Are Acoustic Blankets Worth Considering For Commercial Noise Control?

Noise is an unavoidable by-product of many industrial and commercial environments. Whether it’s machinery in manufacturing plants, ventilation systems in commercial spaces, or equipment in warehouses, managing noise levels is essential for the comfort, safety, and productivity of employees. One popular solution for industrial noise control is the use of acoustic blankets.

But are these blankets worth the investment for commercial use? Let’s explore how they work and the benefits they bring to your business.

What Are Acoustic Blankets?

Acoustic blankets are a versatile noise control solution, typically used as a  covering for equipment and machinery to reduce emitted sound. They are an ideal choice for environments where noise control solutions are required, but where permanent fixtures like acoustic screens or enclosures may not be suitable.

At Wakefield Acoustics, we supply  acoustic blankets designed to offer flexibility and convenience. These soundproof blankets are lightweight, easy to install and remove, and can be fitted with velcro strips or eyelets for to allow the formation of full acoustic jackets.

How Do Acoustic Blankets Work?

Acoustic blankets are typically made up of a mass barrier core and acoustically absorbent insulation, all encased in a flexible, PVC-coated polyester sheet. This construction ensures that the blanket is both durable and effective at reducing noise levels.

When wrapped around machinery, acoustic blankets provide noise reduction through the mass loaded barrier, and absorbent inner layer providing absorption, making them an ideal solution for industrial noise control in areas where noise levels need to be reduced, but not entirely eliminated. They offer a more flexible alternative to fixed acoustic enclosures, as they are lightweight and can be easily adjusted or relocated. However, acoustic blankets for soundproofing generally provide a lower level of noise reduction compared to more permanent solutions like acoustic plant screens or enclosures.

This makes them an excellent choice for applications where minimal noise reduction is needed, such as around equipment like pumps, compressors, and fan casings in industrial workspaces. In industries like manufacturing, construction, and water treatment, acoustic blankets provide a cost-effective solution to help control noise without extensive installation work.

Benefits of Acoustic Blankets for Commercial Use

1. Flexibility and Convenience

One of the standout advantages of acoustic blankets is their flexibility. Unlike rigid soundproofing solutions, acoustic blankets are lightweight and portable, allowing them to be moved or adjusted as needed. This is especially useful in oil and gas and petrochemical industries where access to machinery and equipment needs to be maintained without compromising noise control.

The ability to easily remove and reattach the blankets means that businesses can quickly adapt to changing noise control requirements. This flexibility also makes them ideal for environments where noise control solutions are needed temporarily.

2. Cost-Effective Solution

When compared to more permanent noise control solutions, acoustic blankets provide a much more affordable and accessible option. They offer a lower upfront cost while still delivering effective sound reduction in many industrial applications. For businesses looking to comply with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations in the UK, acoustic blankets are a great alternative.

Their lightweight design makes them easy to install and remove, reducing the need for complex or expensive installations, which is particularly important for businesses with budget constraints or limited space.

3. Easy to Install and Maintain

Acoustic blankets are straightforward to install and require minimal maintenance. Their simple attachment mechanisms, such as Velcro strips or eyelets, allow for quick setup and adjustments. This ease of use can save businesses time and reduce operational downtime during installation.

4. Customisable for Specific Applications

Each industrial application has unique noise control needs, and acoustic blankets offer a customisable solution. They can be tailored to wrap around machinery with complex shapes, such as pumps, fans, or large pieces of equipment, making them particularly useful when noise comes from a variety of sources with different shapes and sizes.

For more complex applications, acoustic blankets can be combined with other noise control products such as acoustic enclosures to create a  comprehensive solution for larger-scale noise issues.

5. Improved Compliance with Noise Regulations

As businesses are required to comply with the control of noise at work regulations to ensure a safe and productive environment, acoustic blankets help businesses stay compliant. By using acoustic blankets, companies can also help to meet the required noise reduction levels set by local authorities.

In summary, acoustic blankets are a versatile, cost-effective, and flexible solution for businesses looking to manage noise in commercial and industrial settings. Whether used for temporary or long-term applications, they provide an effective method for reducing noise from machinery, meeting noise control regulations, and improving workplace comfort.

At Wakefield Acoustics, we offer a wide range of industrial noise control solutions and services designed to meet the specific needs of your business. From acoustic consultancy services to installation services, we provide tailored solutions to help you manage industrial noise and maintain a safe and productive environment.

If you’re looking for an effective, affordable solution to manage industrial noise, contact us today.