13 November 2009
CMS Acoustics Delivers Sound Modernisation for Motherwell College
A combination of CMS Acoustics' reverberation control solutions have been installed at the new purpose-built Motherwell College in Scotland. Built by Miller Construction, CMS SuperPhon Wall Panels and the attractive Vertiface acoustic wall covering were selected based on absorption performance and appearance credentials, helping to deliver the 21st Century facility to BB93 acoustic standards.
Replacing an existing campus, the new £70m, 26,500sq ft campus at Ravenscraig was designed to provide the community with a modern and functional environment to inspire learning. As practical yet visually striking acoustic solutions, CMS SuperPhon and Vertiface provided the ideal systems for BB93 compliance at Motherwell College.
John Downey, project manager, Miller Construction, comments: “The CMS Acoustics’ education range is extensive, which gives us flexibility to tailor acoustic solutions to meet the specific requirements of an education development. At Motherwell we aspired to deliver aesthetic finishes with acoustic performance – which CMS SuperPhon and Vertiface helped us achieve in very high profile public spaces.”
CMS SuperPhon Wall Panels offer a cost effective and practical solution for reducing reverberation times in education environments. The wall panels can achieve a noise absorption co-efficient of up to 1.07, delivering Class A absorption.
These highly absorptive panels are manufactured according to specific site requirements. Motherwell College required a total of 136 panels in a wide range of sizes, ranging from 453mm x 710mm up to 2113mm x 708mm. Installed in four areas throughout the college, including the stairwell, a colour scheme of Lead and Spray was chosen from the standard SuperPhon fabric range.
Complementing the CMS SuperPhon panel design, Vertiface was specified in silver, with a total of 122m2 installed. With Class A absorption solutions available, Vertiface offers an aesthetic solution for controlling reverberated sound and being impact resistant, is especially suited to areas of high traffic. Vertiface can also be used as a pin board if required, without acoustic performance being compromised.
Hugh Logan, Motherwell College Principal and CEO, comments: “Education environments need to inspire learners, which meant we had to adopt a creative approach to balancing practicality and design. Having now relocated to the new premises, we are extremely happy with the interior finish and the acoustic performance – it truly is a modern and sound learning environment.”
The CMS Acoustics education range provides access to the broadest choice of acoustic solutions, the selection of which will depend on aesthetic and performance requirements. The CMS Acoustics technical team can provide guidance on specifying an education system to meet design specifications as well as bespoke product manufacture on request. For details on the complete education range, request your free copy of the education brochure by calling 01925 577711 or visit www.cmsacoustics.co.uk.
Paul Absolon, technical director, CMS Acoustic Solutions, concludes: “Design targets for education are increasingly demanding, both in terms of the acoustic performance that must be achieved and the striking designs which architects visualise. Our product range and proven BB93 expertise enable us to provide guidance from design to installation, ensuring the right product is selected, no matter how challenging the specification.”


