PRANCE metalwork is a leading manufacturer of metal ceiling and facade systems.
What Are the Acoustic Benefits of Perforated Metal Screen Walls?
Perforated metal screen walls made from aluminum can significantly enhance acoustic comfort in buildings by attenuating noise and improving speech intelligibility. When backed with sound-absorbing infill materials—such as mineral wool or acoustic foam—perforated panels create resonant cavities that trap and dissipate sound energy. The performance depends on perforation parameters: hole diameter, open area ratio, and panel thickness. Common configurations use 1 mm to 5 mm holes at 10%–30% open area for mid-frequency absorption (500 Hz–2 kHz), ideal for office partitions, auditoriums, and transit hubs.
Designers can fine-tune absorption coefficients by adjusting the cavity depth between the perforated screen and infill board—typically 20 mm to 100 mm—to target low-frequency reverberation. The screen’s thickness (0.8 mm to 2.0 mm) maintains structural rigidity while allowing sound to pass. Aluminum’s natural stiffness ensures dimensional stability, even in humid or temperature-variable environments.
Installation involves mounting perforated panels on an aluminum substructure, with acoustic wool or acoustic board fixed behind. Joints between panels should be sealed with acoustic sealant to prevent flanking paths. A powder-coated or anodized finish maintains aesthetic appeal and resists corrosion. The result is a visually striking façade that moderates ambient noise, enhances occupant comfort, and contributes to LEED credits for acoustic performance and material sustainability.