, baffles, desk dividers, and tiling while other acoustic treatments include soft surfaces and wraps.
Ten years ago, materials used to absorb sound were limited to foams, fiberglass, and other soft fabrics. Now with the use of nonwoven wool felt, you can achieve a balance of design and acoustic value from texture, saturated color (due to its ability to dye well), and take advantage of its natural acoustical dampening properties when used in acoustic paneling. They are also more cost-effective and lighter weight (making for easier do it yourself installation).
From virgin wool straight from the sheep to recycled fibers, we utilize the advantages of wool by custom manufacturing wool felt and wool blend felts of various grades, densities, and blend contents to match your specific needs. As the leader in the manufacturing of nonwoven technical felts in North America, we know there is not a one size fits all answer. We work with you from conception to completion.
Have questions or want to learn more about us? Contact us today.
One of the hottest trends in office furniture and interior design is the rise of polyester (PET) acoustic panels. The use of these panels is growing significantly in markets such as construction, retrofits of existing offices, and other commercial and public spaces.
Over the past 3 years, polyester acoustic panels have seen a massive upsurge in demand. This is due, primarily, to their flexibility in color, form, and ease of use when compared to traditional fiberglass acoustic panels. Fiberglass panels can cause irritation and air contamination due to the chemicals they sometimes contain in their binders.
The industry has quickly adopted these panels whether being used as desk dividers, light fixtures, hanging sound baffles, wall-mounted art, or any number of other uses. But what exactly are polyester acoustic panels? How are they made? What should you look for in a quality product or a vendor? We answer all of these questions and more.
How are polyester acoustic panels made?
To understand the challenges that arise on the quality front, you first have to understand how polyester acoustic panels are made.
1. Define the desired outcome
The process to create a finished acoustical panel starts with determining what characteristics we want the finished panel to have. We can affect acoustical curves (NRC), stiffness, surface texture, or color by changing the fiber material or size, product density or thickness, or manufacturing processing of our finished panels. Each variable lets us dial in the ideal finished characteristics. Our standard Poly-Sonic panels are comprised of recycled polyester fiber and special lower melting point polyester fiber.
2. Manufacture the needle punch felt
Next, we start the manufacturing process. Every polyester acoustic panel starts out life as a nonwoven, needle punch felt. This felt is similar to the felt kids make craft projects out of, but much thicker and denser!
We begin by taking raw fiber and turning it into a “web”. We then build density and surface characteristics by adding batts and needling the material together. The repeated needling that the felt receives is one of the keys to creating a stiff panel while maintaining a super smooth-surfaced panel. From this process, we create a “master roll” of felt. For a more detailed description of how needle punch felt is made, check out this link.
3. Heat-setting
The felt moves to the heat-setting machinery following the creation of the master roll. This could be a mold for 3d shaped panels or some form of flat pressing system. This process changes the material from a roll of flexible felt to a stiff polyester acoustic panel.
When heat hits the polyester fibers, they melt and flow like a liquid thermo-plastic. Fibers like these are specially designed to have a low melt point. As this material cools, it turns back into plastic but is now spread throughout the felt, attached to all the fiber around it, and (with the assistance of the needling) creates the stiffness of the finished acoustic panel.
The heat-setting process is one of the most difficult to perfect. This is because the material will shrink three-dimensionally while being heated. And any imperfections in needling will create very obvious surface defects.
4. Cutting
The final manufacturing step is to cut the panels to their final dimensions or shape. Most architects and interior designers need tolerances of +/- 1/8th of an inch. Some elaborate designs require tighter than +/-1/16th of an inch. This would normally favor a die-cutting process but in many cases, the variety of shapes and rectangular dimensions needed would make this cost-prohibitive. Only with extremely precise cutting tools such as CNC machinery using oscillating blades, lasers, or waterjet cutting can near-perfect acoustical panels be cut every time.
What quality attributes should you look for when assessing polyester acoustic panels?
There are several factors to consider when determining whether a polyester acoustic panel is of top quality.
Uniformity
Is the first panel just like all the others and, also as important, is each individual polyester acoustic panel consistent within itself?
One of the key giveaways of an inconsistent process is that one panel does not look like the next. When dealing with large-scale projects, even minor consistency problems can stand out when looking from panel to panel or from one section of a panel to another. Unfortunately, due to the nature of the panel manufacturing process, it is impossible for panels to be exactly identical, but the closer they are, the better.
Blending
The distribution of colors in a panel is one of the first things to stand out. Many panels have a “heathered” look to them. This comes from blending two or more colors of fiber together. Do you see clumps color? Or is everything evenly spread out?
Thickness
Another one of the most noticeable attributes comes when comparing the thickness of different panels. When placing panels next to each other on a wall or in a line of desk dividers, check to see if the panels are of different thicknesses.
The thickness of each acoustic panel is one of the major drivers of its acoustical absorption capability. Thicker is better!
Stiffness
Many applications for acoustic panels, such as desk dividers, require very stiff panels. Make sure to check if the panels stiff enough for your use. Is each panel consistently stiff? This could be from one corner to another or from one surface side to another.
Many manufacturers struggle with getting enough heat all the way through the panels to fully activate the low-melt fiber. This is especially true on thicker panels. Often, an inferior panel will have a softer center and two harder surface faces when you look at the panel from the side. When this happens, the panels tend to not hold mounting bolts or hardware as well and also tend to collapse and bend easily when held from only one side. This usually destroys the panel by creating unwanted wrinkles on the surface.
Acoustic Certifications (ASTM C423)
Polyester acoustic panels have many uses, but as the name implies, “acoustic” tends to be the key attribute for many applications. All panels should have an NRC value, and most “standard” specifications will.
Where this gets tricky is when comparing panels from different vendors that look the same but have vastly different ASTM C423 results. Logic says that the higher number is better, right? Well, not quite…
There are different variations of the ASTM C423 test. These range from “A” mount where the acoustic panel is placed directly against a cement floor (and will have a lower NRC number) to “E Mount” where the panel is suspended several inches in the air (and the NRC number will be higher). It isn’t wrong for a vendor to use “E” mount test data, but make sure you compare apples to apples when comparing!
As a secondary note for ASTM C423 testing that produces an NRC value, keep in mind that NRC is an average of performance at different frequencies. If you have specific acoustical profiles or sound frequencies that you need to target, then make sure you look at the charts to compare performance at your specific frequency.
The acoustical curve of BIT’s Poly-Sonic 45 (9mm thick) acoustical panel using ASTM 423 A-mount. Note the different absorption coefficients at different frequencies. NRC: 0.30
Flame and Smoke Certifications (ASTM E84)
The ASTM E84 certification uses a combination of a flame spread and smoke generation test. It is one of the most important certifications for applications that are considered “building materials”. Depending on your application, you may not require this certification, but most suppliers will have their acoustic panels tested to this specification.
There are several results possible all resulting from the flame spread portion of the test. The generally accepted standard is “Class A” and, if your application requires this test then be sure to look for this.
One word of caution here, not all ASTM E84 tests or testing labs are equal. Many of our customers are wary of using unknown foreign laboratory results for good reason. We have heard some horror stories about vendor-provided laboratory results looking good but when independently tested their panels fail miserably.
Due to the moral values and legal penalties involved in failing this test, most of our customers will conduct their own testing using a US certified lab. We recommend that you do the same if you do not personally know the lab that conducted the testing.
What to look for in a vendor
Now that we have reviewed the critical parts of a quality panel, it is easier to identify what to look for (and what we strive to be!) in a vendor as well. For many customers, being able to provide a consistent, high-quality panel is paramount and all-encompassing. Other normal vendor characteristics to inquire about are minimum order quantities, lead times, and, of course, price. However, there are a few other factors to consider that not every PET acoustic panel vendor can provide.
First is the ability to customize. The market is becoming flooded with 9mm thick panels that look, feel, and perform pretty similarly. But your company might require a distinct acoustical performance curve, custom color options, or different thicknesses. Finding a supplier who can work with you to provide the exact product you need isn’t always needed, but be sure to review your requirements and make sure the company you are working with can handle them.
Another often overlooked aspect of vendor capability is someone you can build a relationship with. Maybe you are in a bind and need an order shipped early. Or you are stuck with a whole truckload of panels after a customer backed out of a deal. Is your vendor willing to take them back no questions asked? Finding a company that you can work with is often worth paying a bit more when they save you headaches down the road!
Bouckaert Industrial Textiles tries to meet all of our customer’s needs from minimum order quantities, to lead time, to price, to customization and relationship. Our Poly-Sonic polyester acoustic panels are designed and manufactured entirely in the USA.
Have questions or want to learn more about us? Contact us today!
