Australia's quietest hospital is on its way, thanks to an intelligent glazing design. Acoustic studies indicate that once complete, the new Royal Adelaide Hospital will be the most peaceful in Australia.
CSIRO scientists, working with faasade supplier Yuanda, have advised the builder, HYLC Joint Venture, using an extensive array of data. With 70,000 sqm of external windows to insulate, they ran a range of acoustic tests to find the best possible glazing options for all areas of the new hospital that will open in 2016. A range of different faasade units and window configurations were evaluated to ensure maximum noise insulation for the entire hospital.
CSIRO scientists, working with faasade supplier Yuanda, have advised the builder, HYLC Joint Venture, using an extensive array of data. With 70,000 sqm of external windows to insulate, they ran a range of acoustic tests to find the best possible glazing options for all areas of the new hospital that will open in 2016. A range of different faasade units and window configurations were evaluated to ensure maximum noise insulation for the entire hospital.
An interesting but critical soundproofing challenge is the helipad that will operate from the roof of the south west corner. While essential for patient transport, helicopters landing only 20 meters away create excessive noise of 100 dB or more. This is like being in the front row watching an ACDC concert; not ideal for a hospital patient. The CSIRO cites a wide range of documented research that shows the negative effects of noise on patient recovery. While this has been an issue for years in other hospitals, it is believed that Royal Adelaide Hospital will be the first constructed to overcome this noise concern from the outset.
So what did the CSIRO scientists recommend? Triple glazing, using very thick glass with large gaps between the glass panels to bolster acoustic insulation. Meeting the stringent noise standards required by the South Australian Government will create a comfortable haven for patients, improving the effectiveness of treatments and reducing patient recovery times.
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Magnetite Australia
Magnetite Australia is specialises in providing acoustic and thermal insulation for existing windows and doors. Our double glazing systems have been independently tested by the National Acoustic Laboratories and the Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) in line with National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) regulations.
