Structure-borne sound transmission through a lightweight T-junction

Abstract

This paper examines structure-borne sound transmission through a T-junction formed by a plywood worktop (source plate) and a lightweight partition. This type of structure is typically found in kitchens, where impact sound originated from a worktop can be responsible for noise complaints in adjacent places. Tests have been carried out for a variety of connection arrangements and measured data has been compared with predictions given by statistical energy analysis models. Results indicate that the junction does not behave rigidly (even when glued and screwed along its length) and that large variations in transmission occur depending on the fixing method used to connect the worktop to the partition.