Metal Foams: A Design Guide

Case studies 221
Figure 17.4 Highways, high traffic volume and high residential
development create the need for sound-management systems. (Courtesy of
Shinko Wire Company Ltd.)
to reduce traffic noise. Ł With the development of extensive highways and the
increase in traffic volume and the density of residential development, noise
pollution and other environmental problems have assumed greater prominence,
creating the need for sound shielding. A proprietary treatment of ALPORAS
(see Chapter 2, Section 2.3) gives a foam structure with enhanced soundabsorbing
capability. The structure features a layer of foamed aluminum that
is attached to either concrete or galvanized steel with an air gap of calculated
width to maximize absorption. The foamed aluminum faces the road to
maximize sound absorption. The concrete or galvanized steel backing acts as
a sound insulator, keeping the noise from reaching surrounding residents.
Shinko claim that the material is fire resistant, does not generate harmful
gases in the presence of a flame, has excellent durability and resistance to
Ł Shinko Wire Company Ltd, Alporas Division, 10-1 Nakahama, Amagasaki 660, Japan. Phone:
(06) 411-1061; fax (06) 411-1075.
Drillfix AG, Drillfix European Distribution, Herrenmatt 7F, CH-5200 Brugg, Switerland.
Phone (41) 56 442 5037; fax (41) 564423635.