Challenge

Following the refurbishment and upgrade of Mencap's sports hall in Sheffield a solution was required to reduce reverberation problems. These were caused by the hall having high ceilings open to the composite steel roof panels, and bare hard walls and floors, all of which meant sounds were being amplified to an uncomfortable level.

As well as an acoustic solution, the treatment also needed to be impact resistant at all levels due to ball games being played, and the resultant velocity and impact in these areas.

Also, due to the disabilities of the people using the facility, the treatment required to be aesthetically pleasing to the eye and visually stimulating.

Solution

Mick Wragg, Acoustic Director of Galaxy Insulations, had worked with TVS for a number of years with extremely satisfying results and service. After initial investigation into suitable options to put forward he contacted Steve Whitbread of TVS for his thoughts and possible solution options.

After investigation and calculations being carried out on the sports hall by TVS, a solution was put forward to the client which was suitable for all aspects of the requirements.

TVS ABSorb Sport panels were supplied cut-to-size for fixing with velcro, and made-to-order TVS ABSorb Cubes were suspended from the roof perlings. The panel and cube system has an acoustic absorber core and textile covering, which can be in a variety of different colours making it very aesthetically pleasing. It is also lightweight allowing for simple installation and de-mounting, but also extremely impact resistant (tested to DIN 18032-3: 1997).

After the solution was accepted and the order placed, the system was designed and installed with very satisfactory results.

Outcome

Reverberation time was dramatically reduced. The system brightened up the environment for the disabled users, stimulating them and creating a pleasant environment.

On a long term basis, the panels can be removed very easily when required for cleaning purposes so will last for many years to come.