What acoustic design possibilities can be achieved using metal panels for walls

Metal panels are an effective component of acoustic design when combined with engineered cavity fills and absorptive liners. Perforated metal faces allow sound to pass into an absorptive substrate — typically mineral wool or acoustic foam — contained behind a perforated panel and sealed with an acoustically transparent vapor barrier. By varying perforation size, open area percentage, and cavity depth, designers can tune mid- and high-frequency absorption to meet room acoustic targets for lecture halls, auditoria, transit hubs, and open-plan offices. Slot perforations and patterned arrays offer both acoustic performance and visual interest, and colored or textured backings can enhance contrast behind perforations. For situations requiring fire-rated assemblies, mineral wool linings and tested construction details achieve both acoustic and fire performance. Metal panels also work as part of hybrid systems where absorption, diffusion, and masking strategies are combined to achieve balanced acoustic outcomes. For retrofit acoustical improvements, panels provide minimal thickness impact and preserve interior space. Acoustic test data, recommended cavity thicknesses, and tested assemblies should be requested from the manufacturer to align performance with design goals. Technical guidance and tested acoustic assemblies are available at https://prancedesign.com/benefits-of-building-with-metal-panels-for-walls/.