Fully Anechoic Chambers for Precision Acoustic Testing

The non-combustible construction supports safe, maintenance-free operation and a long service life of up to 25 years when properly installed and maintained. Metadyne® LF metal-faced absorber wedges provide broadband sound absorption with enhanced low-frequency performance down to 30–50 Hz. Their hybrid design, enclosed in durable perforated metal casings, provides long-term dimensional stability and reliable acoustic performance. Customers can choose any RAL color for their Metadyne® wedges, which feature an easy-to-clean surface.

Absorption coefficient data measured in accordance with ISO 10534-1 supports the design of acoustic test facilities intended to meet ISO 3745 free-field qualification requirements. As a result, Metadyne® LF absorber systems support reliable and repeatable acoustic measurement environments for advanced testing, certification, and research applications.

A fully anechoic chamber (FAC) is constructed as a modular acoustic enclosure utilizing self-supporting steel assemblies and STC-rated acoustic panels to create a room-within-a-room system that minimizes external noise transmission.

Compared with traditional concrete or masonry construction, this modular self-supporting design offers significant advantages, including reduced absorber wedge depth requirements and greater installation flexibility. The modular architecture also enables future expansion, modernization, reconfiguration, relocation, or complete facility transfer while preserving the FAC's qualified acoustic performance. This approach provides long-term operational flexibility and protects the owner's investment throughout the facility's lifecycle.

A fully anechoic chamber (FAC) requires specialized engineering solutions because test objects must be introduced into the chamber without compromising the continuity of the sound-absorbing wedge lining. To achieve this, acoustic doors, gates, and access systems are specifically engineered and integrated into the FAC structure, with door frames and closures designed to match the geometry and depth of the absorber wedges.

FAC acoustic doors, acoustic gates, wedge basket doors, equipment openings, and service penetrations must provide not only the required level of sound isolation but also safe and convenient access for personnel and test equipment. These systems are designed to accommodate a wide range of specimen sizes, weights, and handling requirements while preserving the chamber's acoustic performance. Their robust construction supports operational reliability, safety, and ease of use throughout the facility's service life.

Achieving the low background noise levels required for accurate acoustic measurements inside a fully anechoic chamber (FAC) is just as critical as providing free-field conditions and minimizing unwanted sound reflections. As the noise levels of test specimens continue to decrease, maintaining a sufficiently low background noise level becomes increasingly challenging, particularly when testing requires significant air exchange rates and extended operating periods.

Reliable HVAC noise control solutions are therefore an essential component of a high-performance anechoic chamber. IAC's engineered ventilation and environmental control systems are specifically designed to provide the required airflow, temperature stability, and occupant comfort while maintaining the chamber's acoustic performance. With IAC's HVAC noise control solutions, you can focus on your measurements with confidence while protecting the integrity of the acoustic test environment.

To maintain true free-field conditions, fully anechoic chambers utilize specially engineered tensioned cable or grating floor systems. These non-reflective structures provide safe access for personnel and test equipment while preserving the acoustic treatment beneath the measurement area and can be tailored to project-specific loading and access requirements.