Temporary noise barriers

Types of Temporary Noise Barriers

A temporary noise barrier is a wall or barrier erected to block sound from traveling to a specific area. There are different types of temporary noise barriers, including the following:

• Absorptive barriers

  The absorptive barrier is a type of temporary noise barrier that absorbs sound waves rather than reflecting them. The materials used to construct the barrier have high noise-absorbing capabilities. Some of the materials used to make absorptive barriers include fiberglass and foam. The temporary construction noise barriers are effective in areas with low to medium noise levels. They help reduce the noise pollution level in the environment, making the area more serene.

• Reflective barriers

  Reflective barriers are temporary barriers that redirect sound away from the other side. They are made from hard materials with high sound-reflecting capabilities, such as concrete, metal, and wood. The reflective barriers are effective in high-traffic areas where redirecting sound is more effective than absorption.

• Combination barriers

  Combination barriers are mixed temporary noise barriers. They are constructed with both absorptive and reflective materials. The barriers offer sound absorption and reflection, making them versatile. Combination barriers are effective in different environments as they can be designed to be more absorptive or reflective, depending on the need.

• Solid barriers

  Solid barriers are constructed from continuous materials without any openings. The wall acts as a wall, blocking and reducing sound transmission. The solid barriers are effective in construction sites and highways with high noise levels.

• Scissor barriers

  The scissor barriers are unique as they have a movable frame that resembles scissors. They are usually made from metal and have two long arms connected by a pivot. The temporary barriers can be opened and closed to fit different sizes and shapes. The design also helps create a barrier that can withstand high winds while still being used to block noise in construction sites.

Features and functions of temporary noise barriers

Temporary noise barriers are essential for construction sites and other areas where noise must be controlled. They offer a variety of features designed to provide effective noise reduction, easy installation, and portability. Here are some key elements and functions of temporary noise barriers:

• Sound Insulation

  The primary purpose of temporary noise barriers is to reduce noise levels. They are constructed using materials with high mass, such as vinyl or specially engineered acoustic panels. These materials help to block and absorb sound waves, reducing the amount of noise that passes through to the other side.

• Sound Absorbing Materials

  Besides high-mass materials, temporary noise barriers also incorporate sound-absorbing materials. Fiberglass or foam is utilized in the barriers to reduce echo and reverberation, particularly in areas where the barriers are set up.

• Height and Density

  Temporary construction noise barriers are usually tall and dense. The height helps to deflect sound waves above the barrier, while density ensures effective sound blocking. Some barriers may have multiple layers to increase their mass and improve sound insulation.

• Portability

  Most temporary noise barriers are designed to be portable. They are usually lightweight and can be easily assembled and disassembled. This allows them to be moved to different locations as required. For enhanced portability, these barriers come with wheels and handles.

• Easy Installation

  Temporary noise barriers are designed to be installed quickly and easily without the need for specialized skills or tools. They feature interlocking panels or simple mounting hardware that allows for noise barrier construction in a few minutes.

• Weather Resistance

  The barriers are crafted with materials that can withstand different weather conditions. They are waterproof and UV-resistant, ensuring they maintain functionality even in extreme temperatures.

• Modularity

  Temporary noise barriers often have a modular design. This means they consist of panels or sections that can be easily connected or disconnected to adjust the length and shape of the barrier according to specific needs.

• Privacy

  Besides reducing noise, temporary barriers can provide a level of visual privacy. Their height and density obstruct views, making them useful in areas where noise and privacy are required.

Scenarios of temporary noise barriers

Temporary noise barriers are used in a number of industries and applications. This includes;

• Construction sites:

  Construction sites are one of the main users of temporary noise barriers. Construction sites put up these barriers to reduce noise complaints from local residents and businesses. They erect the barriers to comply with local noise regulations. Temporary noise barriers are also used to protect the hearing of workers on the construction site. They provide a safer and quieter working environment for construction workers.

• Road and highway projects:

  Road and highway construction projects use temporary noise barriers to minimize noise pollution. They do this by shielding nearby homes, schools, and hospitals from construction noise. They help ensure that the project is completed with minimal disruption to the local community.

• Industrial facilities:

  Many industrial facilities use temporary noise barriers to reduce noise levels on their sites. This is especially common in places like factories, power plants, and manufacturing plants. The barriers help contain noise within the site and prevent it from spilling over into nearby areas.

• Public events:

  Public events like concerts, festivals, and sports events use temporary noise barriers. They help minimize noise impact on nearby areas. Event organizers set up the barriers to shield nearby residents from loud sounds and music.

• Landfills and waste management sites:

  Temporary noise barriers are used in waste management sites and landfills. They help reduce noise from activities like waste dumping, heavy machinery, and truck traffic. This is done to lessen the impact on nearby properties and communities.

• Emergency and temporary situations:

  Temporary noise barriers are used in emergency situations like building collapses or gas leaks. They help contain and minimize noise in these scenarios. They are also used in temporary situations like road work or utility maintenance.

How to choose temporary noise barriers

When choosing a temporary noise barrier, it's advisable to consider a few factors to ensure the right choice is made. This includes:

• Project type

  It's vital to assess the type of project first. Some noise barriers are more suitable for specific projects than others. For example, if the project involves construction, a barrier designed specifically for construction noise would be ideal. These barriers are usually easy to install and move.

• Location

  The location is another factor to consider when choosing a temporary noise barrier. Different locations have different regulations regarding noise levels. Therefore, it's important to check the local regulations in the specific location before making a choice. Doing this will ensure the chosen barrier meets the required standards and is compliant with local regulations.

• Material

  Temporary noise barriers are made of different materials. These materials usually have different levels of soundproofing capabilities. For instance, vinyl is a common material used to make temporary noise barriers. It's usually preferred because it's lightweight, portable, and offers decent sound reduction. On the other hand, mass loaded vinyl is heavy and contains additives that increase its mass. This results in better sound insulation. It's important to consider the material of the temporary noise barrier to ensure it provides the desired level of sound reduction.

• Size and height

  The size and height of the noise barrier play a significant role in determining its effectiveness. Larger barriers usually block more sound waves, while taller barriers can deflect sound waves above the source. It's important to consider these factors to ensure the barrier meets the project's specific needs and requirements.

• Transparency

  For those who value natural light and views over sound reduction, choosing a transparent noise barrier is a great option. Transparent barriers allow light to pass through, making spaces feel more open and airy. They also maintain visibility, which can be important in certain settings. However, it's worth noting that while these barriers effectively reduce noise, they may not offer the same level of soundproofing as opaque ones.

temporary noise barriers Q&A

Q1: What are the requirements for temporary noise barriers?

A1: There are no specific requirements for temporary noise barriers. However, the noise barrier should be as long as the source of the noise. Also, it should be 5 dB higher than the source of the noise. Moreover, it should be solid, continuous, and tightly sealed.

Q2: What are the challenges of temporary noise barriers?

A2: One of the challenges is wind. If the wind is too high, it can cause the noise barrier to fall. Also, severe weather conditions can damage the noise barrier. Transporting and installing the noise barrier on-site can also be challenging.

Q3: How to maintain temporary noise barriers?

A3: Inspect the noise barriers regularly to ensure they are in good condition. Clean the barriers if they become dirty or stained. And replace any damaged or worn-out parts.

Q4: Do temporary noise barriers work in preventing noise?

A4: Yes, they work. The barriers reflect and absorb the sound waves, reducing the amount of noise that reaches the other side.

Q5: How does one choose the right material for a temporary noise barrier?

A5: Consider factors like durability, weather conditions, noise reduction, and budget. Look for high-quality materials within the budget that can withstand the weather conditions and effectively reduce noise.