Woodfab acoustic barriers were originally invented in 1975 for the Department of Transport in the UK. They have since been installed in many major UK highways and have stood the test of time. Over 23 years ago a Buffalo acoustic barrier was erected on the M4 in the UK (photo #3 below). This structure is still there today, delivering the same acoustic protection and has been totally maintenance free throughout this period.
Acoustic performance
Tests carried out on sites have proven that the barriers have effectively reduced noise by more than 50%.
This has arisen from developing exclusive designs, manufacturing and testing. The Woodfab barrier is an engineered innovative structure and is built to a much higher standard than mere fencing and uses much more robust materials to meet the necessary strength, longevity and acoustic requirements.
Dimensions:
The standard barrier is available in heights of 1.5m, 2.0m, 2.5m and 3.0m. Post centres can be either 2.4m or 3.0m.
Taller non standard barriers of 3.5m , 4.0m and upwards can be provided. Contact us with your specific requirements so that we can advise you of the best solution for your needs.
Types
We manufacture various types of noise barrier which have been laboratory tested for acoustic performance. All of our barriers carry a robust acoustic design , have mechanical and structural integrity and are durable.
Our ABSORPTIVE barriers are designed to insulate against noise and absorb the noise that strikes them. Through laboratory testing a performance coefficient can be assigned to a barrier, expressed as a single number rating: A0 to A3, where A3 has a very high coefficient.
Our REFLECTIVE barriers, which also insulate against noise but reflect the noise that strikes them, can be manufactured single skinned or double skinned. Again, through laboratory testing, a performance coefficient can be assigned to a barrier, expressed as a single number rating: B0 to B3 where B3 has a very high coefficient.
The Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TFI) document, Guidelines for the Treatment of Noise and Vibration in National Road Schemes, sets a noise design goal “performance standard” of 60L den (free field) to be achieved, where feasible, on all new national road schemes for 15 years after the road opens and sets a desired service life of 30 years.
Achievement of the performance specified in the European Standards for Noise Barriers, I.S. EN 1793 and I.S. EN 1794 is now mandatory on all new road projects. I.S EN 1793 covers the test methods to determine acoustic performance and I.S. EN 1794 covers the assessment methods to determine non acoustic performance ( structural, mechanical and environmental aspects)
Woodfab barriers are manufactured to meet with these standards and are treated with Tanalith E preservative in accordance with I.S. 435-1:2005 which specifies a desired service life of 30 years.
Woodfab Structure barriers can be seen on the Dunkettle Interchange, at Lidl in Mallow, on the Ballyclare Relief Road in Antrim, on the Donabate Distributor Road and at various other locations throughout Ireland. We have also supplied acoustic barriers to James Strang Limited, Civil Engineering and Fencing Contractors in Scotland, and these are installed at various locations in Scotland.