Polyurethane Foam for Reduction of Impact Noise and Vibration in Fitness Floors

Impact noise and vibration associated with weight drops in fitness facilities is a common topic in building acoustics. Fitness centers are becoming more prevalent in residential and office buildings, where vibrations are a considerable nuisance. Getzner USA, with parent company Getzner Werkstoffe, has developed Sylodamp(r), a high damping PU elastomer foam, to effectively absorb impact loads. Getzner has implemented solutions using Sylodamp(r) and Sylomer(r) polyurethane foam buildups in fitness floor projects where high impact loads from weights drops create not only significant noise and vibration, but also cause damage to the structural floor. Densities of Sylodamp(r) and Sylomer(r) can be selected based on specific load requirements of weights and the dynamic response of the structural floor. Through series of field tests at a large college athletic facility, Getzner USA identified key factors in implementing a customized performance floor. Designated areas for several activities such as racked weights, free weights and agility drills were specified with different combinations and thicknesses of Sylodamp(r) and Sylomer(r) to target varying impact loads. Consideration was also given to material stiffnesses to accommodate adequate stability for the athlete's comfort. The field tests yielded buildups that provided significant reductions in vibration acceleration levels and sound levels.