Acoustic Management in Appliance Manufacturing; Noise dampening adhesives and tapes

With consumers wanting quieter appliances and regulations placed on noise levels, acoustic performance has become critical in appliance assembly. Noise dampening tapes and adhesives offer manufacturers and engineers a solution which doesn’t compromise on structural integrity or require major design overhauls.

Noise Sources in Appliances

Vibrations

Vibrations from motors, compressors, and pumps which are transferred through metal and plastic panels acting as sound boards, creating audible sounds.

Airflow

Noise can come from airflow in ventilation systems and water circulation, but also non-airtight seals.

Loose components and Structures

Regular vibration can cause traditional fastenings to come loose, and noise can also transmit through frames and mounting surfaces.

Where is Noise Suppression Required?

Both consumer and industrial appliances require noise and vibration insulation, examples include:

• Washing Machines
• Dryers
• HVACs
• Dishwashers
• Any appliance with a motor or compressor

Common Applications:

• Attaching insulating foam
• Airtight sealing
• Mounting motors, compressors, and pumps
• Replacing fasteners at risk of loosening

Noise Dampening Solutions:

There are numerous noise dampening and vibration insulation materials available, whether attaching insulating material or products which suppress noise themselves. Some of the products TECHSiL supply for appliance acoustic applications include:

Hotmelt Adhesives

Hotmelt provides fast, reliable bonding of acoustic insulation materials to appliance panelling, cooling to create a strong bond without solvents.

Spraytec 440 is a very high-performance adhesive for use on foam, many plastics, cardboard and more, making it ideal for product assembly applications, including the adhesion of foam insulation materials.

Foam Tape

Foam tapes and pressure sensitive adhesives provide dampening and sealing functions. They’re easy to apply, can be cut to size to suit the application, and can conform to irregular surfaces.

Both Eurobond EB5110BP & EB200G are foam acrylic tapes, ideal for white goods as they are lightweight, easy to use, solutions.

Dampening Foil

Dampening foil consists of a thin aluminium layer, which, when applied to vibrating panels, absorbs and dissipates vibrations to significantly reduce noise and metal fatigue. Much like foam tapes, they are easy to apply.

3M Dampening Foil 2552, a thermally conductive, heat reflective tape, is ideal for dampening vibrations on metal and plastic surfaces.

For more information about TECHSiL’s acoustic and noise dampening materials, contact our Technical Team today for a complimentary consultation.

Appliance Industry Further Reading:

• Adhesives Vs Mechanical Fasteners for Appliance Manufacturing 
• Adhesives for High Stress, Load Bearing Parts
• What to Consider When Selecting Adhesives for Appliance Assembly