Sound is everywhere. Some sounds can be soothing. Some sounds can elicit happiness, joy or excitement. Many do not. When sound becomes unwanted, intrusive or excessive, we call it "noise". Frequently underestimated, exposure to too much noise often leads to irritability, loss of productivity, inability to concentrate, and even hearing loss.

How the human ear works: Sound waves travel to the inner ear, where they vibrate tiny hair cells and are converted into electrical impulses. Nerve impulses are carried from the hair cells to the brain, where they are interpreted as sound.

Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) occurs when hair cells are damaged, either through one-time exposure to loud noise, or by repeated exposure to noise at various loudness levels over an extended period of time. Hearing loss can occur at 85 dB, sometimes even as low as 75 dB (a vacuum cleaner, at 3 ft. away, is about 80 dB; a motorcycle, at the curb, is about 90 dB). Noise levels of 140 dB will cause pain in the ear. Even very short exposure to extremely loud noise can cause permanent and irreparable hearing loss.

Noise travels in waves. When a sound wave encounters a solid object, it can bounce back and form an echo. This effect is called "reverberation" (dolphins and bats use reverberation to find their way in the dark). Unfortunately, reverberation often markedly exacerbates an already noisy environment.

The best way to reduce noise is to simply stop the source, or turn down the volume. Practically speaking however, this is often very difficult or even impossible to do. At Noise Suppression Technologies, Inc., we tackle the problem of unwanted noise by offering custom manufactured sound proofing products to absorb and block noise. The use of an acoustic barrier is often an adequate noise control solution to contain unwanted noise. Because of the effects of reverberation, however, an acoustic barrier alone, may not be enough. In fact, in certain noise applications, the use of sound proofing barrier can actually increase reverberation problems. In these instances, the addition of an absorber material is imperative to sound proofing and controlling noise. And, in many noise control applications, the use of an absorber alone offers an effective solution.

With so many choices available, how does one choose the most effective sound proofing solution? At Noise Suppression Technologies, acoustic engineers and consultants are available to offer advice and to custom-engineer a sound proofing solution to each individual noise application. Although this individualized approach may sound costly, it usually proves to be the most economical. If you have an existing noise problem, our acoustic experts can offer the best sound proofing solution. If you are getting ready to construct a new home or building, our acoustic experts can help you prevent a noise problem. At Noise Suppression Technologies, Inc, you'll find sound advice, sound innovation, sound solutions.

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