Lab & Site Testing case study
Laboratory Sound Insulation Testing of a Glazed Screen for Quietstar
Background
Quietstar was commissioned to design and construct a high-performance glazed screen for a prestigious Stratford Waterfront project. The project required that the glazed screen they had developed met stringent sound insulation criteria to ensure optimal acoustic performance within its intended environment. Given the critical nature of the installation, Quietstar sought the expertise of SRL’s laboratory team and it’s UKAS accredited testing facility to conduct comprehensive sound insulation testing.
Challenge
One of the key challenges of the project was achieving the required sound reduction index performance while maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic requirements of the glazed screen. To facilitate accurate testing, SRL constructed a robust acoustically isolated test wall within their highly controlled test environment. The test wall itself had to demonstrate an exceptional level of sound insulation to ensure that the measured performance of the glazed screen was both reliable and precise.
To meet these stringent requirements, SRL designed and built a custom test wall with an impressive sound reduction index of 83dB Rw. This high-performance test environment provided the necessary conditions for accurate measurements, ensuring confidence in the results and allowing Quietstar to validate the effectiveness of their design before final installation.
Testing Process and Outcome
SRL conducted an extensive series of laboratory tests in accordance with industry standards to assess the acoustic performance of the glazed screen. Using precision instrumentation and the bespoke, controlled testing conditions, SRL measured the screen’s ability to attenuate sound transmission and confirm compliance with the project’s specifications.
During the testing phase enhancements were made to the speaker system used during the testing process to maximise the results. Quietstar also invited key stakeholders and project representatives to witness the testing, providing transparency and confidence in the performance validation process.
The testing proceeded successfully, with the glazed screen meeting the required sound insulation performance targets. Both Quietstar and the attending witnesses were highly satisfied with the outcome, affirming the reliability of the test results and the suitability of the glazed screen for its intended application.
SRL then prepared a practical, technical report detailing the methodology, results, and any additional observations. This report was delivered to the stakeholders within a few days, providing them with clear documentation of the screen’s acoustic performance.
The collaboration between Quietstar, their stakeholders and SRL not only demonstrated compliance with the project’s acoustic requirements but also reinforced the value of rigorous laboratory testing in delivering high-quality acoustic solutions for complex architectural projects.
“From the first initial phone call all the way through to final testing, SRL provided a quality service with a very hands-on and flexible approach. They were able to accommodate our tight schedule for turnaround of the testing programme required, along with a similar turnaround on the final report to help issue to the client and stakeholders and progress the project on site meeting key deadlines. The team on site when we arrived provided as much assistance as needed to help the entire process run as smoothly as possible.”
Luke Willis, Director – Quietstar
