At the end of last year, we introduced an integrated Ruukki® Sound Environment solution, which combines load-bearing sheets, sound-absorbing materials, and cladding products into a functional sound environment solution. We closely monitored its functionality in our pilot project, the Seinäjoki paddle center. The center has a free height of 11 meters, and the construction was carried out by our partner Trutec Oy, specializing in commercial, industrial, and production hall construction.

Installation of the roof acoustic solution did not mean any additional work phases

“During the planning phase, we did not know how the acoustic solution would perform once the building was completed, but now it sounds good. For us, this was a typical sports center project in terms of load-bearing structures, and Ruukki products were already familiar to us. If the acoustics do not work in the finished center, various customized options such as wall fabrics or acoustic panels may be required to improve the acoustics. This step is eliminated if the sound environment solution functions optimally in the finished center. Of course, during the construction phase, we noticed that the echoing of work noises was less pronounced than on a typical construction site," recalls Jukka Kapela, CEO of Trutec.

In addition to the load-bearing roof structures with integrated acoustic solution, Trutec chose Ruukki sandwich panels as wall elements for the center.

Asta Pihlajamäki served as the project manager at Trutec for the turnkey contract. Asta also believes that Ruukki's sound environment solution met expectations perfectly. She is currently working on several acoustically challenging projects where Ruukki's Sound Environment solution is highly suitable.

Measurements were utilized throughout the process

In large halls, such as this paddle center, the roof plays a significant role in achieving a functional sound environment. Initially, the reverberation time of the center, which is the time it takes for sound to decay after its production, was estimated to be about 12 seconds without sound attenuation solutions. The goal was to reduce the reverberation time to under three seconds, which was calculated to be possible with Ruukki's load-bearing acoustic corrugated sheet profile LBS T153 AcuB. The reverberation was measured when the building was weatherproof.

JVCON Oy completed the acoustics in the entrance area, the main court, and the cafeteria of the center using Ruukki's acoustic wall cladding products, covering a total area of approximately 100 m2. Its impact was also measured. In critical speech frequency ranges, the reverberation time was less than 2.5 seconds. The end result speaks for itself.

Users appreciate the solution

The users of the center are now able to enjoy the solutions. "My personal experiences with the acoustics of the Seinäjoki paddle center are really positive. It's pleasant to play in the center without disturbing echoes, which I didn't notice at all. I could speak normally during the game without speech distortion," says Juha Varo, an entrepreneur who has also become a paddle player, from the installation company JVCON Oy.

Juha Varo, JVCON (left), and Tero Mäntylä, Padel Club Finland, challenged each other on the paddle court.

Juha also recalls the construction phase. "In my opinion, the good acoustic properties were evident already during the construction phase. There was much less disturbing echo from construction machinery and warning buzzers on personnel lifts compared to other centers where we have been involved in construction work. I recommend this solution for other projects where people's comfort is important, not only for sports centers," Juha adds.

Tero Mäntylä is the investor of the center and the regional manager of Padel Club Finland. He has experience of various paddle centers. "From the beginning, I have been delighted that we were able to pilot this new sound environment solution here in the Seinäjoki paddle center. Visitors and players have enjoyed the center and spontaneously commented on the pleasant acoustics. Players stay in the center longer, and they can have peaceful post-game discussions in the lounge area while the games continue on the courts. That's why we named the space the Ruukki Lounge. Welcome to play and experience the feel of the center for yourself," Tero adds with a sunny smile.

Trutec chose Ruukki sandwich panels as wall elements for the paddle center.

Read also the previous news about this topic

A brief overview of sound environments in large spaces

Ruukki offers basic solutions up to the highest class A to ensure controlled sound environments even in everyday spaces. In large spaces, the most important practically measurable sound parameter is the reverberation time in seconds. The reverberation time should be sufficiently short. Rules of thumb and recommendations for an appropriate reverberation time can be found based on the purpose and objectives of the space. Ruukki Acoustic Estimator, freely available to everyone, can be used to quickly assess the reverberation in envelope structures. Basic information about the indoor space dimensions and the average height of the ceiling is sufficient for the assessment. A representative view of good reverberation times and sound environment levels in different usage scenarios can be found in the standard "Building Acoustics Design and Quality Classification" (SFS 5907). Even if classified building acoustics may not be necessary, or if the intended building and its primary use do not fit the standard's typical buildings or applications, human experiences of the sound environment are very similar.