Measurements

DECIBEL offers precise and comprehensive acoustic measurement services to assess noise levels, vibrations, and reverberation in both residential and industrial environments. Our expert engineers utilise advanced equipment to deliver accurate data, helping clients make informed decisions on soundproofing, noise control, and acoustic treatments. These measurements are essential for diagnosing sound issues and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Book Your Consultation

For more information or to schedule a measurement session, please contact us via:
M: +27 73 83 88 501
office@decibel-africa.co.za

What We Do

For our wide range of acoustic and vibration diagnostics, we use specialised tools and techniques to assess noise from various sources, identify problem areas, and evaluate the effectiveness of soundproofing systems. Our team can provide the data required to develop an effective solution, whether you need a detailed analysis for residential sound control or industrial noise reduction.

Service Types

• Noise Measurements

We measure sound levels from domestic, municipal, and industrial noise sources, providing detailed spectral analysis to understand noise characteristics and origins.

• Vibration Measurements

For clients dealing with vibrations from machinery or partition elements, we assess vibration levels and the structural impact on buildings or equipment. These measurements are crucial for identifying the source and mitigating the effects.

• Reverberation Time Measurements

Reverberation time (RT60) is a critical aspect of room acoustics. We measure how long sound persists in a space, helping to optimise environments such as studios, offices, and public venues for clarity and sound quality.

• Laboratory Testing

We also perform laboratory testing of materials to determine their sound absorption and sound insulation properties according to EN ISO 354 standards.

Expected Outcomes

By using our measurement services, clients can expect:

• Precise data on sound levels, vibrations, and reverberation times.
• A detailed report that provides actionable insights to address noise or vibration issues.
• A clear understanding of how noise impacts your environment, helping to ensure compliance with noise regulations.
• Recommendations for tailored solutions based on the measured data, enabling you to implement effective noise control strategies.

Step-by-Step Process

The measurement service follows a clear, systematic process to ensure accuracy and reliability:

• Initial Consultation: We begin by discussing your noise or vibration concerns and identifying key areas to measure.
• On-Site Measurement: Our team visits your site with specialised equipment to measure sound levels, vibrations, and reverberation times.
• Data Analysis: Using advanced tools, we analyse the data to determine the source and nature of the acoustic or vibration issues.
• Reporting: We provide a detailed report of the findings, including measurements, analysis, and recommendations for action.
• Solution Development: Based on the results, we work with you to develop and implement a tailored soundproofing or vibration control plan.

Technology & Tools

We utilise state-of-the-art technology to ensure the accuracy of our measurements:

• Engineering approach: We define the key parameters—sound sources, transmission paths, and receiver points—ensuring we comprehensively understand the acoustical environment to design an effective solution.
• Frequency spectrum analyser: This tool is used to break down and measure the sound across various frequencies, helping us identify problematic frequency ranges that need treatment.
• Accelerometer/Vibrometer: Essential for measuring vibration in structures and equipment. These devices help assess how vibrations are transmitted through surfaces and materials, guiding our designs for vibration control.
• Sound source imaging camera: A cutting-edge tool that visually represents how sound waves travel through space, allowing us to identify and focus on the most problematic areas during the acoustic design process.
• Intensimeter: Used to measure sound intensity at various locations within a space, enabling us to determine how sound energy is distributed and absorbed, which is crucial for effective acoustic treatments.

Compliance & Standards

All our measurement services adhere to the following international standards:

• ISO 16283-1: Acoustics – Field measurement of sound insulation in buildings and of building elements. This standard guides us in accurately assessing airborne sound insulation between rooms.
• ISO 717-1: Rating of sound insulation in buildings and of building elements – Part 1: Airborne sound insulation. This is used to evaluate sound reduction across different building components.
• ISO 3741: Acoustics – Determination of sound power levels of noise sources using sound pressure. It provides guidance for determining sound power levels in a controlled environment, which helps in diagnosing noise levels from machinery and equipment.
• ISO 9613-1: Acoustics – Attenuation of sound during propagation outdoors. This international standard is essential when calculating how sound behaves in external environments, which is critical for industrial and outdoor projects.

Selected Case Studies

Our measurement services have helped a wide range of clients solve acoustic and vibration problems. Here are some notable examples:

Laakirchen Paper - Soundproofing Wall

Soundproofing Heat Pump Unit in Vienna

Restaurant soundproofing in San Stefano Plaza, Sofia

Book Your Consultation

For more information or to schedule a measurement session, please contact us via:
M: +27 73 83 88 501
office@decibel-africa.co.za