In commercial, industrial, and specialized buildings, rooftop equipment like HVAC units, exhaust fans, generators and more can generate significant sound and vibration, which can disrupt occupants, damage structures, and violate local noise ordinances and building codes. Effective sound reduction and vibration isolation is critical to address these challenges, which is why we set out to create a number of effective and reliable solutions.
After months of research and development, we are proud to announce the introduction of Pate Sound & Vibration Reduction Technology (PSVRT), which will feature a complete line of sound reduction and vibration isolation products designed to meet the needs of building owners, engineers and architects in a wide range of commercial and industrial building applications.
This new line is a natural extension of our existing roof curb and equipment support products – for which Pate has been known and respected for more than 60 years. Our expanded and improved product group of curb-deployed sound reduction and vibration isolation technologies is focused on providing effective sound and vibration isolation that is backed by laboratory performance testing and Pate design support.
Introducing the Pate Sound Shield (PSS)
The PSS is an acoustic treatment for noise transfer reduction through roof-mounted equipment curbs. It features an acoustical barrier with high specific gravity, allowing for higher absorption of sound waves, which greatly reduces sound transmission from the equipment to the interior of the building. The result is sound reductions of 13 to 75 dB, depending on the application, with ratings from STC27 to STC58.
The PSS can be applied inside a variety of Pate curbs, including plenum and non-plenum curbs, either in the Pate factory or in the field, if needed. It is quick and easy to install, requiring no acoustical caulk during the installation process. Each PSS treatment is engineered to match the specified piece of equipment, as well as other customer requirements.
The PSS is comprised of the flexible acoustic barrier and an industry-leading batten layer, both of which are fire resistant. The batten layer itself carries an R-value of 8.0, which provides the added benefit of improved thermal efficiency of the roof curb. The PSS also utilizes a superior acoustical tape which assures the entire system remains watertight, without the mess seen in other systems that utilize caulk.
The highly effective acoustical barrier, combined with superior thermal insulation and water resistance – all in a cost-effective package – makes the Pate Sound Shield unlike any other similar product currently available in the market.
More sound and vibration reduction products are on the way
The new Pate Sound Shield is just the first of many sound reduction and vibration isolation products coming soon. As we complete final testing, we will soon be launching additional products in the PSVRT lineup. Each is designed to tackle specific common problems that have been identified by our longtime customers and manufacturer’s representatives. New products that will be rolled out soon to meet the needs of the industry include:
Pate Sound Curbs (PSC)
These in-curb sound reduction treatments will offer cost-effective solutions for reducing noise from small fans.
Pate Vibration Reduction Gasket (PVRG)
Our innovative gasket system is designed to adhere to any roof curb in order to seal the equipment to the curb ductwork, and to reduce the mechanical vibration emitting from the piece of equipment. The PVRG will reduce mechanical vibration up to 70%, while offering leak-free sealing and easy installation – all in a very cost-effective package.
Pate Vibration Reduction Rails (PVRR)
The PVRR isolation system is designed to significantly reduce the mechanical vibration transmitted to the building structure from curb mounted HVAC equipment, while also acting as a seismic and wind restraint to keep the equipment attached to the roof curb, and ultimately the building structure.
PSVRT-Max
Our maximum sound and vibration reduction package, PSVRT-Max, will combine a heavy-duty Pate curb accompanied by our Pate Sound Shield package, PVRG, and PVRR isolation system. We believe it will be the industry’s most advanced and most effective sound and vibration reduction solution for curb-mounted HVAC equipment.
Don’t underestimate the importance of sound and vibration reduction for rooftop equipment
Sound from rooftop equipment – often exceeding 70 decibels – can penetrate building interiors, disturbing tenants in offices, retail environments, hospitals, residential and other spaces below. For instance, a single HVAC unit can produce high enough noise levels to, if left unmitigated, lead to complaints, reduced productivity and violations of local building codes and regulations.
In addition, equipment vibration poses many potential structural risks. Unchecked, it can loosen fasteners, crack roofs, or transfer through the building, amplifying noise and causing long-term wear on both the equipment and the structure. Excessive vibration can reduce an HVAC unit’s lifespan by 20-30%, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
For commercial buildings, especially in noise-sensitive sectors like healthcare, hospitality and others, investing in sound and vibration reduction products for rooftop equipment isn’t just a luxury – it’s a necessity. And that’s exactly why we developed our new Pate Sound & Vibration Reduction Technology product line. Mitigation of noise and vibration issues is now easy with the proper selection and installation of PSVRT products.
Let us help you protect building occupant well-being, preserve building structural integrity, and ensure compliance with all codes, standards and regulations. Watch this website for more information and upcoming announcements, and feel free to contact us or one of our manufacturer’s representatives to learn more. You can find your Pate salesperson, who can put you in touch with your local Pate manufacturer’s representative, by choosing your state on our interactive map.
