LOW, our new table top construction, designed for improved sound levels
With our latest innovation, LOW, we introduce a groundbreaking alternative to traditional table tops that reduces the sound level by 50%. By building on our proven basic idea with a plywood core, which already has a number of advantageous properties, and adding a layer of cork, we have created an exceptional alternative for environments where noise reduction is crucial.
The unique construction with a plywood core enables us to implement the LOW technology on all tables in our product range.
Sectional view of sound-absorbing table top "Low".
How did we test?
Our investigation involved a direct comparison between a Sarek table with a standard table top and a Sarek table equipped with the sound-absorbing LOW top. We chose to use high-pressure laminate as the starting material, known for its minimal sound-absorbing ability.
The tests were conducted by the research institute RI.SE and the results were analyzed by experts at Akustikverkstan. This comprehensive methodology resulted in a detailed understanding of the sound levels in dB and dBA, and confirmed that our LOW technology effectively halves the perceived sound at the table.
The difference between dB and dBA
While dB measures the total intensity of sound, dBA takes into account how humans perceive sound by weighting different frequencies. This difference makes dBA a more effective tool for assessing the sound environment in workplaces and everyday life. Reducing the sound level by only 8-10 dB leads to a noticeable halving of the sound volume, emphasizing the importance of even small improvements in the sound environment.
Results
The analysis from Akustikverkstan shows that our new table top construction actually results in a significant halving of the perceived sound that occurs in the room. A difference that can be crucial for the sound environment in a large room like a lunch hall.
| Type of top | dB | dBA |
|---|---|---|
| Standard with high-pressure laminate | 100 dB | 106.8 dBA |
| Sound-absorbing top, "Low", with high-pressure laminate | 90 dB | 98.9 dBA |
OTHER REGARDING SOUND AT TABLES
Wood as a material has a vibration-damping property and reduces sound in wooden furniture compared to furniture made of, for example, metal.
The role of chairs
Reducing the impact sound on a chair is crucial for how the sound is perceived at a table. The chair's feet should be adapted to the floor to effectively counteract the impact sound. To reduce reverberation and echo in a wooden chair, a sound-absorbing can be mounted directly on the underside of the seat, which becomes sound-absorbing for the sound that bounces off the floor and also vibration-damping in the construction of the chair. To use the chair to absorb sound in the room when no one is sitting on it, the chair needs to be upholstered.
