Acoustic louvres effectively reduce noise transmissions generated by data centres, helping facilitate cohabitation in the urban environment.
As we have covered in previous articles, the worldwide growth of data centres is accelerating rapidly and this expansion isn’t slowing down any time soon, particularly in light of the increasing use of AI.
One issue commonly experienced by data centre architects is designing a facility that is a 'good neighbour' within its surrounding urban landscape. Being a 'good neighbour' essentially means designing a data centre that blends into its environment, causes minimal disruption, and balances aesthetics with practicality. After all, proposing a large, noisy concrete structure in a city centre is unlikely to secure planning approval.
One powerful solution for ensuring a neighbourly design is acoustic louvres.
Acoustic louvres are specially designed ventilation systems that incorporate sound-absorbing materials and unique blade profiles to reduce noise transmission. Unlike standard louvres, which primarily focus on airflow and weather protection, acoustic louvres are engineered to reduce the passage of sound waves.
Acoustic louvres typically incorporate materials like mineral wool, fibreglass, or acoustic foam within the louvre blades or surrounding structure. The shape, angle, and spacing of the louvre blades are carefully designed to disrupt and deflect sound waves.
These features make acoustic louvres ideal for use in industrial facilities such as data centres, as they can effectively reduce noise transmissions generated by HVAC systems and mechanical equipment in plant rooms. Also, acoustic louvres can be coated to match the aesthetic design of your data centre and provide an attractive architectural statement.
By understanding how acoustic louvres work and their extensive benefits, you can specify the right system that will effectively mitigate noise pollution and help ensure your data centre is a 'good neighbour'. To learn more on this topic and find out about Maple’s acoustic louvre system, contact one of our experts today.