Eckoustic Functional Panels (EFP)

Eckoustic Functional Panels are high performance, sound-absorbing, fire resistant panels which can be spot located on walls or ceilings to achieve effective noise control.

Since EFPs are independent units that can be put into place without disturbing existing utilities. This functional approach to acoustic control, therefore is considerably less expensive than continuous ceiling or wall treatment.

EFPs also help solve other noise control problems. They can be added to barriers to increase noise reduction capability. Special aluminum EFP's, for example, have been attached to concrete barrier walls around transformers and in sewage treatment plants thereby enhancing the barriers' acoustic performance as well as preventing a potential community noise problem. These panels can be manufactured with solid backs, and they will then act as barriers themselves, which is an extremely practical solution in industrial situations where full noise enclosures are not feasible.

Whichever EFPs are used, a better acoustic environment is obtained: with a resulting reduction in speech interference, fatigue, tension, and errors.

EFPs are Ideal for correcting noise problems in:

gymnasiums, swimming pools, weight rooms, and similar facilities
auditoriums and theaters
libraries
machine shops
computer rooms
restaurants and other food service operations
offices
subway stations and other rapid transit facilities
churches and religious buildings
open plan school rooms and multi-purpose rooms
factories, assembly, and production areas

To meet OSHA Regulations Industrial noise problems sometimes require absorptive treatment as one of the elements of a total noise control program. EFPs provide a convenient, cost-effective method of adding needed sound absorption.

Advanced Acoustic Construction

Our patented EFP design offers outstanding acoustical performance. "V" ridging improves sound absorption by holding the polyethylene encased acoustical fill away from the perforated metal face. In addition, the ridging increases the stiffness of the panel and aids in protecting the face from damage.

Durable

The panels maintain their excellent acoustic performance and structural integrity for years.

Attractive

The pleasing architectural design harmonizes with the interiors of auditoriums, classrooms, swimming pools, factory areas, and most other places where people gather to work or relax. Finishes can be selected to blend or contrast with the interior.

Easy Practical Installation

Since the functional arrangement of the EFPs requires that less than 25-30% of the reflective surface be covered, the panels can be installed without relocating existing sprinklers, lights, or ventilation outlets.

Economical

EFPs offer superb sound absorption, and more sabines of sound absorption per square foot means fewer panels are required to achieve the desired results. And, less panels in turn means greater cost savings.

Low Maintenance

Panels require little or no maintenance. To clean they may be wiped down with common household surface cleaners or with warm water and liquid dishwasher detergent.

Performance

Reduction of reverberant noise in rooms is a function of the increase in the amount of sound absorption, as would be obtained through addition of EFPs. The noise reduction is"

NR = 10 log10 A 2 /A 1

Where NR = noise reduction (dB), A 1 = absorption before and A2 = absorption after treatment (sabins).

Reverberation time is calculated by the amount of time in seconds it takes a noise level to decay 60 dB. Desired reverberation time is selected from the graph and the additional absorption required is determined from the following formula:

Additional absorption = 0.05V/R T - A1

V = volume
Rt = desired reverberation time
At = absorption before treatment (sabins)

The number of panels required is determined by dividing the amount of additional absorption required by the sabins per panel at 500 Hz.

The graph to the right shows ranges of acceptable reverberation times at 500Hz. The lower portion of the band is most suitable for rooms intended primarily for speech, while the upper portion is better for music rooms. For general purpose rooms, a reverberation time in the middle portion of the band is recommended. For some more background information about reverberation, go to the reverberation page.