PRANCE metalwork is a leading manufacturer of metal ceiling and facade systems.
The Benefits of Clip In Ceiling Tiles in Reducing Noise and Improving Acoustics
Noise is one of the most significant challenges in modern educational and commercial environments. Classrooms filled with chatter, offices buzzing with activity, and conference rooms hosting video calls all demand acoustic environments that support clarity and focus. Poor acoustics can reduce speech intelligibility by up to 30%, directly impacting learning outcomes and productivity.
Clip-in ceiling tiles have become a proven solution. Manufactured primarily from aluminium and steel, these systems deliver superior acoustic control while ensuring fire resistance and long-term durability. With Noise Reduction Coefficients (NRC) ≥0.75, Sound Transmission Class (STC) ≥40, fire resistance of 60–120 minutes, and service life of 20–30 years, they are the optimal choice for institutions seeking effective noise management.
This blog explores the acoustic benefits of clip-in ceiling tiles, supported by performance data, case studies, and global standards.
Acoustic Science of Clip In Ceiling Tiles
1. NRC and STC Explained
- NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient): Measures sound absorption. Aluminium perforated clip-in tiles with acoustic fleece achieve NRC 0.78–0.82.
- STC (Sound Transmission Class): Measures sound blocking. Steel clip-in tiles with insulation achieve STC ≥40.
2. Why Clip In Tiles Excel
Unlike exposed grid systems, clip-in designs form continuous surfaces with concealed joints, minimizing sound leakage.
Aluminium Clip In Tiles for Acoustics
1. Features
- NRC 0.78–0.82 with mineral wool backing.
- Lightweight and corrosion-resistant.
- Custom perforation patterns for tuning acoustic performance.
2. Case Study: Amman School of Languages
PRANCE aluminium clip-in tiles reduced classroom reverberation from 1.2 to 0.6 seconds, increasing speech intelligibility by 25%.
Steel Clip In Tiles for Acoustics
1. Features
- NRC 0.75–0.80.
- STC ≥40 with acoustic insulation.
- Superior in environments requiring both fire safety and acoustic clarity.
2. Case Study: Dushanbe Conference Hall
Armstrong steel clip-in tiles achieved NRC 0.77 and STC 42, supporting high-quality video conferencing.
Comparative Analysis
|
Material |
NRC |
STC |
Fire Resistance |
Service Life |
|
Aluminium Clip-In |
0.78–0.82 |
38–40 |
60–90 min |
25–30 yrs |
|
Steel Clip-In |
0.75–0.80 |
≥40 |
90–120 min |
20–25 yrs |
|
Gypsum |
≤0.55 |
≤30 |
30–60 min |
10–12 yrs |
|
PVC |
≤0.50 |
≤28 |
20–40 min |
7–10 yrs |
Reducing Reverberation
Clip-in perforated designs, when combined with acoustic fleece, significantly reduce reverberation times. In classrooms, optimal reverberation is ≤0.6 seconds.
Case Study: Panjakent International School
Ecophon aluminium clip-in ceilings reduced reverberation from 1.0 to 0.58 seconds, improving student focus during lectures.
Enhancing Speech Privacy
In offices and conference rooms, speech privacy is vital. Steel clip-in tiles with mineral infill provide STC ≥40, ensuring conversations are not overheard in adjacent spaces.
Case Study: Khujand Office Complex
SAS International steel clip-in tiles reduced cross-room speech transmission by 35%.
Performance Over Time
|
Material |
NRC After Install |
NRC After 10 Years (Maintained) |
NRC After 10 Years (Unmaintained) |
|
Aluminium |
0.82 |
0.79 |
0.70 |
|
Steel |
0.80 |
0.77 |
0.68 |
|
Gypsum |
0.55 |
0.45 |
0.35 |
|
PVC |
0.50 |
0.40 |
0.30 |
Fire Safety and Acoustics
Acoustic performance must never compromise fire safety. Clip-in aluminium and steel tiles balance both:
- Aluminium: 60–90 minutes fire resistance.
- Steel: 90–120 minutes fire resistance.
Case Study: Sohar Training Center
Hybrid aluminium-steel clip-in tiles provided NRC 0.80 and 90-minute fire rating simultaneously.
Sustainability and Acoustics
Modern acoustic clip-in tiles integrate ≥70% recycled aluminium or ≥60% recycled steel, maintaining NRC ≥0.78 while supporting green building certifications.
Case Study: Green School Project, Jordan
USG Boral aluminium clip-in tiles reduced carbon footprint by 20% while achieving NRC 0.81.
Standards and Compliance
- ASTM C423: NRC measurement.
- ASTM E336: STC testing.
- ASTM E119 / EN 13501: Fire safety compliance.
- ISO 3382: Classroom acoustics standards.
- ISO 14001: Environmental sustainability.
The Role of PRANCE
PRANCE manufactures aluminium clip-in ceiling tiles engineered for acoustic performance in schools, offices, and conference rooms. Their systems deliver NRC ≥0.75, STC ≥40, fire resistance 60–90 minutes, and service life of 25–30 years, making them ideal for spaces demanding clear communication and long-term durability. Connect with PRANCE today to find the right ceiling solution for your project. Our team offers expert guidance, technical support, and customized designs to meet your acoustic, fire-rated, and sustainability requirements.
FAQs
1. How do clip-in ceiling tiles improve classroom learning?
By reducing reverberation and echo, they increase speech intelligibility and focus.
2. Are steel or aluminium better for conference rooms?
Steel offers stronger fire safety and speech privacy, while aluminium excels in acoustic absorption.
3. Can clip-in acoustic tiles be customized?
Yes, perforation patterns and fleece density can be tailored for specific NRC targets.
4. How long do acoustic benefits last?
With maintenance, NRC ≥0.78 is preserved for 20–30 years.
5. Do gypsum or PVC tiles offer similar performance?
No, their NRC rarely exceeds 0.55, making them unsuitable for demanding acoustic environments.