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CMS Danskin Acoustics

CMS Danskin Acoustics

Experts in Soundproofing Materials and Acoustic Insulation

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Acoustic Rafts Case Study: Jodrell Bank

Acoustic Rafts Case Study: Jodrell Bank

CMS Danskin Acoustics

Project: Jodrell BankMain Contractor: Sir Robert McAlpine LtdSubcontractor/installer: Sound Interiors LtdArchitect: HassellProduct: SuperPhonOverall Project Value: £16 millionQuantity: 56 triangular and 26 circular acoustic raftsHassel Architects and Robert McAlpine contractors collaborate on The First Light Pavillion, nestled in the Cheshire countryside at Jodrell Bank. The educational centre with a focus on not only the future of our planet, but of our universe.Jodrell Bank and the First Light PavilionJodrell Bank is the northern heart of British space research thanks to the Lovell telescope, which at 3200 tonnes is one of the world’s largest radio telescopes. The site hosts the yearly science and music festival ‘BlueDot,’ named after one astronomer’s description of planet earth from space as a ‘pale blue dot.’ As the name suggests, the event aims to change the way we think about our planet, with huge mechanical sculptures made of recycled items created each year. It attracts scientists and speakers from around the world, including Brian Cox and Richard Dawkins, award-winning author of ‘The Selfish Gene.’Drawing on the history of Jodrell bank, Manchester University are now embarking on a long term project to introduce a younger generation to science. The team believe ‘A passion for science, sparked in childhood, can be the catalyst that leads to bold new discoveries and a better understanding of the world around us.’ In order to spark this passion, The First Light Pavilion will use immersive installations to tell the history of Jodrell bank and it’s place in science history. The space will accommodate speakers, school trips and conferences, and will bring visitors from all over the UK.Robert McAlpineLead contractor on this project, Robert McAlpine have an equally future facing outlook. They are best known for the internationally recognised Eden Project, an indoor tropical paradise made of a series of interlocking biomes designed to emulate rainforest conditions. Unseen on this scale anywhere else in the world, Robert McAlpine constructed the world largest scaffolding, using 230 miles of poles. As well as looking the part, the offices are also built from entirely recycled materials, and the centre aims to promote caring for our environment. In a similar vein to The First Light Pavilion, the site was specially built to accommodate learning, as well as large scale festivals and events.Hassell ArchitectsHassell Architect’s ethos is focused on science education, winning them two AIA awards for their work with James Cook’s University’s science department. They were highly praised for “making science visible, accessible and attractive,” to both students and the general public. The firm is also known for recognising the changing needs of educational spaces in the digital age. Many of their projects focus on multi-use spaces that can be used for socialising, group learning and conferences. They are based both the UK and Australia, and have led projects everywhere from Brighton to Brisbane, bringing an international flair to the idyllic Jodrell Bank site.CMS Danskin AcousticsCMS Danskin Acoustics describe themselves as experts in soundproofing solutions, and have a huge amount of well known projects to back this up. Many of their most inventive projects have been in partnership with SuperPhon, and showcase CMS Danskin Acoustics ability to create distraction-proof educational environments. Most recently they were involved in a reinvention of Teesside University Library. Tasked with breathing new life into the study space, CMS Danskin Accoustics suspended foam plates from the ceiling to emulate a rainforest retreat. The foam plates were specially designed with study in mind and dispersed sound, keeping interference at a minimum for the students below.The ProblemReverberation is consistently a problem in large educational spaces, affecting sound quality and causing distractions. With 20,000 schoolchildren expected through it’s doors each year, and countless speeches and workshops happening year round, reducing reverberation is of high priority for The First Light Pavilion. A useful measure for the effectiveness of any sound absorption solution is BB93: acoustic design of schools – performance standards. This details the level of sound absorption acceptable for a classroom environment. BB93 recommends reverberation time to be as little as 0.4 seconds, which should be used as the benchmark for this project.The SolutionIn a similar technique used at Teesside University, SuperPhon’s sound absorption rafts will be suspended from the ceiling of the pavilion. They will integrate into the design of the pavilion, as they can be cut to bespoke sizes, mirroring the night sky above. The panels are sound absorbent, made of a composite construction and covered in acoustically transparent woven textile fabric..The ResultReverberation should decrease to 60 decibels in less than half a second, as recommended by the BB93, making The First Light Pavilion the calming educational space it was designed to be. The building will be able to comfortably accommodate thousands of visitors each year with minimal noise disturbances, allowing guests to focus on the majesty of space and the world around us.
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Acoustic Scheme for Historic Standon Hall

Acoustic Scheme for Historic Standon Hall

CMS Danskin Acoustics

ACOUSTIC insulation experts CMS Danskin Acoustics has worked with historic Standon Hall to specify and supply a range of acoustic products to reduce the impact of airborne and impact sound transmission in the Grade II listed Staffordshire venue.During the course of redeveloping the early 20th century country house into a high-quality wedding and business venue, Standon Hall made acoustics a key element for investment. CMS Danskin Acoustic’s in-house technical team conducted a site assessment in order to specify an insulation strategy to address structure borne noise and absorb sound.The objective was to prevent noise transfer between ground floor functions rooms and nine bedrooms and suites above. Andrey Magiy, Standon Hall’s MD, said, ‘During this two-year project to transform the hall into an outstanding venue we had an opportunity to address acoustics as floors were lifted to install new services. It was as important to prevent sounds from above being heard in meetings and conferences below, as it was to prevent noise from ground floor functions filtering up into the bedrooms.’The resulting acoustics strategy from CMS Danskin Acoustics involved the installation of 600sq m of Smartspan floor panels, Karma TNF70 high density stone-fibre batt and REGUPOL acoustic isolation strip. Challenges included the need to work from above to avoid disturbing fine, moulded lath and plaster ceilings below and the necessity to specify high performance acoustic materials of a thickness that wouldn’t increase bedroom and bathroom floor levels.Andy Hayes, CMS Danskin specification manager and IAO Affiliate, said, ‘Smartspan panels span across bearing structures such as, in this case, joists. They provide high acoustic performance, are easy to install, come in different thicknesses, such as the 32mm and 18mm used at Standon Hall, and have a reaction to fire classification (EN 13501-1) A1.‘Smartspan was also valuable for use in bathroom floors as it has excellent thermal conductivity making it ideal over UFH systems, has surface water absorption of only (EN20535) <300g/sq m is suitable for stone and ceramic finishes and, with a tongue-and-groove profile, it’s straightforward to install.’REGUPOL Acoustic Isolation Strip was also incorporated to reduce impact noise from first floor footfall. The strips are designed to sit beneath all types of partition walls and are described by the company as a simple and effective way to reduce structure borne noise. ‘Quick and easy to install, they provide long term performance without collapse or ‘bottoming’ out under high point loads, are resistant to ageing and deformation, are manufactured using recycled materials and are 100% recyclable.’~Karma TNF70 was also specified in places. Says the company: ‘It’s typically used in refurbishment projects for improving existing structures where access is only available from above and where additional acoustic and fire performance is required, such as in flats, offices, shops, and hotels. It’s lightweight, quick to install and is a dry system that won’t damage sensitive lath and plaster ceilings or fine plaster mouldings.’‘The products have been absolutely brilliant and we have great acoustics results for the primary rooms,’ said Standon Hall’s Andrey Magiy. Standon Hall opened for private hire for weddings and corporate events during 2021 and the bedrooms and suites were completed and launched in spring 2022.
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Bannatyne Gym, Maida Vale

Bannatyne Gym, Maida Vale

CMS Danskin Acoustics

The ChallengeLocated in a mixed-use development with apartments directly above the gym facilities, Bannatyne Health Club Maida Vale, was faced with a Noise Abatement Order following a series of complaints from residents occupying the dwellings above. In a bid to remediate the situation, CMS Danskin Acoustics was brought in to trouble shoot the cause of the nuisance noise.The SolutionAn initial site visit by the CMS Danskin Acoustics technical team identified the ‘free weight’ area as the source of the impact noise. Inspection of the floor treatment confirmed that a generic sports flooring tile product had been installed, yet this would not offer sufficient levels of absorption for the impact of free weights hitting the ground.Recognising that a bespoke specification would be required to achieve the necessary sound reduction, CMS Danskin Acoustics commissioned Pace Consult to conduct subjective testing on-site using a range of acoustic system build-ups.To resolve the Noise Abatement Order as swiftly as possible and to protect against any further complaints, the highest performing floor-build up was installed as follows:Regufoam 220Regufoam 190FX75 Tile10mm High Impact MatThe combination of these materials delivered a highly absorptive, durable and resilient construction which reduced the noise generated in the free weights area to a level deemed acceptable by the Council – leading the Noise Abatement Order to be withdrawn.Martin Jones, Managing Director, Pace Consult, comments: “Remediation in gym environments is more common than many realise. In the absence of any legislative standards, the specification of acoustic treatments is left very open. That’s why subjective testing is crucial in any mixed-use development, it’s the only way to be confident the products specified will deliver the exact acoustic performance required.”
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BB93 Solution for Teeside University

BB93 Solution for Teeside University

CMS Danskin Acoustics

Sound-absorbing ‘trees’ installed at Teesside University LibraryTeesside University’s Middlesbrough campus has benefited from over £270 million of investment in recent years, including a £6 million refurbishment programme for the university library. The library’s first floor was the second phase of the refurbishment, opened on 7 October 2016, and includes a unique and visually striking installation of CMS Danskin’s SuperPhon panels, designed to represent two trees.The ChallengeThe original building was constructed in 1997 and incorporated some sound absorbent materials; the refurbishment had to inject new life into the interior whilst also enhancing the library’s acoustic performance. The open-plan layout, which can have up to 450 students using it at any one time, presented a particular challenge for controlling the build-up and spread of sound.Class A absorbent rafts and baffles were recommended by Apex Acoustics to act as noise barriers as well as provide sound absorption, and control the spread of sound throughout the space. The space was zoned for noisier and quieter activities and acoustic consultants Apex Acoustics undertook full modelling to determine the optimum arrangement of rafts and baffles.The SolutionCPMG Architects, who were tasked with the refurbishment, worked to integrate the recommended Class A absorbent rafts into the library’s interior scheme, which used a contemporary palette of materials and a focused colour strategy. Two identical ‘trees’ were created at either side of the library’s first floor, using CMS Danskin’s SuperPhon Acoustic panels to represent the foliage.Circular panels of varying sizes and different shades of green were suspended from the ceiling and arranged around two structural concrete columns, to look like abstract trees. The panels were bespoke and CPMG Architects was able to specify the material used to cover them, and the colours. Some of the panels had to be made and supplied in two halves, and constructed on-site, due to their size. The ‘trees’ also had contemporary lights suspended from the panels, to represent hanging fruit.The ResultThe two sound-absorbing ‘trees’ represent a visually striking and unique use of CMS Danskin’s SuperPhon panels.Richard Thorpe of CPMG Architects said: “We went for the SuperPhon panels because of what we could do with them – the bespoke service gave us scope to play around with the design and come up with something quirky and interesting. We were able to create an attractive design feature which had a very practical purpose – to reduce reverberation in the refurbished library.”The project was completed at the end of September 2016 and the refurbished floor is now open to students.
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Everyman Cinema Liverpool

Everyman Cinema Liverpool

CMS Danskin Acoustics

About Everyman CinemasEveryman Cinemas aim to put luxury back into the cinema experience, with sofas, in house cocktail shakers and meals eaten screenside. Their interiors draw heavily on 1960s design with classic G-plan furniture and mad men-esque mood lighting. They have a history of taking often neglected buildings and turning them into beautiful spaces to watch films. Their flagship cinema opened in 2000 in the Hampstead Theatre, which was previously threatened with closure. Today it is a vibrant space that pays homage to the notable performers Noel Coward and Jacinto Benavente who both performed there in the 1920s. They also recently took over the UKs longest running cinema in Islington, which has been in operation since 1913.About Simons GroupEveryman’s director stated ‘First and foremost, we are about doing cinema really, really well, and about getting people to fall in love with our venues’ – and their Liverpool venue is a building to fall in love with. It sits in the iconic Metquarter, which was recently revamped by the Simons Group. Originally built as the headquarters of Liverpool’s general post office, the building is reminiscent of a French 18th century design. Simons has done much to retain the charm of this iconic building, keeping the hand-carved façade and pillars. These have been in place since 1899 and were one of the only parts of the building to survive heavy bombing during the blitz. They were the work of Liverpudlian and Scottish sculptors Edward Griffiths and Willaim Bernie Rhind whose sculptures can still be seen today at war memorials across Scotland.The Everyman Cinema covers 18,000 square feet, with a further 20,000 square feet for luxury shopping and restaurants. Simons has modernised this previously neglected space, creating streets in the sky by opening up two terraces overlooking Liverpool’s town center.About CMS DanskinCMS Danskin are experts in acoustics and vibration isolation solutions. The company is best known for working on well known buildings such as the Shard and the Natural History Museum. They also have strong links to Liverpool, as they created the flooring for ‘A Hard Days Night’ – the official Beatles themed hotel. This involved the extra challenge of insulating the sound of conference rooms from the sound of raucous tribute acts and guests.The ProblemEveryman Cinemas pride themselves on providing a luxury cinema experience for their viewers. With ticket prices increasing to around £16 a time, it’s a priority that their sound is of as high quality as their cocktails and sofas. On the whole, films are getting louder which means increased vibration from screen room to screen room. The popularity of loud superhero and action movies is bad news for those wanting to enjoy a romcom or a period drama in peace. The floor specification was designed to attenuate the airborne sound created in each cinema along with isolating vibration caused from low base frequencies.The SolutionIt was important that CMS Danskin found a technique that would stop sound and vibration within the screen rooms, to avoid transmission to other cinema rooms. To do this, CMS Danskin worked with Gillieron Scott Acoustic Design. This group are experts in theatre sound insulation who have worked on the Apollo Theatre and the Theatre Royal in London.The floor system was designed with a target of 14Hz or better (lower) for the discreet floating floor pads. This system also required a 75mm airspace below the floating floor element of the cinema. The system comprised 50mm pads with 25mm timber battens to achieve the required void height and this supported three layers of cement particle board. The thickness and mass of the cement particle board and pads were designed to isolate the airborne and vibration caused by low frequency bass sound.The ResultWorking with the Dead Load and Live Load provided to CMS Danskin Acoustics, they exceeded the 14Hz goal set by the Everyman Cinema. The specific pad and spacing of pads determined by CMS Danskin Acoustic achieved 12Hz, when
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Fade acoustic plaster used at AstraZeneca HQ, Cambridge

Fade acoustic plaster used at AstraZeneca HQ, Cambridge

CMS Danskin Acoustics

AstraZeneca Case StudyProject: AstraZeneca HQ, CambridgeProduct: Fade acoustic plasterQuantity: 4200m2Main Contractor: MaceSubcontractors: CMS DanskinArchitect: Herzog & de MeuronValue of Overall Project: £50 Million +Introduction: AstraZeneca Acoustic Plaster Case StudyAfter starting the project with Skanska as lead contractors, in 2019 AstraZeneca switched to their current partnership with Mace to complete their multi-million pound HQ. The building is designed with research facilities at the forefront, and is sound insulted using Fade Acoustic technology.About AstraZenecaSince its inception in 1998, AstraZeneca has been a trailblazer in the fields of medical and scientific research. The Swedish-British company has over 90 locations worldwide and is active across Africa, Europe, Asia and North America. Their headquarters in Cambridge will act as a hub for global innovation, and their patents improve the lives of millions each year. Most recently, their Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine was the first COVID-19 vaccine to be approved in the UK, and has since been adopted worldwide. The company is also at the forefront of cancer research, partnering with Cancer Research UK to improve survival rates.About MaceMace Construction has been developing ideas for clients across five continents for the past 30 years. Their project list is extensive: they’ve worked on everything from airports to the world’s largest observation eye, and closer to home with a renovation of TV’s Coronation Street. Like many industries, the COVID-19 crisis has hit the construction industry in unexpected ways. Instead of seeing this as a setback, Mace have innovated their work-from-home technologies, introducing drones and remote technology to future-proof their business. The company is also future focused in their view towards the environment, implementing green ideas across all projects. Recently Mace were lead contractors on 70 St Mary Axe, the curved skyscraper currently under construction in central London. As well as boasting an attractive semi-elliptical design, by using double-glazed wall cladding and vertical shading fins, the skyscraper also boasts incredibly low carbon emissions.About the projectAstraZeneca’s UK based headquarters have been in the pipeline since 2013. Originally valued at £330 million, soaring material costs and increased investment in new technologies raised the cost to £500 million by 2019. The new headquarters is an immense glass-based structure at the center of Cambridge’s Chesterford Research Park. Herzog & de Meuron’s triangular design was chosen to encourage easy movement around the building, and glass panels are used liberally throughout to “promote ‘visible science’, according to AstraZeneca. The central piazza is a nod to the sprawling courtyards of Cambridge University, providing a communal space for socialising and the sharing of ideas. The headquarters will act as a central hub for both research and business, linking commerce and science under one glass roof.About Fade acousticsFade Acoustic plaster is a flexible alternative to traditional acoustic solutions. A fibreglass substrate provides a sound insulating layer which is then sprayed with 3mm of plaster. This extra layer gives a plastered-like finish, completely disguising the panels beneath. This invisible layer makes Fade Acoustics products ideal for preserving integrity of the building’s original design. The modernist Shenzhen Sea World Culture & Arts Center, for example, was completed using Fade Acoustics plus+ to provide seamless insulation that showed off the building’s angular modernist features. The product can me made to fit any type of structure, applied to concrete or timber substrate, or can even be attached direct to grid using Fade Special Washers. Fade Acoustic products have been proven to be durable and humidity resistant, receiving an A+ rating from French regulatory bodies for creating safe indoor environments.Why Was Fade Acoustics chosen?Mace had previously used Fade Acoustics Plus+ on Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium, chosen for their hassle-free installation and wide range of colour options which allowed for flawless blending with existing plaster. After this success, Fade Acoustics were an obvious choice for AstraZeneca’s HQ. The project’s complex geometric structure required a soundproofing technique that could adapt to the building’s unique shape without hindering design. The HQ required a bespoke thickness due to the installation of sprinklers. This meant the team had to create a custom sized acoustic board by altering fibreglass substrate to 30mm, instead of their regular 25mm or 40mm. Due to travel restrictions during the COVID-19 crisis, the chosen product also needed to be installed quickly without compromising on quality. CMS Danskin were able to acquire the material quickly, meaning WRR UK, long-time contractors with Mace and the project’s approved installer, could start installation within two weeks. Fade Acoustic’s flexible and easy to install product meant the team could install 4200m² of Fade Acoustic plaster in the final two months of the project. The project is due to be unveiled later this year.
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Four Seasons Hotel - Regupol® 4515 Multi (REGUPOL sonus multi)

Four Seasons Hotel - Regupol® 4515 Multi (REGUPOL sonus multi)

CMS Danskin Acoustics

The ChallengeThe extensively refurbished Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane required an acoustic underlay solution to effectively control impact sound with the marbled tiled floors of its guest bathrooms. Due to the prestigious nature of the hotel, superior impact sound attenuation needed to be achieved to exceed Part E requirements.Furthermore, having undergone a vast refurbishment programme the Four Seasons Hotel London now accommodates eight floors of guest rooms, so as well as attenuation of impact sound between floors it was necessary for the acoustic treatment to be easy to handle and install.The SolutionThe extensively refurbished Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane required an acoustic underlay solution to effectively control impact sound with the marbled tiled floors of its guest bathrooms. Due to the prestigious nature of the hotel, superior impact sound attenuation needed to be achieved to exceed Part E requirements.Furthermore, having undergone a vast refurbishment programme the Four Seasons Hotel London now accommodates eight floors of guest rooms, so as well as attenuation of impact sound between floors it was necessary for the acoustic treatment to be easy to handle and install.The ResultAchieving high levels of impact sound attenuation with a tiled floor finish, Regupol® 4515 Multi (REGUPOL sonus multi) exceeds the minimum requirement of 62dB or less specified by Part E regulations.Russell Coleman, senior project manager, Beck Interiors, commented: “As one of the finest examples of a world class hotel we needed complete peace of mind that the acoustic flooring solution we applied in the guest bathrooms provided more than effective impact sound isolation, especially with the marble floor finish. The technical support that we received from CMS Acoustics in order to specify Regupol® 4515 Multi (REGUPOL sonus multi) was excellent, with a member of the technical team taking the time to visit the site.”
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Hard Days Night Hotel Acoustic Isolation Case Study

Hard Days Night Hotel Acoustic Isolation Case Study

CMS Danskin Acoustics

Regupol studwork isolating strips helped prevent flanking sound between suites at the new Hard Days Night hotel in Liverpool.The ChallengeWhen a suitable site was finally found for Hard Days Night, the eagerly anticipated Beatles themed hotel in Liverpool, an ambitious two-year development plan was put in place to convert the historic listed building into a prestigious four star hotel.Extensive alterations to the internal area of the building created 110 guest bedrooms, which included two exclusive Lennon and McCartney suites, bars, restaurants and function rooms as well as a wedding chapel.Designed to create a unique environment with a high quality feel, it was essential that Hard Days Night lived up to the expectations of the many visitors it would welcome. Part of this meant ensuring that bedrooms were adequately soundproofed, to ensure guests were not disturbed.As with many refurbishment projects, the floor construction was timber, which left Hornport Construction, the main contractors on the project, tasked with finding a compatible acoustic treatment that would help prevent sound transfer between bedrooms.The SolutionAlthough internal wall isolation was the specified acoustic treatment, Hornport Construction was able to make the final purchasing decision as to which products would be used. After consultation with CMS Acoustic Solutions, Regupol studwork isolating strips were identified as the most cost effective solution to deliver the required acoustic performance.Manufactured from recycled polyurethane (PUR) foam, Regupol studwork isolating strips are supplied at a standard thickness of 6mm, and widths to suit specific development requirements. Sitting beneath all types of timber partitions, the studwork strips reduce structure borne noise by absorbing sound and de-coupling the connection between floor and wall constructions.Resistant to ageing and deformation, Regupol studwork isolating strips offer long-term performance and will not collapse under high point loads.Available exclusively in the UK through CMS Acoustic Solutions, Regupol studwork isolating strips are supplied with comprehensive installation guidelines, making it simple for contractors to install independently on site. Easily laid, the Regupol material is bonded straight to the subfloor, with the partition erected directly on top.The ResultAt the Hard Days Night Hotel, Regupol studwork isolating strips were used to isolate the party walls separating the corridors and bedrooms. Designed specifically for use with timber, Regupol studwork isolating strips offered the ideal solution to isolate a party wall sitting on an existing timber floor.Gerry Abraham, site manager, Hornport Construction, concludes: “The Hard Days Night is a four star hotel, so high acoustic standards were imperative. We initially looked at timber sole plates with pre-fitted isolating strips, but this was quite an expensive route. We consulted CMS Acoustics who were able to provide a cost effective and high performing alternative with the Regupol studwork isolating strip – which was just as quick and easy to use.”
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Hove Park School Case Study

Hove Park School Case Study

CMS Danskin Acoustics

Hove Park School and Sixth Form Centre received planning permission in 2020 for a new sports hall and facilities on its Nevill Campus. The new facilities include a two-court sports hall suitable for a variety of activities including badminton, volleyball and basketball, and new changing facilities.
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Injured Jockey Fund Gym

Injured Jockey Fund Gym

CMS Danskin Acoustics

BackgroundThe Injured Jockey Fund (IJF) Oaksey House rehabilitation centre in Lambourn, Berkshire, was opened in 2009 by the IJF Patron, HRH The Princess Royal. Oaksey House provides specialist rehabilitation treatment for physical and neurological injuries, it has a fully equipped gym which includes a state-of-the-art anti-gravity treadmill. The centre has respite accommodation available for those receiving extended treatment and their carers. Educational courses on fitness and nutrition for the general well-being of young and aspiring jockeys are also on offer.Oaksey House is not only a rehabilitation centre for jockeys, but anyone with physical or neurological injuries. Although the centre was only opened in 2009, it was decided that a refit was required to make improvements to further support the people that pass through its doors. The refit included moving the gym to the first floor and building a hydro pool on the ground floor.The ChallengeRelocating the gym to the first floor was no easy task, primarily because the building structure was composed of a steel tray and concrete base. To accommodate gym activity, the floor build-up would need to be enhanced to prevent noise and vibrations travelling through the building.As a charity, the IJF had limited funds to work with, so flooring specialists, Sport & Fitness Flooring, worked with the architect and an independent consultancy to identify an effective solution within the specified budget. Moreover, the floor had to be designed to meet the needs of four distinct areas: a cardiovascular zone, a running track, main gym area and an entrance lobby.The project was unique because various performance requirements had to be met across the four areas but the floor level needed to be consistent throughout to make it accessible for wheelchair users. Sport & Fitness Flooring consulted CMS Danskin Acoustics – Gym Flooring Division to advise on potential solutions to address this challenge while remaining cost effective.The SolutionCMS Danskin Acoustics worked with Sport & Fitness Flooring to undertake on-site subjective testing to determine the level of sound reduction and vibration control that would be required. The primary objectives were to prevent vibration travelling into the structure of the building thus resulting in potential structural damage or unwanted noise levels on the ground floor below. Samples of different build ups were provided by CMS Danskin Acoustics on site for testing within a day of the initial request.“Throughout the planning stages CMS Danskin Acoustics acted as a ‘springboard’ for our ideas. They were extremely helpful in offering their expertise to find solutions to meeting the performance requirements of the floor,” said Darren Wood, Director of Sport & Fitness Flooring.Sport & Fitness Flooring worked with CMS Danskin Acoustics to identify a way of raising the floor in different areas to meet a consistent 84mm thickness throughout, without having an adverse effect on the acoustic performance of the flooring. CMS Danskin Acoustics developed a bespoke specification for the four key areas, with solutions subsequently presented to the architect and approved for use on the project.The ResultCMS Danskin Acoustics was able to meet the performance, volume, and diversity of product needed to effectively treat the floor at a competitive price and on budget.In the main gym area, a high-performance combination of everroll® Multitile (everroll Multitile 27mm) was bonded to Regupol® 40/80 Acoustic Foam and fitted to Regupol® Vibration 300. In the cardiovascular zone, Multitile (everoll Multitile 27mm) was bonded to Regufoam® 270 acoustic PU foam and fitted to ply which was adhered to Regupol® Vibration 300. The track was treated with BOK Sprint track bonded to a everroll® Impact Pad elastic layer, ply build up and Regupol® Vibration 300. Finally, concrete effect Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) were used to create a purpose-built ramp up to the 84mm floor level from the entrance lobby.On day one of the build schedule, there was a timed delivery of the material. The bespoke order was exactly as specified and allowed installation to begin immediately with no delays. CMS Danskin Acoustics attended Oaksey House to provide expert on-site support and technical guidance on the installation. The project finished a week ahead of schedule, on budget and the flooring met all the performance requirements that were specified. Crucially, a consistent floor level was successfully achieved throughout the gym.“It’s quite common for suppliers to just sell a material and move on, but CMS Danskin Acoustics deliver a first-class expert and professional service from initial technical involvement, to tracking, delivery, installation and sign off. We regularly work with CMS Danskin Acoustics on various bespoke projects and are always confident in the solutions and expertise provided,” concluded Darren.
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Nine Elms Parkside Case Study: Under Screed Acoustic Layer

Nine Elms Parkside Case Study: Under Screed Acoustic Layer

CMS Danskin Acoustics

Nine Elms Parkside: Under Screed Acoustic LayerWhen carrying out a large-scale housing development it pays to rely on tried and tested products to provide acoustic certainty. Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) is one such product. With a long history of reliability, it is now being installed in the UK’s largest single-phase build to rent development.The ProjectNine Elms Parkside is the redevelopment of a 5.6 hectare Royal Mail depot site in Wandsworth, a key part the Vauxhall Battersea Opportunity Area, sitting between Battersea Power Station and Nine Elms market and adjacent to the new US Embassy. The scheme is master planned around the new Nine Elms Linear Park, part of a new green link connecting Battersea Park in the west, along the Thames to Lambeth Palace Gardens in the east.Blocks B and D Nine Elms Parkside were acquired in 2019 by real estate groups Henderson Park and Greystar who contracted Telford Homes to construct 641,000sft of residential space to a design by Allies & Morrison.The scheme consists of 894 build to rent apartments in two twin blocks of 10 to 17 storeys, each of which also features 12,500sft of amenity space with a rooftop swimming pool, gym, pet spa, children’s play space, private dining rooms, cinema rooms and a sky lounge. There are two large outdoor terraces, yoga gardens and community herb gardens complete with beehives. The scheme will also contain 25,000 sq ft of retail and community space.CMS Danskin is supplying Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient Layer to Stanmore, the leading drylining and façade specialist subcontractors who are carrying out the screeding between floors in the apartments.The project to supply commenced in 2020 and we have to date supplied over 96,000m2 of the product. Topping out took place in July 2021, residents will begin to occupy the scheme in 2022 and the units are expected to be fully complete in 2024.Acoustic insulation for new build apartmentsSince 2004 the Building Regulations require that separating floors between apartments meet specific requirements for airborne and impact sound transmission. The requirements are set out in Approved Document E, Resistance to the passage of sound.With a 150mm concrete slab, common in multi storey new build apartments under 18 storeys, a product is required to isolate the structure from a floating screed, thereby significantly reducing impact and airborne noise and enhancing the living conditions of occupants of the apartments.Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient Layer is an isolating layer specifically designed for this purpose and is the go-to product for floating screeds over 150mm concrete slabs.Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient Layer isA high performing insulation that delivers superior impact and airborne performance.An under-screed product designed to isolate screeds from the main structure simply and conveniently.Manufactured from recycled materials – typically aircraft tyres – making it cost effective and sustainable.Compatible with all types of floor screed, making it adaptable across a project and between projects.Aimed at constructions where Pre-Completion Testing (PCT) is preferred to a Robust Detail (RD) approach.Testing under screed insulation for acoustic performancePre-Completion Testing of acoustic floor installations gives a contractor more flexibility, allowing alternative layouts between apartments. If the designer wants to make changes to the layout of apartments, they won’t need to change the Robust Detail as each eventuality can be tested on site. With a project of over 860 flats a 10% required test rate would produce 86 acoustic tests, but the flexibility of using a PCT solution like 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5), and its reliability as an established product, makes that regime cost effective.Telford Homes, a long-standing customer of CMS Danskin, were looking for a Pre-Completion Testing product for Nine Elms blocks B and D. Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient Layer is an established product from an established brand, so not only were Telford Homes familiar with the product, but their experienced screeders Stanmore were also confident that testing on site would not raise any issues.Over a year into the project all the tests carried out so far have been successful.Supply chain reliabilityFor a large project with over 100,000m2 of product required over a long contract period, reliability of supply is essential. Any delay in supply can hold up wet trades and affect the critical path. With support from our supply chain partners, CMS Danskin has ensured over 96,000m2 of product has been delivered on time to date.Specify Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient LayerRegupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient Layer is a tried and tested solution to under screed insulation over a concrete slab, be it in apartments, hotels, education buildings or student accommodation. It provides excellent impact and airborne performance, is approved by NHBC for ADE 2003 compliance, and offers long term performance even under high loads.The product is completely recyclable and is produced from recycled materials. It provides Zero global warming potential (GWP) and zero ozone depletion potential (ODP).Regupol 7210C (REGUPOL sonus core 5) Acoustic Resilient Layer is supplied in easy to handle sheets which are quick and easy to install without the need for separate perimeter strips.
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North Sea Oil Platform ISO Enclosure Panels

North Sea Oil Platform ISO Enclosure Panels

CMS Danskin Acoustics

When undertaking a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) maintenance and upgrade contract on a North Sea offshore platform, RBG Limited identified that critical noise levels were apparent in a range of working areas.Investigating the issue, RBG Ltd commissioned environmental sound testing, which revealed that ambient noise exceeded a specified minimum of 55dB (A) throughout the electrical workshop, store room, hydraulic workshop, subsea office and mechanical workshop, reaching its highest levels of 88-96dB (A) in the mud pit room. Additional noise generated by operating pumps, cranes and machinery would further increase the noise levels in these areas.As such, RBG Ltd needed to source a high performance industrial acoustic solution that would sufficiently reduce the noise contamination and make the working environment acceptable.Seeking expert industrial acoustics advice, RBG Ltd briefed CMS Acoustics on the project parameters, who responded with a bespoke ISO Acoustic Enclosure Panel system design.The SolutionThe ISO Enclosure Panel is a prefabricated sound reduction system, designed to create noise-protected structures in industrial environments. A self-supporting and robust construction, it offers the additional benefit of a short assembly time, facilitated by the panels being lightweight and easy to handle.The industrial acoustics technical team at CMS Acoustics calculated that a combination of 50mm and 100mm thick ISO Enclosure Panels would be required to achieve the specified noise reduction in the different areas. Depending on panel thickness, fire resistance ranging from 30 minutes to two hours can be achieved.For RBG Ltd, CMS Acoustics manufactured the panels in white and supplied them in ready to assemble kits clearly labelled according to area for installation. Some panels were manufactured to allow removal for maintenance while others were designed to be stud welded to external walls.To increase system robustness, CMS Acoustics integrated acoustic doors and vision panels into the ISO Enclosure design.
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Premier Inn Scarborough Isogrid

Premier Inn Scarborough Isogrid

CMS Danskin Acoustics

Isolating Hotel Rooms from RestaurantsPreventing noise transmission between the noisy areas of a building to the quiet areas is an ongoing challenge. When the quiet areas are people sleeping and the noisy area is a busy hotel dining room, the problem is particularly acute, but can be resolved by using the appropriate products which are cost effective and easy to install correctly.The ProjectPremier Inn Scarborough North is a new build 105 room, 5-storey hotel with a 68-cover restaurant, which was completed in March 2021. The new hotel was granted planning permission in 2018 and construction was slightly delayed over the Covid lockdown period.Owner of the Premier Inn brand, Whitbread, continues to see strong growth with their UK business continuing to outperform in the midscale and economy market and now has over 800 hotels in the UK. Key to the brand’s message is that wherever you stay in a Premier Inn, you will always get great levels of comfort.The ChallengeSources of noise which affect hotel guests include:External sources of noise and vibrationTransmission between rooms and between rooms and corridorsTransmission from engineering systems (ventilation and air conditioning, heating systems, lifts and so on)Transmission from public areas – reception, conference facilities and in particular restaurants.Noise transmission from restaurants, bars and reception areas becomes a significant challenge where the design of the hotel incorporates these areas on the ground floor of a block, with hotel rooms directly above.Reducing the transmission of noise from a large common area to individual hotel rooms rests principally on isolating the plasterboard or suspended ceiling. To overcome this challenge, a frequent recommendation is to design a ceiling incorporating neoprene isolation hangers.Neoprene Isolation Hangers for HotelsNeoprene isolation hangers are primarily used to isolate suspended sources of audible frequency vibration, such as piping and ductwork systems. They also provide very effective vibration isolation for hanging acoustic ceilings by preventing transmission of noise to the building structure.The isolation hangers supplied for use in the ceiling at Premier Inn Scarborough North were Isogrid Quick-Connect Ceiling Hangers, supplied by CMS Danskin Acoustics.The IsoGrid Quick Connect Ceiling Hanger has a specially designed dual deflection neoprene isolator which allows internal bulging. This enables the neoprene element to achieve greater deflections whilst maintaining lateral stability. Greater deflection translates to greater performance for noise control ceilings.IsoGrid Quick-Connect Ceiling Hangers have several other benefits:They are more cost effective than similar products;The simple design makes them quick and easy to install, providing significant labour savings over conventional sound control ceiling hangers;The known deflection rates ensure acoustical performance under design loads;Tested for airborne, impact and frequency performance to BS EN ISO 10140 requirements;Various attachment methods allow for installation on a variety of ceiling structures, including concrete, metal deck or structural framing;A bronze core serves to prevent poor acoustic performance due to over compression or due to accidental short circuiting of the transmission pathway.InstallationThe ceiling was installed by specialist contractor B W Shrimpton Limited. This was the first time that Shrimpton’s had used IsoGrid hangers, but they were well received.Supervisor Kirk Talbot, who has worked closely with the CMS Danskin Acoustics Team on several projects, explained his preference for the hangers is very much about the ease of installation:“We used Hilti pan head HUS fixings into the soffit for fixing them up, and the lads on site had no issues with them at all.“The IsoGrid hangers are definitely robust enough and easy to fix angle or wires to. On that basis and the cheapness compared to other hangers out there, I’d definitely use them again and will recommend that others do too.”Kirk Talbot, BW Shrimpton LtdTechnical Advice on Acoustics in HotelsCMS Danskin Acoustics are specialists in soundproofing materials and acoustic insulation. Our expert technical team can advise on the specification of a wide range of specialist acoustic and vibration control systems – balancing performance, aesthetics and budget. We provide solutions to treat floors, walls and ceilings, as required, delivering a holistic design approach to sound control for the complete gym or sports hall environment.We don’t just design, manufacture and deliver market leading products. We work with the entire supply chain and project teams to ensure a smooth path from conception to completion.
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Pure Gym Canterbury

Pure Gym Canterbury

CMS Danskin Acoustics

BackgroundPure Gym has recently opened a brand-new facility in Canterbury. The gym hosts over 220 pieces of state-of-the-art equipment, including cardio apparatus, treadmills, rowers and spin bikes. Customers also get to benefit from a free weights zone and a fixed weights area, as well as access to a multitude of fitness classes.The ChallengeSituated on the first floor of a mixed-use development, a jack-up floor was specified to prevent vibrations from transferring into the building structure. However, to ensure the development was fit for purpose, Pure Gym believed additional treatment was needed to further enhance the performance of the floor and reduce unwanted noise.As such, Pure Gym commissioned an acoustic consultant to produce a report outlining the exact performance criteria that would need to be met across different areas of the gym. The report recommended individual performance standards for the free weights zone and the rest of the studio. One of the main challenges was to find a solution that would meet the specification but also be delivered for installation within a strict two-week period.In addition to the prompt supply time, the solution also needed to match the Pure Gym aesthetic guidelines and corporate colours. Pure Gym approached CMS Danskin Acoustics detailing the project specification, seeking advice on what solutions were available to meet the criteria.The SolutionCMS Danskin Acoustics used the consultant’s report to identify system build ups that would best achieve the specified performance detail. Two separate build-ups proposed by CMS Danskin Acoustics were subsequently approved for use. For the free weights area, a build-up of two layers of Regufoam® in grades 220 and 270, plus a 43mm everroll® Weightlayer (everroll multitile 43mm) was supplied. For the remainder of the studio, two layers of 15mm Regupol® Vibration 480 was supplied, complimented by a final floor finish of 10mm everroll®.The specified finish of black and grey EPDM was also matched by CMS Danskin Acoustics and all materials were produced for installation within the strict two-week time frame.The ResultCMS Danskin Acoustics was able to quickly identify solutions with the required technical capabilities from across the breadth of its product portfolio. The volume of material needed was in stock, allowing a quick turnaround for Pure Gym to meet the specified project completion date.Pure Gym opened to the public on the proposed launch date and is now fully operational. The treatments provided by CMS Danskin Acoustics are providing a robust solution to reducing unwanted noise, protecting the structure of the gym floor and preventing vibrations travelling into the structure of the building.CMS Danskin Acoustics is now one of Pure Gym’s preferred suppliers and has since worked on projects such as the new build of a two-storey facility in Croydon, and the refurbishment of the Winwick Quay site in Warrington.“The service CMS Danskin Acoustics provides is of an extremely high standard. Their expert advice, quality of the product and efficiency in getting the materials to site, were instrumental in allowing us to complete the project on time. The superb service has instilled a confidence in us to develop our relationship with CMS Danskin Acoustics as a trusted supplier,” commented John Graham, Pure Gym Property Development Director.
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Regupol 4515: Ideal for Student Accommodation

Regupol 4515: Ideal for Student Accommodation

CMS Danskin Acoustics

Regupol Insulates Liverpool’s £1 Billion IndustryWith a host of universities, colleges and institutes of higher education, Liverpool is a city that values its students. Not least because students are extremely valuable to Liverpool.There are approximately 50,000 students in Liverpool. Of those current 50,000 students, 34,000 require accommodation. There are 20,324 purpose-built student homes in the city and 2,650 residences currently being built, with planning permission for a further 2,483.The estimated value of Liverpool’s student population to the local economy is more than £1 billion. That’s greater than the combined revenues generated by both football and The Beatles. What’s more, student numbers have been increasing year-on-year.Quality student accommodation is vital to this burgeoning market.Philharmonic Court, located on Catherine Street behind the historic Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, is a £25 million development of two linked structures offering accommodation for 354 University of Liverpool students. The new building, by Worthington Properties, replaces five outdated student blocks.Acoustics are a crucial factor in student residences, given the need to accommodate both youthful exuberance and the demands of serious academic study. As with all residential structures, the requirements of Part E (Resistance to Sound) of the Building Regulations must be adhered to.Offering impact sound resistance between 18dB and 34dB (depending on the final floor finish), and able to not only meet but exceed the demands of Part E, CMS Danskin’s Regupol 4515 Eco (REGUPOL sonus eco) was specified. More than 11,000m2 of the resilient layer material was installed throughout the four and five storey buildings.At just 3mm thickness, Regupol 4515 Eco (REGUPOL sonus eco) resilient layer punches above its weight, not only delivering exceptional sound resistance but also offering long-term performance with a density of approximately 470kg/m3 and a tensile strength of approximately 0.12N/mm2 in accordance with DIN Standards. This offers outstanding resistance to deformation, even under high point loads.
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Regupol Vibration Case Study: Gainsborough’s House

Regupol Vibration Case Study: Gainsborough’s House

CMS Danskin Acoustics

The redevelopment of Gainsborough’s House in Suffolk required specialist acoustic design to isolate the structure from the vibrations of a nearby silk mill. Regupol Vibration offered a practical solution, but the project was not without its challenges, including a tight site and lockdown restrictions.The ProjectGainsborough’s House is the childhood home of the renowned 18th Century artist Thomas Gainsborough. The house and gardens, which are Grade 1 listed, were purchased by the Gainsborough’s House Society and were first opened to the public in 1961, housing a permanent collection of his work.Ambitious plans for the redevelopment of the house will transform it into a national centre for art in Suffolk, showcasing the influence of Gainsborough over other famous British landscape artists he inspired such as John Constable and JMW Turner, and acting as catalyst for regeneration of the town of Sudbury.As part of this project a new three storey wing is under construction next door to Gainsborough’s House, on the site of a former Labour Exchange. The contemporary building with a staggered roofline has been designed by architects and exhibition designers ZMMA. Complementing the existing listed buildings, which are to be upgraded, the project will create the largest gallery in Suffolk housing the widest collection of Gainsborough’s art and the art of those he inspired. The entire project is valued at £9m and construction began in the Autumn of 2019.Acoustic ChallengesFacilities in the new building will include permanent and temporary galleries, a landscape studio with panoramic views over the rooftops of the town and a new café overlooking the 18th Century garden. Whilst contemporary in appearance the extension will incorporate local materials including bricks from the historic Bulmer brickworks just outside the town, and interiors featuring famous Sudbury Silk.Sudbury has been a major silk manufacturing centre for centuries and five companies still make silk textiles in the town. Vanner’s Silk Mill, directly to the North of the site, has been producing Sudbury Silk for 250 years. However, its proximity to the new gallery is a challenge.Vibration Isolation for Art Gallery FoundationsAcoustic specialists Sandy Brown identified that the silk factory workings are a source of vibration throughout the surrounding grounds and buildings, which has the potential to interfere with the peace and tranquility of the new building.To mitigate this risk, respected engineers Eckersley O’Callaghan worked on a series of foundation design incorporating vibration isolation materials, which isolate the new structure from the surrounding ground. The successful design specified the use of Regupol Vibration Solution products, a range of isolation products which can be used to provide a resilient layer within foundations to isolate a building from structure borne vibrations.CMS Danskin Acoustics are the sole UK distributor of Regupol products. Regupol and Regufoam Vibration product ranges provide a combined 20 different grades of isolation material which can be used in a wide load range between 0.002 N/mm² and 2.5 N/mm². This wide range provides the opportunity to design efficient isolation concepts for even the most challenging vibration scenarios.The new building has a complex foundation plan with multiple stepped foundations and ground beams, producing three different regions of pressure. Each area required a different combination of material thickness and density to provide the appropriate deflection and natural frequency required. CMS Danskin Acoustics worked with the design team to develop a bespoke acoustic insulation strategy for Gainsborough’s House that was both efficient and effective.Working under Covid LockdownConstruction commenced in late 2019 with the demolition of the existing labour exchange where the new galleries were to be built. Principal contractor Thomas Sinden was ready in the spring of 2020 for the installation of the vibration insulation materials by specialist groundworks contractor T Vaughan. The narrow historic streets of Sudbury prevented the use of cranes and all materials had to be delivered by smaller vehicles.Regupol products are manufactured from recycled aircraft tyres in Germany, and the timing of the project during the first Covid lockdown couldn’t have been worse. However, CMS Danskin Acoustics retain good stock quantities and delivery of the required 1400m2 of rolls and tiles was not delayed by the suspension of travel.The design of the vibration isolation scheme called for several layers of Regupol Vibration 300, 450 and 480 in varying thicknesses, which were laid and cut over the foundation according to the insulation strategy. Each layer has staggered joints and the entire scheme is then covered with a separation membrane prior to the pouring of the floor slab.The new galleries at Gainsborough’s House are expected to open to the public in the Spring of 2022, and enjoyment of the spaces will be unaffected by the centuries old industry continuing next door.Vibration Isolation ServicesVibration Isolation is a specialist skill. The vibration team at CMS Danskin Acoustics have a unique ability to specify and supply anti-vibration and structural isolation solutions. Working with architects, contractors, acoustic consultants, developers and structural engineers, we can provide solutions that meet the requirements of all noise and vibration regulations, whether in the construction or industrial sector.We can provideEarly involvement in your projectTechnical recommendations at design stageTechnical support and submittalsOn-site support, prior, during and after installation.Project ParticipantsClient                           Gainsborough’s House SocietyArchitect                       ZMMAAcoustic Consultant       Sandy BrownStructural Engineers       Eckersley O’CallaghanMEP Engineers              Bower FullerGroundworks Contractor T Vaughan LimitedPrincipal Contractor      Thomas Sinden
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Regupol® 6010BA (REGUPOL sonus curve 17) used at Sainsbury’s New Build Mixed-Use Retail Development

Regupol® 6010BA (REGUPOL sonus curve 17) used at Sainsbury’s New Build Mixed-Use Retail Development

CMS Danskin Acoustics

As part of a £40 million re-development of an existing shopping centre in Farnborough, a new Sainsbury’s was to be the anchor store. The development was designed as a mixed use site and after a review of the store it was identified that project contractors, RG Group, would need to prevent the impact/structure-borne noise from travelling from the store and into the residential apartments situated above.RG Group, were required to install Regupol® 6010BA (REGUPOL sonus curve 17) in order to provide high performance as well as ease of use, necessary in meeting the tight deadlines of the project.The SolutionAcoustic consultants, 24 Acoustics, specified Regupol® 6010BA (REGUPOL sonus curve 17) to ‘float’ the entire shop floor. Quick and easy to install, RG Group was able to cover an area of 4,000m2 efficiently against tight timescales.Manufactured from recycled tyre crumb and resistant to ageing and deformation, Regupol® 6010BA (REGUPOL sonus curve 17) has a maximum load bearing capacity of 50kN/m2 and performs well, even under high point loads. This was a specific consideration for Sainsbury’s as various point loads, such as plant rooms, would be apparent in the final fit-out of the store.Regupol® 6010BA (REGUPOL sonus curve 17) has also been proven to retain its performance characteristics for a long and maintenance free lifespan. A sustainable specification, Regupol® 6010BA (REGUPOL sonus curve 17) offers zero GWP (Global Warming Potential) and zero ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential). Moreover, in addition to being manufactured from recycled materials, it is also completely recyclable.The ResultMeeting the tight deadline imposed on the project was facilitated by the efficient and on-time deliveries of material to site and the quick and easy installation of Regupol® 6010BA (REGUPOL sonus curve 17). With an impact sound insulation of 43dB and airborne sound insulation of 65dB, Regupol® 6010BA (REGUPOL sonus curve 17) achieved Sainsbury’s performance specifications and minimised sound transfer from the store.Louis Vandermerwe, RG Group, commented: “We were extremely impressed with the turnaround times from CMS Acoustics. As soon as Regupol was identified as the most cost effective and high performing isolation solution to meet the project requirements, we needed to move quickly to installation. The material was delivered to site exactly when we needed, and proved quick and easy to install.”
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Restoration and Reverberation at Liverpool Central Library

Restoration and Reverberation at Liverpool Central Library

CMS Danskin Acoustics

When American architect, Louis Sullivan, in 1896, said, “Form ever follows function” he probably hadn’t foreseen the creation of the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest that would have its origins in the devastation left in the wake of the Second World War.The ChallengeThe preservation of old buildings is challenging enough but additional issues arise when it comes to refurbishments and renovations, particularly if there is a material change of use. Suddenly, a building that was created for one purpose is given another, sometimes radically different, purpose. The form can’t follow the function if the function is allocated post-construction. Significant modifications can help align an old building with its new function but, in the case of Grade II listed buildings, for example, the interior can’t be fundamentally changed and function is forced to compromise.Even when there is no significant change of use, modern building regulations demand performance standards that didn’t even exist at the time that buildings currently being renovated were originally envisioned and created. The requirements of Part E of the Building Regulations, governing soundproofing between floors of a building, are relatively easy to shoehorn into a renovation project as these tend to be concealed beneath floor finishes and screeds. Problems with reverberation are far more difficult to tackle and even though there is very little regulation surrounding this issue, BB93 of the Building Regulations, governing reverberation levels in schools, tends to be employed as an effective benchmark.When reverberation levels reach a certain point, they can become more than just an irritation, with the overlap between what is currently being said and what was said a couple of seconds ago becoming genuinely disruptive. In schools, this can make it extremely difficult for children to follow what their teacher is saying. For this reason, BB93 demands a reverberation time of 0.8 seconds or less, with 0.4 seconds being seen as ideal. Reverberation time is described as the time taken for the sound pressure to fall by 60 decibels after the original sound has ceased abruptly. So, in the case of BB93, 0.8 seconds or less after a sound has been made, that sound should have decreased by 60dB. 60dB is a significant drop, the difference between a construction site with pneumatics drills and a busy department store.It is in situations like this, when form and function appear determined to have nothing to do with one another, that architects and the designers of construction materials are driven towards increasingly innovative and paradigm-shifting solutions. The stereotype of the architect who is concerned only with form and is completely disinterested in function is, thankfully, a thing of the past (if these individuals ever really existed at all). Modern architects don’t create buildings so much as living and working spaces, where physical aesthetics are neatly balanced with a host of other concerns, such as the quality of an environment’s acoustics.Although regulation sets crucial, legally-enforceable parameters, few architects need to be incentivised to aim high when it comes to a building’s acoustics.This drive towards innovation has resulted in widely differing solutions. Reflector panels and diffusers redirect sound waves or disburse them more evenly through the listening environment, reducing nuisance noise. These solutions tend to be employed in lecture halls or auditoria, where a certain amount of volume is desirable, but the quality of the sound is crucial. The most commonly employed anti-reverberation product is the sound absorption panel. These fabric covered panels are mounted on the walls of a room or suspended from the ceiling. When the sound wave enters the open cell structure or fibrous composition of the panel, it bounces around like a pinball. The friction resulting from each instance of impact is converted into low-level heat which is absorbed into the material. When the sound wave re-emerges, its energy, and consequently its ‘loudness’, is significantly diminished. This tends to be the solution of choice for classrooms and is generally considered to be the quickest and most cost-effective route to BB93 compliance.Some acoustic challenges are more demanding than others. The renovation of the Picton Reading Room, part of the £50 million redevelopment of Liverpool Central Library, being a case in point. Not only is the reading room contained within a Grade II listed building, it also boasts an elaborate coffered saucer dome. Domes are something of an acoustician’s nightmare, as they focus rather than distribute sound, exacerbating reverberation problems. All of which means a dropped pencil in the Picton Reading Room sounds like a Keith Moon drum solo. Why Cornelius Sherlock, the reading room’s architect, decided to incorporate a dome – one 100 feet in diameter and 56 feet high – into his design for a space that was intended for quiet study is a little bewildering, even if his work does predate Sullivan’s remarks by a couple of decades.Thousands of hours of work have gone into restoring the ceiling of the Picton Reading Room, with plaster, paint and gold leaf being matched as closely as possible to the original 1875 design. Given the need to be true to the form of the original, certain anti-reverberation solutions were unworkable. Reflectors, diffusers and baffles couldn’t be suspended from the ceiling, as all those thousands of hours of work would be hidden from view and the Nineteenth Century aesthetics undermined. Wall-mounted sound absorption panels were not a viable option, as there was very little wall to speak of, with three levels of solid wood bookshelves encircling the room, almost up to the beginning of the dome.Recent innovations in the area of acoustic plaster held the solution. Sound absorbent plaster has been around for some years, offering a smooth appearance which conceals a porous, granular structure similar to that found in sound absorption panels. However, until recently, the amount of sound absorption offered has always been limited to Class ‘B’ and Class ‘C’. Now, however, Class ‘A’ acoustic plaster systems are available. It was just such an acoustic plaster that CMS Danskin used for the Liverpool Central Library project.Because of the limited surface area in the Picton Reading Room, Ellie Morris, CMS Danskin’s Technical Support Coordinator, hit upon the idea of applying the acoustic plaster into the soffits beneath the balconies of the upper shelving areas. The results were a resounding (or un-resounding) success. A relatively small amount of an innovative product, cleverly applied brought a 138-year old listed building’s acoustics in line with contemporary standards and not a hint of compromise in sight.
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Sound Absorption Solution for CCGT Power Station at Landivisiau in Brittany

Sound Absorption Solution for CCGT Power Station at Landivisiau in Brittany

CMS Danskin Acoustics

Efficient Approach Dramatically Reduces Turbine Noise at CCGT Power StationsTen years after it was first used at Uskmouth, this innovative approach to soundproofing that reduces insulation depth by up to 76%, is once again commissioned in France.Dangerous Levels of NoiseModern dry cooling systems offer many benefits over traditional systems in CCGT power stations, but they have the disadvantage of being a complex source of noise transmission. The turbine noise recorded coming from the dry cooling system at the Severn Power CCGT Power Station at Uskmouth was between 130dB(A) and 135dB(A). Exposure to these levels of noise, a full 50dB above The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 “upper action level”, will cause both immediate and permanent damage.When acoustics and soundproofing specialist, CMS Danskin Acoustics, were brought in by SPX Cooling Technologies, designers of Uskmouth’s dry cooling system, they discovered not only high levels of noise but also that the noise generated had a very low-frequency bias, the most difficult noise spectrum to treat.Solutions for low-frequency noise issues typically involve wrapping the problem in significant quantities of acoustic insulation, with many standard solutions being as deep as 500mm to 700mm. The sheer volume of lagging required for an insulation-based approach to a project like Uskmouth, with 8,000m2 of ducting to be covered, would be expensive, time-consuming to install and prohibitively disruptive.The New Approach proven at UskmouthThe challenge of producing a soundproofing system that would be cost effective and efficient to install was taken up by CMS Danskin Acoustic’s Technical Direct Paul Absolon. CMS Danskin has a reputation for effective, high quality acoustic solutions tailored to the specific challenge, and this solution was no different.Exploring the wide range of acoustic materials from the company’s industrial acoustics range, Paul opted for a combination of materials working in concert: the unique CMS HTIB elastomeric isolation pads, constructed from a polyurethane-bound rubber granulate with excellent dampening and isolation characteristics; QuietSlab SVX3, a high-performance, mineral- fibre acoustic lagging; and WBKT Acoustic Barriers, a high-density, barium-sulphate-loaded thermoplastic polymer, which is thin, flexible and easy to work with.By using a bespoke combination of materials which each tackled specific aspects of the problem, CMS Danskin Acoustics were able to create a soundproofing solution with a construction depth of just 170mm, between 66% and 76% thinner than the 500-700mm standard solution. Disruption was minimised and material costs reduced.Once complete, the system was rigorously tested by SPX Cooling Technologies and Uskmouth’s main contractor, Siemen’s Energy. CMS Danskin Acoustics’ solution had reduced the noise generated by 39%, to just 82-83dB(A), under the 85dB “upper action level” listed in The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.Peter Ullrich, project director, Siemens Energy, commented at the time:“Effectively controlling noise and reducing sound emissions was a top priority for us in the Uskmouth project. Not only was it essential that the dry cooling system satisfied all the legal acoustic obligations and regulations but just as important was that neighbouring properties were not disturbed by additional noise levels.”Repeat Success at LandivisiauTen years on, the same successful approach has been applied to the dry cooling system at the new CCGT Power Station at Landivisiau in Brittany, north-western France. Also built by Siemens, the dry cooling system was supplied by SPG Dry Cooling. In the case of Landivisiau, even greater sound reduction was required, from approximately 140dB(A) to below The Control of Noise at Work Regulations limit of 85dB(A).To meet this challenge, SPG and CMS Danskin collaborated on extensive testing at the acoustic testing laboratory of SRL Technical Services. The reductions achieved during testing as part of the specification process were some of the largest reductions in sound ever measured at SRL.Once the specification was confirmed, CMS Danskin worked with SPG to ensure that materials for the multi-layer acoustic solution were prepared and delivered efficiently so that SPG’s installers always had the correct materials on site. The installation of the acoustic soundproofing was completed in October 2021 and the power station entered commission as planned in April 2022.“CMS Danskin Acoustics Limited successfully supplied the acoustic material package for the project which was tested at SRL to give an overall lab test reduction of 68dB Rw.”Robert Hill, Project Manager, SPG Dry Cooling
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Sound Absorption Solution for Moneypenny Call Centre HQ

Sound Absorption Solution for Moneypenny Call Centre HQ

CMS Danskin Acoustics

With a purpose-built development on the cards in its home town of Wrexham, Wales; Moneypenny had a 10-acre plot with which to design a new office space which could house up to 1,000 employees. However, unlike many traditional office projects of this nature; Moneypenny approached the building design in a very unique way. The £15m headquarters’ top line brief was to create a development which would literally ‘put a smile on people’s faces’.
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SuperLag Quietslab used at ExxonMobil Oil Refinery

SuperLag Quietslab used at ExxonMobil Oil Refinery

CMS Danskin Acoustics

CMS DANSKIN ACOUSTICS recommended a bespoke combination of industrial acoustic materials to ensure noise at work compliance at ExxonMobil Oil Refinery. The ChallengeFawley Oil Refinery is the largest oil refinery in the UK. When ExxonMobil found that the noise output from two industrial fans at the refinery exceeded the levels specified by The Control of Noise at Work Regulations, it consulted CMS Danskin Acoustics for advice. To ensure the most cost effective and high performing materials were specified, CMS Danskin Acoustics evaluated the noise reduction required on-site. Evaluation of the acoustic data revealed that noise levels in excess of 118dB at 125Hz were being emitted by the fans. Based on these criteria, the technical team at CMS Danskin Acoustics recommended the use of a combination of specialist materials from its industrial acoustic range. The SolutionTo control the low frequency-biased sound, CMS Danskin Acoustics recommended and supplied the SuperLag Quietslab Laminate with Acoustic Barrier Type WB10 combination for the fan casings and associated ductwork. Creating a multi-layered, high performance system, two layers of SuperLag Quietslab Laminate, totalling 250mm thickness, with a core of 5mm Acoustic Barrier Type WB10, were bonded onto the fan casings and ductwork. A direct coupled lagging system, SuperLag Quietslab Laminate comprises long-stranded mineral fibres thermo-set with resins for the absorption of sound at the surface, as well as a high mass inner acoustic barrier core to reduce the transmission of sound through the material. Manufactured from a weight-enhanced, high-density material, Acoustic Barrier Type WB10 provides a flexible and cost effective treatment for chemical and refinery applications. In total, 1,000m2 of the SuperLag Quietslab Laminate/Acoustic Barrier Type WB10 materials were installed around the fans and ductwork to achieve the high levels of sound reduction required.ResultsThe high performance bespoke system specified by CMS Danskin Acoustics, significantly reduced the noise generated by the fans. This enabled ExxonMobil to comply with The Control of Noise at Work Regulations by bringing noise levels under the 85dB compliance level.
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SuperPhon gifts sound of silence to Droylsden Academy music rooms

SuperPhon gifts sound of silence to Droylsden Academy music rooms

CMS Danskin Acoustics

Opened in 2009, Droylsden Academy in Manchester is a contemporary, open plan teaching environment. The state-of-the-art secondary school serves 1,400 pupils, however since opening it had become apparent that its design and layout had some challenges, in a large part due to the sound pollution associated with the open-plan layout. Contractors Buildmain were briefed to reconfigure a number of areas in order to minimise reverberation and improve the learning environment – and looked to CMS Danskin to identify an appropriate remedial acoustic solution.The ChallengeOne area of the school that needed particular attention was the music room, which was too large to be conducive to effective music practice. Contractors Buildmain were briefed to reconfigure the space into four separate rooms, to provide a soundproof environment for music recital and practice. The new practice rooms were to adjoin an existing classroom and the communal corridor, so controlling reverberation was an integral part of the scheme – the architects had specified the control of sound levels up to 68dB.The SolutionA complete overhaul of the existing music rooms was required – partition walls were removed and a new layout designed to incorporate the four separate practice rooms, an internal corridor and a store room. To achieve the dB rating of 68, Buildmain opted for a combination of acoustic solutions provided by CMS Danskin, including SuperPhon panels in all four rooms.In order to control reverberation in the area, Buildmain constructed the new rooms using a twin-wall method, using 15mm Soundbloc plasterboard with an acoustic matting sandwiched between the layers. The walls were then over-clad using IsoMax Acoustic Insulation Clips. A total of 20 panels were installed by direct fix to the walls of each of the four new music rooms. The 50mm thick panels were supplied in three sizes; 1200x600mm, 1000x500mm and 1000x750mm, and the colour was matched to the school’s existing interior scheme.To offer even higher levels of absorption, CMS Danskin recommended SuperPhon acoustic wall panels to reduce reverberation times and reflected sound. To assist with the correct specification, a CMS Danskin representative visited the site, at short notice, to assess the rooms and subsequently advised on the best options for the SuperPhon panels.The ResultCMS Danskin worked closely with contractors Buildmain in order to meet the very tight time frame of six weeks to install the Superphon wall panels – the project needed to be completed within the school summer holidays, so that the rooms were ready for pupils on their return to school in September 2016.Paul Bryan of Buildmain said: “We had to fit eight weeks’ work into the six-week summer holiday, and CMS Danskin impressed us with their ability to turn around the product so quickly. Not only were they able to deliver to meet our schedule, they were also able to send out an expert to advise on the best options to meet the specification, all within the timeframe.”
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Superphon® Acoustic Rafts Present Ideal Solution for East Renfrewshire Council

Superphon® Acoustic Rafts Present Ideal Solution for East Renfrewshire Council

CMS Danskin Acoustics

“We have used products from CMS Danskin Acoustics on a variety of projects and always found them a good company to work with and very helpful to deal with,” said Gerry Winter, Allied Acoustics.The Council’s room was designed for holding meetings, training sessions and information days; but the acoustics in the room were distracting and the internal reverberation meant that hearing people speaking was difficult. CMS Danskin Acoustics engaged with the architect at East Renfrewshire Council to agree on the best solution without compromising on aesthetics, and ensuring they could offer the best value.The SolutionFollowing an on-site consultation at the Council with an external acoustician, CMS Danskin Acoustics was brought on-board to supply 25 SuperPhon® Acoustic Rafts; which are specially designed to reduce reverberation times and to improve listening environments. In addition, the tiles are available in a range of attractive colours meaning that the aesthetics of an internal building are not lost, which was of high importance to the Council. “The SuperPhon® Acoustic Rafts were chosen because they fitted with the style of the building, the need to retain the exposed roof structure and the fact that the fabric colour choice provided a less commercial ‘office feel’ to the final installation,” said Andrew Eaddy, East Renfrewshire Council.The ResultsFollowing the installation, CMS Danskin Acoustics carried out some calculations to evaluate how successful the Acoustic Rafts were performing. The team found that they had managed to bring the reverberation time down from 1.8 seconds to 0.8 seconds, ensuring a much-improved sound quality to the room for its multi-purpose activities.“The client was very happy with the end product at Rouken Glen and there was a substantial sound reduction after the panels were installed,” continued Gerry. “Overall we were very pleased with the results and the chosen product. The ease and speed of the installation, thanks to the bespoke fitting, meant that it wasn’t long before we were able to use the communal room again. We’re really pleased with the finish too, it’s exactly what we had in mind for the space,” concluded Andrew.
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The Challenges of Soundproofing in a Power Station Environment

The Challenges of Soundproofing in a Power Station Environment

CMS Danskin Acoustics

The fact that power stations produce high levels of noise won’t come as much of a surprise to anyone who has spent more than a few minutes inside one. Quite how dangerous these levels of noise can be, however, might.How Loud is ‘Too Loud’?To give you an idea of the sensitivity of the human ear, the average person can hear sounds down to about 0 decibels (dB), the equivalent of a whisper or rustling leaves, and people with exceptional hearing can detect sounds as low as -15dB.It is at the other end of the scale, however, that serious problems can occur. At around 85dB, you are likely to experience discomfort. As little as eight hours of continuous exposure to this level of noise can result in permanent damage to the inner ear, which is why 85dB is the maximum allowed under the Noise at Work Regulations. At 100dB, just fifteen minutes of exposure can cause permanent damage. And at 110dB the exposure time drops to around a minute before harm is inflicted. Pain is experienced at 125dB and hearing loss can be permanent. At 140dB or above not only is the damage permanent, it is also immediate.The Noise at Work Regulations stipulate that an ‘employer shall ensure that risk from the exposure to noise is either eliminated at source or, where this is not reasonably practicable, reduced to as low a level as is reasonably practicable.” And that “if any employee is likely to be exposed to noise at or above an upper exposure action value, the employer shall reduce exposure to as low a level as is reasonably practicable by establishing and implementing a programme of organisational and technical measures, excluding the provision of personal hearing protectors, which is appropriate to the activity.” In other words, an employer is expected to do everything they can, within reason, to protect their employees from the harmful effects of noise. And, no, it isn’t enough to simply supply a pair of ear-defenders.Noise-Induced Hearing LossThe damage caused by these dangerous levels of noise is referred to as Noise-Induced Hearing Loss or NIHL. NIHL can be caused by a single exposure to a very loud sound or by repeated exposure to even relatively low levels of noise over a long time span. In fact, according to research carried out by Xiaoming Zhou from the East China Normal University in Shanghai, even seemingly innocuous sounds, such as the whirr of a desk fan, can cause damage if exposure is consistent and long-term.To understand how NIHL occurs, it’s necessary to understand how hearing works.The generally accepted view is that sound waves strike the eardrum and these vibrations are translated into coherent information by the brain. It is slightly more complex than that. Sound waves do, indeed, strike the eardrum, causing the eardrum to vibrate. These vibrations are then transmitted through the ossicles (the small bones of the middle ear) to the cochlea, a spiral-shaped chamber filled with fluid and lined with tiny hair cells called stereocilia. The vibrations cause the fluid to move which, in turn, causes the stereocilia to move. The stereocilia’s movements generate neural signals with are picked up by the auditory nerve which ‘forwards’ these signals onto the brain where they are interpreted as intelligible sounds human speech, music, the beep of car horn etc.Exposure to the harmful levels of noise mentioned above can damage the stereocilia, breaking them or flattening them so they no longer vibrate as effectively or so they no longer vibrate at all. The result: impaired hearing or, in extreme cases, total hearing loss.The noise recorded coming from the dry cooling system at the Severn Power CCGT Power Station at Uskmouth B was between 130dB(A) and 135dB(A), a full 50dB above Noise at Work Regulations’ acceptable levels. Regarding dB(A), the human ear does not hear all frequencies with the same intensity. It is most sensitive to sounds in the 500Hz-8kHz range. Above and below this range the ear becomes progressively less sensitive. To compensate for this, sound level meters incorporate electronic filtering to correspond to the varying sensitivities of the ear. This filtering is called A-weighting and readings obtained with this weighting are referred to as A-weighted and signified as dB(A).The Wrong Kind of NoiseAlthough it was identified that the dry cooling system from SPX Cooling Technologies was generating these dangerous and unacceptable levels of noise, it wasn’t the cooling system that was creating the noise. In fact, it was the turbines that were the source of the noise. The steam roaring from the turbines at incredibly high speeds enters the main 5.5m steam ducts, passes up five risers and is channeled into the steam distribution manifolds. Not only does the steam enter the dry cooling system, the accompanying noise does, too. You might think that the 8mm thick steel from which the ducts are constructed would go some way to containing the din. Unfortunately, steel is extremely adept at transmitting noise and is, in many respects, the acoustician’s worst enemy.To make matters worse, when acoustics and soundproofing specialists, CMS Danskin Acoustics, were brought in by SPX and Uskmouth’s main contractors, Siemens, they discovered not only high levels of noise but also that the noise generated had a very low-frequency bias. Low-frequency noise is the most difficult to treat from a soundproofing perspective due to the excessive length of the wave cycle. This is one of the reasons people in apartments, terraced houses and semi-detached homes will often complain of the problems of bass noises intruding from neighbouring properties, as the walls and floors filter out the higher frequencies whilst the lower frequencies manage to penetrate. This can seem a little counterintuitive, as we imagine higher frequency noise to be more piercing. Their short wave-cycle, however, means they can be blocked out with relatively thin soundproofing materials.The low-frequency nature of the noise also meant that this wasn’t just a Noise at Work Regulations problem. Low-frequency noise can be particularly problematic to the population in the vicinity of the source of that noise. Low frequency noise is often not even ‘heard’ in the traditional sense. Complainants often won’t even realise that noise is the problem at all; instead they will describe ‘pressure sensations’ and ‘physical discomfort’, experiencing the incursion as vibrations. Areas of the human body can resonate when exposed to low frequencies. The chest, for example, can resonate at frequencies between 50Hz and 100Hz, and the head at frequencies between 20Hz and 30Hz. It isn’t unusual, therefore, for sufferers of low frequency noise to complain of anxiety, nausea and headaches. Often, they won’t even be aware of the root cause of their symptoms, instead attributing them to a virus or some mystery illness.A New Approach and a Sound SolutionSolutions for low-frequency noise issues typically involve wrapping the problem in significant quantities of acoustic insulation, with many standard solutions being as deep as 500mm to 700mm. The sheer volume of lagging required for an insulation-based approach to a project like Uskmouth, with a daunting 8,000m2 of ducting to be covered, would be expensive, time-consuming to install and prohibitively disruptive. What’s more, there were areas around the ducting at Uskmouth which simply wouldn’t have been able to accommodate such an excessive construction height of soundproofing material.Paul Absolon, CMS Danskin Acoustics’ Technical Director, responded to the challenge of creating a ‘thinner’ soundproofing system that would meet the necessary Noise at Work Regulations requirements but would be cost-effective and efficient to install. In order to minimise disruption to Uskmouth, an off-site simulation was created near Burton on Trent, using a large section of identical ducting with a ‘door’ sealing up either end. Within the duct were several very powerful speakers. For testing, highly sensitive microphones were placed in strategic positions along the outside of the duct to measure any ‘leakage’. Acoustic insulation solutions were conceived, implemented and assessed in this controlled environment with the assistance of Acoustic Consultants Muller-BBM and the installation company Western Thermal Insulations.Exploring a wide range of acoustic materials from CMS Danskin Acoustics’ industrial acoustics range, it was clear that a single product was not going to be able to solve the problem on its own, so Paul opted for a combination of products working in concert, layer upon layer.The first layer consisted of CMS HT1B elastomeric isolation pads, constructed from a polyurethane-bound rubber granulate specifically formulated to dampen and/or isolate noise and vibrations at source and independently tested by the Institute of Structural Dynamics at the Technical University of Dresden. The 50mm thick pads were bonded to the surface of the duct at a rate of nine per square meter, creating 300mm spacings; so, as well as the dampening effects of the material itself, the construction benefited from large, evenly distributed airspaces in its foundations. Sound waves move less effectively through dead air.The second layer consisted of 50mm-thick QuietSlab SVX3, a high-performance, mineral-fibre acoustic lagging. MIMA (the Mineral Wool Insulation Manufacturers Association) describe the acoustic insulation properties of mineral wool (and mineral fibres more generally): “Porous materials such as mineral wool work to control and reduce noise by allowing air movement into the fabric of the material. The fluctuations of air molecules – which form sound waves – move into the body of the mineral wool, where friction between the air particles and the material’s narrow airways cause sound energy to be dissipated as heat.”
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The Gateway, Leeds, Regupol 4515 (REGUPOL sonus eco) Acoustic Underlay Case Study

The Gateway, Leeds, Regupol 4515 (REGUPOL sonus eco) Acoustic Underlay Case Study

CMS Danskin Acoustics

CMS Danskin were able to provide Regupol 4515 (REGUPOL sonus eco) to the prestigious new Gateway project in central Leeds. As the city centre’s largest residential project to date, it has also provided the area with a luxury landmark.In keeping with high-end living, the interior design of the new build project incorporated a number of characteristic atrium and foyer spaces. While this lack of uniformity gave the building and its apartments an impressive level of individuality, it also created irregular shaped rooms which were difficult to work with from a finishing perspective.The finish of the apartments incorporated tiles throughout all of the bathroom and shower areas. To comply with Part E impact sound regulations, an acoustic flooring system had been specified for use under the tiled floor finish. However, when the tile fitters began installation, a number of challenges emerged.Phil Johnson, building development manager at Aqua Interiors, explains:“The acoustic matting and adhesive combination we were initially using at The Gateway caused us a few problems. There were issues from the tile fitters regarding application of the adhesives, and the over flexibility of the system meant that the grouting was cracking and crumbling once the surface was subjected to weight and traffic.” As the tiling contractors were already on-site, a reliable alternative that would meet Part E standards for impact sound had to be sourced and delivered against extremely tight timescales.The SolutionAs the only acoustic tiling system on the market to comply with the UK Tiling Association’s (TTA)Coefficient of Restitution figure (0.56), a test method to assess the impact resistance of ceramic floor tiling, Regupol Acousti-Tile was identified as the best solution to overcome the difficulties being experienced at The Gateway.The main component in the Regupol Acousti-Tile system is Regupol 4515 Multi (REGUPOL sonus eco), a high performance acoustic underlay which isolates impact sound at source. Regupol 4515 Multi (REGUPOL sonus eco), which can be used with any finish, is first bonded to the construction’s base floor using Ardex AF200.Tiles are then laid on top of Regupol 4515 Multi (REGUPOL sonus eco) using BAL Acousti-Bond adhesive. The acoustic tiling system is completed by filling in the joints using an appropriate grout finish, which is dependent upon whether the base floor is concrete or timber.As a complete acoustic tiling system, all components of Regupol Acousti-Tile are delivered to site in a single delivery. Regupol 4515 Multi (REGUPOL sonus eco) and the complete Regupol range is available exclusively in the UK through CMS Acoustics.The ResultThe quality of the finished bathroom environments is in keeping with the ambition and attention to detail of The Gateway project overall. By installing RegupolAcousti-Tile, Aqua Interiors has ensured that the impressive tiled floor surfaces will not cause residents disruption because of excessive noise transfer between dwellings.Having undergone independent site trials, Regupol Acousti-Tile has been shown to achieve an impact sound value of up to 52dB, which is significantly less than the 62dB required by Part E of the Building Regulations.Johnson concludes: “All of the environments were around 4-5m², but there was a great deal of variation in the room shapes and sizes, meaning there were some changes to the setting once we were on-site.Regupol Acousti-Tile was versatile enough to cope with any changes we made – the Regupol 4515 Multi (REGUPOL sonus eco) element was easy to trim and shape while BAL Acousti-Bond offered the same.
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The Royal Shakespeare Theatre, High-Impact Mat Case Study

The Royal Shakespeare Theatre, High-Impact Mat Case Study

CMS Danskin Acoustics

The Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon has undergone an ambitious and exciting £112m project to install a brand new auditorium inside the skeleton of the art-deco original. The internal refit created some interesting acoustical challenges. One of the most important aspects of the project was to ensure that theatre performances were not disturbed by noise from other parts of the building. In particular, the gantry – from where scenery changes and lighting are managed – was identified as requiring a specialised acoustic solution, to stop the noise of people working behind the scenes from carrying through to the audience. This is where CMS Danskin stepped in.The SolutionAs soft flooring subcontractors on the project, Loughton Contracts installed CMS High Impact Mat in the gantry. Composed of reclaimed rubber, EPDM granulate and PUR binder, CMS High Impact Mat is a durable, environmentally friendly type of floor covering that reduces excess sound, prevents unwanted noise and has excellent impact reduction. CMS High Impact Mat is available in a variety of thicknesses and colours. Simple to install, LoughtonContracts fitted 573m² of blue, 10mm thick CMS High Impact Mat onto wooden, concrete and screeded floor areas in the theatre gantry. As a non-reflective, slip and tear resistant material that meets the highest safety standards, it provides a safe surface for an area of the theatre where there is constant movement of scenery, people and heavy lighting.CMS High Impact Mat also has other qualities which made it the preferred specification for this refurbishment. As well as providing high acoustic performance, it offers an aesthetic, ‘final floor finish’ which is warm underfoot and has anti-fatigue properties. It creates an attractive, comfortable and quiet working environment in the gantry, as well as contributing to the quality finish that runs throughout the theatre.
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Waitrose London - High Impact Mat

Waitrose London - High Impact Mat

CMS Danskin Acoustics

The ChallengeLocated in a densely populated area of London, the Balham branch of Waitrose had a responsibility to minimise the impact of its operations on the surrounding neighbourhood. Supermarkets are deceptively noisy, a solution was required in order to maintain low noise levels within the proximity of the store.Closely monitoring store activity, Waitrose identified that deliveries risked causing a disturbance to nearby residents – because metal cages used to carry stock generated high levels of noise when rolling across the uneven concrete floor, particularly when empty.To reduce noise levels during delivery times, Waitrose needed a durable acoustic flooring solution that would directly attenuate sound and withstand the impact of the cages. This was where CMS Danskin were able to step in and provide a valuable and reliable solution.The SolutionAfter reviewing the performance requirements of the store, CMS Acoustics recommended and installed High Impact Mat. Manufactured from a non-reflective and slip resistant material which exceeds the highest safety standards, CMS High Impact Mat reduces excess sound by cushioning and absorbing impact sound.Composed of reclaimed rubber, EPDM granulate and PUR binder, CMS High Impact Mat is an environmentally friendly product available in a range of thicknesses, from 4mm to 12mm. At Waitrose, the material was specified at a thickness of 10mm.The ResultQuick and easy to install, CMS Acoustics completed the 150m2 installation of High Impact Mat in just two days. Critical to minimising disruption to store operations, CMS High Impact Mat was able to carry traffic just 24 hours after installation.Waitrose branch manager, Steve Baller, commented: “As part of our commitment to minimise disruption to our neighbours it was important to find a product that would reduce noise. CMS High Impact Mat has proven to be an excellent product, the sound levels have been reduced substantially and the floor is able to withstand the weight of loads coming into the warehouse.”
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We put the "Shhh" in The Shard

We put the "Shhh" in The Shard

CMS Danskin Acoustics

When CMS Danskin Acoustics Limited was engaged by Progressive Group to ensure the Shangri-La Hotel’s 42 floors in the Shard were effectively soundproofed, it wasn’t a straightforward assignment. From the very first sketches drawn on a napkin by Piano during dinner with entrepreneur and property developer Irvine Sellar, the Shard was always intended to be ‘all about the windows’, with expressive façades of angled glass reflecting sunlight and the sky, and affording 360° views of the city.Unfortunately, when the glazing is central to the design, floors can get in the way of the overall effect, and the temptation is to minimise floor heights (within Building Regulation parameters, of course). This presents a significant challenge to acoustic insulation installers. In short, the thinner the floor, the harder the soundproofing material has to work acoustically and the more physical punishment it has to endure.For approximately 70% of the floors, Progressive applied a Gyvlon liquid screed at a 40mm minimum thickness. The screed was pumped from ground level, with the largest pour in excess of 80m3 covering an area of 1,680m2. In approximately 30% of the floor areas, however, the floor screeding level could not be raised because of the existing floor-level transom in the curtain walling. This meant that there were instances of screed thicknesses of approximately 25mm in places.CMS Danskin’s Regupol E48 (REGUPOL sonus curve 8) was specified, a Robust Detail approved (E-FC-6) high-performance screed isolation material. E48 (REGUPOL sonus curve 8) was perfect for those ‘thin screed’ areas, with its maximum load bearing capacity of 3000kg/m3 (30kN/m2), combined with a mean average impact sound insulation performance of 46dB and a mean average airborne sound insulation performance of 49dB, both values well in excess of the requirements of Part E of the Building Regulations.Building Regulations aside, E48’s (REGUPOL sonus curve 8) ‘over-performance’ is crucial for a hotel as exclusive as the Shangri-La. The award-winning, globe-spanning hotel group prides itself on providing a customer-focused experience, with the emphasis very much on luxury. Intrusive noise from above or below a guest’s accommodation would almost certainly undermine those efforts. Plus, with this being a flagship project for the Shangri-La – their first hotel in Europe – ‘fit for purpose’ simply wasn’t an option.As a Robust Detail underscreed, E48 (REGUPOL sonus curve 8) has already been rigorously pre-tested to ensure it achieves a minimum performance of 5dB over and above Part E, thus eliminating the need for Pre-Completion Testing. However, CMS Danskin and Progressive, having worked together successfully on the exclusive One Hyde Park development, preferred to adopt a partnership approach, with the emphasis on planning and testing, giving absolute certainty to all parties and making full use of all the skills, expertise and experience at their disposal. To this end, Paul Absolon, CMS Danskin’s Technical Director, worked closely with Progressive’s technicians, carrying out off-site simulations and fitting trials with varying screed thicknesses. Only once both parties were satisfied with every aspect of E48’s (REGUPOL sonus curve 8) acoustic performance in a ‘real world’ situation did the installation proceed.More than 16,000m2 of E48 (REGUPOL sonus curve 8) were installed over approximately 3 months, with Progressive and CMS Danskin maintaining their close working relationship throughout.Tony Cooney, Estimating Manager at Progressive Group, said, “The completion of the screed and insulation work on the Shangri La Hotel development was a fantastic achievement and it presented a number of very challenging situations – both technical and logistical. Solutions to these challenging situations are achieved by the co-operation of all parties involved – including material suppliers. The technical assistance provided by CMS Danskin on this Shangri-La project and other prestigious contracts in the London region in recent years has been exceptional and we look forward to continuing our excellent relationship.”Said Paul Absolon, “It was a privilege working on a project as ground-breaking and culturally significant as The Shard, and it was a pleasure working with the professionals at Progressive Group again. At CMS Danskin, we like to be put to the test. The Shard certainly was a challenge and we’re proud to have met that challenge and delivered.”

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