The Vita Group, one of Europe’s leading providers of flexible polyurethane (PU) foam, has enhanced its R&D capabilities with the introduction of advanced acoustic testing technology.
Middleton-based Vitec, part of The Vita Group, has invested in the installation of an Alpha cabin, which provides in-depth data on the acoustic insulation- and noise-absorption properties of foam products. This will help Vita further formulate materials and composites with optimum noise reduction levels for end-users in a range of market sectors.
Vitec can now conduct innovative, high-end audio testing within its own research department. This allows the R&D team to test more batches and to react to customer demands or in-house R&D breakthroughs at a faster rate.
Understanding the acoustic properties of foam is vital for a number of applications, says Vita, including making cars and planes relaxing environments, reducing noise transfer between multi-occupancy residences and achieving a high level of sound quality in cinemas and other auditoriums. Knowing how sounds travels through foam also helps minimise disturbances from noisy appliances such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning units as well as lowering potential hearing damage risks in loud industrial spaces by quietening heavy machinery and equipment.
Thanks to investments such as the Alpha cabin and the expertise of the Middleton Innovation Centre, Vita’s team can tailor foam solutions to absorb specific frequencies. This means that if a particular nuisance frequency is known then the foam can be adjusted to best meet the challenge at hand.
Stuart Roby, technical and flooring division MD at The Vita Group (pictured), says: “Having the Alpha cabin at our Middleton innovation centre is an exciting development. It opens up a number of opportunities for our research into noise-tackling foam solutions. There is a demand for noise-reduction systems of this kind, with everyone from data centres to manufacturing hubs and theatres all eager to find out how they can solve tricky sound-related issues. Whether it is data centres, manufacturing hubs or theatres, we can now support all our customers’ needs to solve tricky sound-related issues.
“Our ability to quickly turn around state-of-the-art tests and then use this information to tailor foams for specific situations has streamlined the research process, making us the ideal partner for companies that want to find out how foam can solve their acoustic challenges and concerns.”
