ASTM C423 ABSORPTION testing

We perform  ASTM C423 testing on materials as diverse as ceiling tiles and moss. We test everything from PET panels to microperforated wood. We would love to hear what you need to test.

Test methods for sound absorption seek to quantify how a specimen calms or deadens acoustics in a space. A commonly used method of testing absorption, ASTM C423, is conducted on a test specimen installed in a reverberation chamber. A high-powered sound source creates a loud noise, which produces an interrupted random noise stream in the reverberant chamber, and we measure the decay rate of the highly-diffuse sound with and without the absorptive test specimen. ASTM C423 requires that test specimens be 72 sq ft (or a minimum of 64 sq ft). We express results as the Sound Absorption Average (SAA) or Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) and 1/3 octave absorption coefficients or in square meters of absorption. This testing is typically used on ceiling tiles, absorption panels, and acoustic treatments and can also test objects such as office furniture and theater seating.

You provide the testing goals and we devise an efficient test plan and cost proposal. Your goals may be to comply with a regulatory standard, find a marketing advantage over a competitor, or investigate a product based on customer inquiries. At the lab, our staff will help determine the correct mounting style and install your products in the test chamber ; all you need to do is observe. You are encouraged to witness the testing of your products so that you can enjoy the added benefit of consulting directly with our seasoned acoustical experts. You will have plenty of opportunities to take photos and ask questions. The results are shared in real-time as we complete tests, providing insight into your products and allowing for R&D adjustments on subsequent tests. You will receive a test summary detailing all the results of the test. Data is further analyzed, and if requested, a formal, accredited test report is generated. 

Every test has unique characteristics, so managing cost means managing time and materials. Variables include which test standard and equipment to use, mounting type, how much labor is required, what materials we need, and how much data we need to reduce.