WAVEBREAKER AB > PRODUCT > FAQ
It is a "noise trap" which uses the noise waves from the noise source, e.g. the train, and within 3 ms transmits the anti-waves towards and across the original source waves going above the noise screen. By that, it creates an interference sound field above and behind the noise screen where it is placed, resulting in a lower noise than without Wavebreaker.
Wavebreaker is installed on the edge of noise screens and can be considered to be a kind of a diffractor device. Wavebreaker is the only available diffractor using interference technology.
When two sound waves cross each other, the resulting wave pattern will be the sum of the sound pressure in each point and time, i.e. plus X pressure meets minus X pressure = zero. Designing this correctly it could lead to a total lower sound pressure level on the receiver side.
Wavebreaker can be an option instead of a higher noise screen (up to 2 m). If you build your noise protection barrier in e.g. concrete or wood, the total sustainability effect over 40 years will be at up to 30% better using Wavebreaker instead of building a higher wall, mainly due to much less material used.
The product is optimized for train traffic and a recent report shows potential for road traffic noise. We hope to find interested clients and together learn more about the potential. We are very keen on using Wavebreaker where it can be effective and for the right purpose. Contact us if you have a technical inquiry.
Wavebreaker is still a new product with big potential to be a useful additional noise damper in many cases. Our knowledge is mainly based on controled-environment measurements in laboratory and a pilot project from an urban environment in Stockholm, with influencing parameters as noise screen quality, multiple reflections etc. Each project has a unique set of conditions and we are eager to learn more and further develop our knowledge and experience.
Our best conclusions at this moment are that it is possible to reach considerable noise reduction results up to at least 25-50 m from the source. Since it is a new product we do not have all answers but we hope to constantly learn more from real-life projects. We are e.g. curious to investigate if a noise reduction up to 50-100 m is possible. (It is well-known that beyond 100 m the noise damping effect from any kind of noise screen or similar products are strongly dependent on wind and weather conditions.)
No. Wavebreaker is completely "passive". It uses only the energy from the noise source sound field to create anti-sound waves.
In order to meet the goals of a light-weight and cost-effective part with long lifetime, and at the same time avoid the need for grounding of a metal part, it was a natural choice. From an environmental point of view we use up to 100% recycled material and Wavebreaker can easily be recycled again. The development of recycling and BIO-plastics goes very fast and is in our favour.
If single parts need to be replaced due to vandalism or other reasons, this part can easily be dismounted and replaced by a new one. Wavebreaker is a modular system.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided is intended only as a summary and general overview on matters of interest. Wavebreaker AB has made every attempt to ensure accuracy and reliability of the information provided on this website. However, the information is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. The mentioned values / results are dependent on various parameters such as train data, noise spectrum, noise screen design and quality, geometric data, etc and actual results achieved in specific projects may vary. The information is not intended to be comprehensive nor does it constitute expert advice. Wavebreaker AB shall not be liable for incidental and/or consequential damages directly or indirectly sustained, nor any loss caused by not complying with relevant industry/product standards and improper use of any Wavebreaker product. Due to varying construction methods, any other circumstances not stated above should be brought to the attention of Wavebreaker AB for review. For suitability to the prevailing site conditions, it is advised that certified testing should be conducted. It is recommended to seek further advice on your application with our technical staff prior to use.