Sound insulation of fenestration systems : a comprehensive web-based simulation program and validation

Aluminum framed fenestration systems are becoming a leading choice for modern buildings. They provide a superior aesthetic appearance, a higher degree of weathering reliability, and quicker installation. At the same time, they offer more transparency and environmental efficiency. However, because of the complexity of the framing systems, the estimation of sound insulation of such systems for preliminary design or analysis becomes time-consuming and difficult. Currently, there is no efficient tool available for convenient and reliable estimation of the sound insulation performance of fenestration systems. To this end, the engineering team led by the authors conducted extensive studies on various fenestration systems consisting of different glazing and aluminum frames. Based on our research outcomes, a comprehensive web-based simulation program, the so-called Digital Acoustic Lab (DAL), has been developed recently. This program can provide a quick analysis and accurate prediction of sound insulation of window, door, and façade systems consist of various aluminum frames and glazing infills. A series of laboratory tests were conducted to validate the predictions by the DAL. The goal of this program is to provide designers, engineers, and architects an effective and economical tool to facilitate the design.