Sturgis Iron and Metal contacted Acoustical
Solutions, Inc initially in July 2006 to help resolve industrial noise and
site concerns stemming from the facility's close proximity to a residential
community. Sturgis was concerned with noise created by a metal shredder and
sound arising from the activity of heavy equipment. The SoundScape Wall provided
by Acoustical Solutions met the environmental and engineering demands of the
project.
The Sturgis facility is located in Elkhart, Indiana where environmental conditions
can be particularly harsh at times. Acoustical Solutions was asked to provide
a sound barrier wall that could withstand decades of freeze-thaw conditions
while remaining architecturally appealing to the surrounding neighbors. Sturgis
Iron and Metal did not want to use a standard metal or concrete wall with the
demanding conditions. In severe environmental conditions metal tends to rust
and stain while concrete cracks easily in freeze-thaw conditions. Graffiti removal
was also a concern with these types of walls. Erecting a metal or concrete sound
barrier wall requires the use of heavy machinery, another cause of apprehension
at Sturgis.
Acoustical Solutions recommended the SoundScape Wall System to meet the Sturgis
Iron and Metal project requirements. The SoundScape Wall is designed to be a
"hyper construction" sound wall (includes advanced focus and automatic
capability on a single project). It is lightweight and requires no heavy craning.
Many consultants, engineers and architects now demand advanced technology and
materials in the construction of sound barrier walls. New materials are being
sought out that virtually eliminate any maintenance after the acoustical wall
has been installed. Unlike conventional sound wall systems, SoundScape Walls
are extremely low maintenance.
Sturgis Iron and Metal's engineering demands were also met with the SoundScape
Wall. The sound barrier wall needed to incorporate two gates to allow access
by tractor-trailers and rail cars. Sturgis also requested the ability to retrofit
the sound wall to raise its height for future sight growth. The SoundScape Wall
system can be easily modified in the field to meet expansion demands.
The Sturgis Iron and Metal sound barrier wall was completed in January 2007,
making the industrial site a quieter neighbor for the residential communities
nearby. Acoustical Solutions offers several advanced sound wall systems that
are built for demanding hyper construction.