Acoustic Movable Partitions and their role in Schools

Movable Partitions in schools promote flexible learning spaces in the classrooms and beyond, creating an enhanced learning experience for the 21^st Century. An important feature of flexible learning space is that it is of sufficient size to accommodate a range of different learning activities and can be easily configured or adapted to suit the activities taking place.

With Movable Partitions space can immediately be minimised to accommodate smaller groups. Whilst increasing the size means that the space can be occupied by more than one teacher, allowing for a collaborative learning environment.

For an added sense of openness there is the option of Glazed Movable Partitions allowing natural sunlight to flood in. From a holistic approach the environment is an important tool to increase the student experience.  Therefore, consideration must be given about the function of the space.

The most common type of partition is the Acoustic Movable Wall. The operator lines up each panel adjacent to the other locking the seals into place. Acoustic insulation of up to 58dB noise reduction is achieved with a combination of acoustic infill’s and operable top and bottom seals. Individual panels can be constructed with either manual or semi automatic retractable top and bottom seal. Panels are available curved or with inset pass doors and glazed cut outs

The Sliding Folding Partition utilises two hinged panels that are moved in pairs and straightened when in place. The system incorporates a series of flat panels (each up to 900mm wide) that are hinged together to give a flush appearance when closed. They are quick to operate and available in a range of acoustic ratings from 30dB – 49dB which is achieved with a combination of acoustic infills.

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The writings on the wall for open plan offices!

The writings on the wall for open plan offices! 

Efficiency in the workplace isn't about how much space you have its about using space to create a seamless workflow for people, being able to manipulate your surroundings. Movable partitions allow multiple activities to happen in close proximity to one another, accommodating different settings that support different activities. So how will the landscape change to accommodate the next generation of work-space?

The next generation work-space is where flexibility and adaptability continues to be important but where workers can manipulate their surrounding and express their creativity. The Whiteboard Movable Wall appeals to the anarchist within each of us unleashing our creativeness,  a connection of words and pictures to effectively communicate

"Walls are for writing on".  Movable walls which double up as whiteboards can be written on from floor to ceiling and are increasingly becoming part of the corporate space design, fostering creativity and collaboration. What starts off a movable wall can easily be transformed into a space for brainstorming sessions, bringing ideas to life and creating a sense of community in the office, there are basically no constraints.


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Choosing the correct Acoustic Partition

Acoustic partitions allow schools, hotels, meeting rooms and other facilities to divide and expand rooms to meet their ever changing requirements. Specifying them into the building design not only allows the owner to provide privacy, but also maximises a facility's use by enabling the hosting of simultaneous events. Choosing an Acoustic Partition isn't always an easy task. So how do you choose the correct partition for your facility?

Question No. 1: Do I require a movable wall or a sliding folding partition
This decision should be based on the sound rating you are looking to achieve, the amount of times you plan to reconfigure the space, the budgetary requirements, and the function of the room. Sliding folding partitions provide a quick and effective sound division, and have a lower cost than movable walls.  However, movable walls are more durable and provide better sound separation between meeting areas.

Question No. 2: Should I get single or paired panel partitions? Manual or electric?
Single-panel partitions offer the greatest versatility for space-division needs. For large openings and storage in remote pockets, and in complex partition layouts, the single panel is the partition of choice. Paired panels, or panels hinged together, are the easiest manually operated partition to use. Generally available in top-supported or floor-supported configurations, the centre-hung paired panels are perfect for straight-line openings and offer quick, easy set-up. For simple operation in straight-line openings, the electrically operated partition divides the space with the turn of a key.

Question No. 3: How do I control sound with Acoustic Partitions?
Acoustical control is a critical factor in virtually every type of environment. Excellent sound control can be achieved with the right panel system. Taking into consideration the entire room environment is the most important step in the process. Things to consider include flooring, wallcoverings, furniture, windows, and any other large objects that will influence the absorption or reflection of sound. In addition, ask the partition manufacturer about the bottom seal's interaction with flooring, the design of the top seal, or the header area above the panel. These factors impact sound's ability to bypass the panel.

Question No. 4: What is the advantage of the automatic seal over the manual seal?
Seal choices are based on both the panel configuration and the situations of the room. To make a choice, consider how often you will reconfigure and who will reconfigure. If you have a single-panel system that requires frequent set-ups, an automatic seal may be right for you. Manual seals work well in paired configurations as well as single-panel runs, which are not reconfigured often.

When choosing an acoustic partition, carefully consider the many options available. You can then choose the product and configuration appropriate for your unique application.