Detailed Design Acoustics Report

Yas Zone 1B
Sub-Plot 2
Detailed Design Acoustics Report
for
Aldar Properties PJSC
8 March 2018
Notice
This document and its contents have been prepared and are intended solely for WS Atkins & Partners
Overseas information and use in relation to Sub-plot 2 of the Yas Zone 1B development.
WS Atkins International Ltd assumes no responsibility to any other party in respect of or arising out of or in
connection with this document and/or its contents.
This document has 43 pages including the cover.
Document history
Job number: 5145326 Document ref: YAS-IB-ATK-AC-REP-00047
Revision Purpose description Originated Checked Reviewed Authorised Date
Rev 0 Issue SM CM DB IE 17/07/17
Rev 1 Updated Architectural SM CM DB IE 05/02/18
Section
Rev 2 Updated Façade Section SM CM DB IE 01/03/18
Rev 3 Minor changes SM CM DB IE 08/03/18
Document information
Client WS Atkins & Partners Overseas
Project Yas Zone 1B – Sub-Plot 2
Document title Detailed Design Report
Job no. 5145326
Revision no. 3
Document
YAS-IB-ATK-AC-REP-00047
reference
Atkins Detailed Design Report | Rev 3 | 8 March 2018 | 5145326 2

Table of contents
Chapter Pages
1. Introduction 5
2. Performance Requirements 7
External Noise Intrusion 7
Acoustic Separation 7
Background Noise Levels 8
External Amenity Noise Criteria 8
Interior Acoustics 8
Noise Levels from Elevators 9
Impact Sound Isolation 9
Apartment Ceilings 9
Doors 10
Noise from Wind and Thermal Movement 10
3. General Requirements 11
Workmanship 11
Interfaces between Building Elements 11
Bridging of Isolated or Floating Structures 12
Services Penetrations 12
Making Good of Holes 12
Access Panels 12
Noise Generation 12
Design Life 12
Health and Safety 13
4. Building Envelope & Glazing 14
Glazing Requirements 14
5. Structural 16
Structural Slabs 16
Core Walls 16
Expansion Joints 16
6. Architectural 17
Adjacency Considerations 17
Partition Constructions & Degrees of Privacy 18
Partition Construction Detailing 19
General Acoustic Detailing Considerations 19
Flanking via Façade 20
Impact Sound Isolation 20
Doors 20
Interior Finishes 21
7. MEP Systems 22
External Amenity Noise Criteria 22
Mechanical & Plant Rooms 22
Air Handling Units 22
Fan Coil Units 23
Access Panels 23
Pressure Reducing Boxes 24
Diffusers & Grilles 24
Rooftop Exhaust Fans 24

Car Park Ventilation 25
Cross-Talk through Make-Up and Exhaust Risers 25
Return Air Transfers 25
Garbage Chutes 26
Pumps 26
Plumbing 27
Toilets above Occupied Spaces 28
Generators 28
Main Transformers 29
Local Floor Transformers (480V/500 kVA or Less) 29
Seismic Restraint 29
Vibration Isolation 29
8. Vertical Transportation 31
Appendix A. Glossary of Acoustic Terminology 33
Appendix B. Flanking Details General Principles (Design Intent Only) 35
Appendix C. Sample Specifications 41

1. Introduction
1.1. Atkins Acoustics Noise & Vibration (ANV) has been requested by WS Atkins and Partners
Overseas, on behalf of their client Aldar Properties PJSC, to provide acoustic consultancy services
for the proposed Yas Zone 1B development in Abu Dhabi. This report provides the detailed design
strategy for acoustics, noise and vibration for the development.
Yas Zone 1B – Plot 1
1.2. The project, Yas Zone 1B Plot 1 Residential Development is divided into 4 Sub Plots as shown in
the figure above and includes the following:
Sub Plot 1 & Sub Plot 2:
• Surface and basement car parking;
• Residential apartments.
Sub Plot 3:
• Surface and basement car parking;
• Residential apartments.
Sub Plot 4
• Community and Amenities Facility;
• Mosque.
1.3. The intent of this report is such that should all design guidance and recommendations be followed
in this report, the design criteria outlined in Section 2 will be achieved.
1.4. The information and recommendations in this report are to be provided for the project and
coordinated with other design and construction disciplines. Where other documents may indicate
different approaches or treatments, the acoustic items and treatments in this report are to be priced
and provided for the project. A coordinated project approach will be documented by other design

and construction disciplines, and is to be incorporated into project drawings, specifications, pricing
and/ or construction.
1.5. Tender drawings and specifications of the development have been provided by Atkins Dubai
offices. Our review has been based upon the information and layouts shown in these drawings
dated January 2018.
1.6. This report is divided into several sections. Firstly, we outline the acoustic design criteria for the
project; then review the structural and architectural designs; and then we provide a review of
mechanical systems.
1.7. Specifications provided in this report primarily address acoustic performance for specific acoustic
materials and treatments. The specifications do not necessarily include all project general
conditions and requirements, and must be reviewed and modified as necessary to include project
specific general conditions and requirements.
1.8. General acoustic advice pertaining to the optimisation of sound insulation performance and general
detailing considerations are provided within the report. The various acoustic indices referred to in
this report are described in Appendix A.

2. Performance Requirements
2.1. The performance requirements and design goals for Sub Plot 2 of the Yas Zone 1B development
are stated in this section. Design criteria are listed for all key acoustic requirements including, but
not limited to, acoustic separation, background noise levels due to mechanical systems, interior
acoustics and impact sound transmission.
2.2. Aldar Properties PJSC Apartment Design Guidelines Part 2 – Layout Principles (Section 2.4.17)
define the acoustic requirements for new developments. The design criteria are stated below for
the targeted Bronze standard.
2.3. Please note that Estidama Pearl ratings are being targeted for the development however only
mandatory credits have been sought. Therefore, the design criteria stated within Estidama LBi-9
Indoor Noise Pollution are not compulsory, though certain elements of the LBi9 design criteria have
been targeted e.g. indoor ambient noise levels.
External Noise Intrusion

2.4. Maximum noise levels within internal spaces due to external noise intrusion into the building are
listed below.
2.5. The noise levels in the table refer to repeatable maximum internal noise levels measured during
the nominated period of the day over a 1 hour measurement interval. Areas not listed in the table
below shall be designed to comply with the relevant recommended design sound level as detailed
International standard ISO 91.120.20: Acoustics in building: Sound insulation. Where Estidama
Credit LBi-9: Indoor Noise Pollution is not required the below standard shall be followed:
Aldar Maximum Limits due to External Noise Intrusion (BRONZE)
BRONZE
Space Maximum Internal Noise level
Bedroom 40 dB LAeq (9 hour)
Living, dining rooms 45 dB LAeq (9 hour)
Acoustic Separation
2.6. For airborne sound insulation (i.e. resistance to the transmission of speech, music noise, television
noise etc.) the minimum acceptable level of sound insulation performance required by Aldar is
quoted in terms of a laboratory rated performance criterion (Rw) plus spectrum adaptation term
(Ctr).
Aldar Minimum Requirements for Airborne Sound Insulation (BRONZE)
Building Element Minimum Airborne Sound Insulation

Inter-tenancy 50 dB Rw + Ctr
Inter-tenancy Wet to habitable (discontinuous
50 dB Rw + Ctr
construction)
Inter-tenancy Walls dividing Apartments from
50 dB Rw
Lift Cores, Plant Rooms
Inter-tenancy Walls between Apartments and
50 dB Rw
Car parks
Inter-tenancy Walls between Apartments and
Common Corridors, Public Stairwells, Fire 50 dB Rw
Stairs

Walls between Apartment Habitable Areas
40 dB Rw + Ctr
(including kitchens) and Services Ducts/ Risers
Walls between Apartment Bathrooms and
Laundries and Services Ducts/Risers 25 dB Rw + Ctr
Floors Separating Apartments 50 dB Rw + Ctr
Floor between Apartments and Common Areas
50 dB Rw
or Non-Residential
2.7. The partition constructions and surrounding details with which to achieve the above performance
requirements are discussed in upcoming sections of this report.
Background Noise Levels

2.8. The Aldar Guidelines include background noise level design goals produced by the normal
operation of mechanical, electrical and conveying systems should not exceed the levels specified
in the table below.
2.9. The Aldar requirements are stated using the LAeq descriptor, however background noise from
mechanical plant is usually stated as a Noise Rating (NR) level. As a guide, the equivalent NR
level can be obtained by the following equation: NR = LAeq – 6.
Aldar Maximum Noise Levels for Background Noise (BRONZE)
Maximum Background Noise Equivalent Noise Rating

Space
Level (LAeq) (NR) Level
Bedroom 30 24
Bedroom Air conditioning
35 29
(when set to design air quality)
Living, dining rooms 45 39
Bathrooms 45 39
Laundries 50 44
Lift Lobbies and corridors 50 44
2.10. Unless stated otherwise, the noise level criteria shall not be exceeded with the plant operating
under normal operating conditions, and at start-up for intermittently operating plant items. Tactile
structural vibration levels produced by plant shall not exceed the criteria given in ASHRAE NRC
and ISO 140-3 standards.
External Amenity Noise Criteria

2.11. The target criteria for noise at external amenity areas (i.e. balconies, terraces, outdoor swimming
pool etc.) is not included within the Aldar Guidelines. We propose these be set as 50 dB LAeqT,
with an upper limit of 55 dB LAeqT, in line with the guidance provided in BS 8233: 2014.
Interior Acoustics
2.12. The Aldar Apartment Design Guidelines do not include design criteria for the control of
reverberation within public areas. However, given entrance lobbies will be transient spaces, we
only envisage control of reverberation to be required within apartment corridors and stairwells.

2.13. Approved Document E of the UK Building Regulations includes a requirement (E3) for controlling
reverberant sound within common landings and stairwells in apartment buildings. This issue is
discussed later in the report.
2.14. Note that internal acoustics within apartments will be under the remit of the owner/ occupier and
will depend on how they wish to furnish their apartment.
Noise Levels from Elevators

2.15. Aldar requirements state that lift motors and control equipment shall be vibration isolated from the
building structure. The maximum noise level produced by the lift car operation shall not exceed 30
dB(A) when measured within a bedroom, and 35 dB(A) when measured within a living room. Lift
motors and associated equipment shall be vibration isolated so that structure borne noise will not
be audible within apartments.
Impact Sound Isolation

2.16. For the control of impact noise transmission i.e. heel drop, chair scrapes etc. from vertically
adjacent spaces Aldar states the following minimum requirements.
Aldar Minimum Requirements for Impact Sound Transmission (BRONZE)
Floor Minimum Impact Sound Insulation

Apartment Bathroom / Laundry to Bathroom /
62 dB L,nw + C1 / IIC 50
Laundry
Apartment to Apartment 62 dB L,nw + C1 / IIC 50
Balconies to Apartments
(internal space of another apartment partially or 62 dB L,nw + C1 / IIC 50
fully below)
Apartment Ceilings
2.17. The following list describes the minimum sound insulation(Rw) ratings for the separation of
waste/supply/storm water pipework traversing across apartments.
2.18. All ceiling systems are to comply with the Aldar requirements unless higher standard of treatment
is defined within the Abu Dhabi Municipality, International Building Code or service provider
applicable regulation.
Aldar Minimum Requirements for Sound Insulation of Services in Ceilings (BRONZE)

Apartment Bathroom / Laundry Ceilings 25 dB Rw + Ctr
Apartment ceilings outside bathrooms and
laundries below waste pipes (including storm
*40 dB Rw + Ctr
water pipework and services pipes serving
other apartments)
Note* This rating may be achieved by constructing bulk heads locally or externally lagging
waste/storm water/supply pipework within the ceiling.
2.19. Acoustically certified access panels to equal the acoustic performance of the element in which they
are installed must be used. Typically, this will require the use of 25 dB Rw + Ctr access panels.
Access panels for waste piping shall not be located on the sides of risers facing habitable rooms.

Doors
2.20. The Aldar performance requirements state that apartment doors achieve a minimum 25 dB DnT,w +
Ctr rating. Plant room doors should generally aim to achieve a minimum 30 dB R w rating.
Noise from Wind and Thermal Movement

2.21. The façade should be constructed to ensure that noise generated by thermal movement is
unnoticeable under normal conditions.
2.22. Noise generated by rainfall on lightweight elements of the façade (excluding glazing) should be
minimised by effective damping of the outer skin.
2.23. Air movement across the façade shall not cause audible rattling, whistling or other attention-
catching noise inside or outside the building.

3. General Requirements
Workmanship
3.1. The selected contractor’s attention is drawn to the fact that a good standard of workmanship is
required throughout. The specifications and drawings must be followed with the utmost attention
to detail. The contractor should contact a WS Atkins or Client representative if unclear about any
of the requirements.
3.2. Special care must be taken by the contractor in acoustically sensitive areas, that is, where a high
degree of sound insulation or a low background noise level is required, or where special acoustic
treatment is installed.
3.3. The correct acoustic performance of the various completed buildings is essential to the future
success of the development. If specified acoustic criteria are not achieved, remedial work would
be necessary.
3.4. The criteria are concerned mainly with sound insulation between rooms and sound absorption and
distribution within rooms. Notwithstanding the generality of the requirement for a high standard of
workmanship, particular reference is made to the following:
Sound Insulation
3.5. Sound insulation between rooms is dependent mainly on the weight of the separating floors,
ceilings, walls, windows and doors and the degree to which they are sealed airtight.
3.6. It is essential, therefore, that blockwork is of the specified weight per unit area, mortar is continuous
throughout the thickness of the walls and that no gaps occur where walls meet other walls, the
structural soffit, or joinery work at windows and doors.
3.7. Where a mastic seal is specified, this should be continuous and completely airtight.
3.8. The fitting of doors in frames must be carried out with care, in accordance with the specified
tolerances. Any acoustic seals will need to be carefully adjusted so that the door installation is
airtight.
3.9. Service penetrations (ducts, pipes, conduits and trunking) through walls, floors and ceilings of
acoustically sensitive areas, must be carefully sealed in accordance with the details. No other holes
or chases are permitted without permission from a WS Atkins or Client representative.
Sound Absorption and Distribution

3.10. Sound absorption and distribution within rooms is dependent on several factors. In particular, the
contractors’ attention is drawn to the following factors which are critical:
• The weights, thicknesses and homogeneity of mineral wool and other acoustically
absorbent materials.
• The dimensions and relative positions of air spaces, mineral wool and all other materials.
• The sealing of air spaces where specified.
Interfaces between Building Elements

3.11. Interfaces between elements of the building shall be designed and constructed such that the
requirements of this document are not compromised.

Bridging of Isolated or Floating Structures
3.12. Building elements which are required to span across isolation boundaries shall be designed,
constructed, and installed in a manner which does not cause bridging of the isolation boundaries.
3.13. During construction, it shall be ensured that building debris does not cause bridging of the isolation
boundaries. Measures shall be taken to prevent building debris entering wall, floor and ceiling
cavities, and soft joints. If it occurs, the cavities shall be immediately and thoroughly cleared of
debris.
Services Penetrations
3.14. Penetrations through building elements shall be sealed to ensure that the sound insulation and
noise criteria performance requirements of this document are not compromised. Refer to Appendix
C for typical details for sealing services penetrations.
Making Good of Holes

3.15. Ensure that all holes through building elements are made in such a way that the sound insulation
and noise criteria performance requirements of this document are not compromised.
3.16. Holes made in building elements shall be made good. This shall be done by filling or covering the
hole with a material of the same mass per unit area as the building element through which the hole
has been made, using a method that ensures that no material can fall into cavities or bridge
isolation boundaries.
Access Panels
3.17. Where access needs to be provided through a building element (e.g. for servicing or maintenance
purposes) access panels shall be provided.
3.18. Access panels shall be constructed in such a way that the sound insulation performance and noise
criteria requirements listed within this document are not compromised when the access panel is
closed. This will generally be achieved by ensuring that the access panel is of the same mass per
unit area as the building element through which access is being provided and that the access panel
is properly sealed around its full perimeter when closed.
Noise Generation
3.19. Ensure that all building elements are designed, constructed and installed in such a way that they
do not generate audible noises including (but not limited to) rattles, hums, buzzes, or creaks, during
normal use of the building, including (but not limited to) the following circumstances:
• When the building element is exposed to sounds or vibrations;
• When the building element is exposed to airflow from ventilation systems or winds;
• When loads and forces (within design tolerances) are applied to the building element;
• When movements (within design tolerances) occur in structures to a fixed building

element.
Design Life
3.20. All building elements shall be designed, constructed and installed such that they meet the acoustic
performance requirements for at least as long as the design life of the building.

Health and Safety
Fibre Size
3.21. Exclude all acoustic insulation products made of fibres, whether man made or naturally occurring,
where the mean diameter of the fibres is less than 3 microns.
COSHH Regulations
3.22. Provide evidence of compliance with the CONTROL OF SUBSTANCES HAZARDOUS TO
HEALTH Regulations 2002 on demand including evidence of assessment and competence of
assessor(s).
3.23. Directive 2003/ 10/EC on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding exposure of
workers to the risks arising from physical agents (noise) requires:
The maximum noise level in all spaces, including plant rooms, shall where possible be no more
than 80 dB(A). In locations where this is not possible, the contractor shall obtain approval from a
WS Atkins or Client representative.
Where the noise level in any space exceeds the first action level of Directive 2003/10/EC, the
contractor shall carry out all work (including noise assessments) and supply all equipment required
to comply with the Directive 2003/10/EC.

4. Building Envelope & Glazing
4.1. Atkins ANV carried out a baseline noise survey of the entire Yas Zone 1B development site in May
2016. The methodology and measurement results of the noise survey can be found within the
Schematic Design Acoustic Report (ref: 2017/Feb/05_Rev 1 dated 21 March 2017).
4.2. The data obtained from the baseline noise survey was then utilised to inform the acoustic design
of the building façades in the development, and in this case Sub Plot 2. From the obtained dataset,
representative noise levels likely to be incident upon the building façades have been derived and
are presented in the table below. The figures shown in the table below include a +3 dB façade
correction.
Plot 1 Baseline Noise Conditions
Metric Frequency (Hz) dB(A)

125 250 500 1000 2000 4000
dB Lmax (1)
88 85 83 81 77 71 86
dB Leq,1hr (2)
73 71 68 66 61 58 70
(1)
In line with World Health Organisation guidelines an allowance for up to 10 exceedances of the LAFmax limit is incorporated.
(2)
Considered “worst-case” hourly period (0230-0330).
Glazing Requirements
4.3. To determine the minimum sound insulation performance required of glazed façade elements for
compliance with the design criteria, noise intrusion calculations were carried out in accordance with
BS EN 12354:2017 ‘Building acoustics - Estimation of acoustic performance of buildings from the
performance of elements’ within the frequency range of 125 Hz to 4000 Hz.
4.4. The assessment was undertaken based upon the proposed façade design, glazing extents and
internal layouts. A reverberation time of 0.5 seconds was assumed within all spaces. The
calculations undertaken expected the ventilation strategy in all habitable spaces to be fully
mechanical with no operable windows required for the provision of adequate ventilation, and with
no untreated penetrations in the building façade.
4.5. The Aldar standard requires the selected glazing system to reduce noise to the following internal
levels: Bedroom 40 dB LAeq (9 hour); Living/Dining Room 45 dB LAeq (9 hour). However due to the high
impulsive type noise levels experienced at the site (up to 89 dB L AFmax), our study showed that
should glazing be installed that would achieve the Aldar LAeq standards, this would allow
excessively high noise levels inside the apartments i.e. over 50 dB LAFmax.
4.6. Note that during the noise survey we observed aircraft passing overhead approximately every two
minutes between 02:00 and 04:00 hours. Noise levels this intense, and being so frequent, would
be expected to cause sleep disturbance to apartment occupants.
4.7. Therefore, to try and protect residential amenity it is recommended that the more onerous Estidama
LBi-9 Indoor Noise criteria be targeted. The Estidama LBi-9 criteria state that internal ambient noise
levels should not exceed 40 dB LAeq,T in all spaces, plus during the hours of 23:00 to 07:00 internal
ambient noise levels within bedrooms should be less than 35 dB LAeq (8 hour), and critically, that
discrete impulsive noise events not exceed of 45 dB L AFmax.
4.8. A number of glazing options have been assessed. To achieve the recommended indoor noise level
within bedrooms, glazed areas of the façade should achieve the following acoustic performance to
minimise the risk of sleep disturbance during discrete noise events:

Required Bedroom Glazing Acoustic Performance
Using 13.52mm lam – 16mm gap – 10mm glass
Frequency (Hz)
dB Rw (C;Ctr)
125 250 500 1000 2000 4000
27 30 39 47 47 46 46 (-2;-5)
4.9. For all other living spaces, the following glazing specification has been proposed. This is likely to
achieve an indoor ambient level of less than 35 dB LAeq,T in all residential areas.
Required Living Area Glazing Acoustic Performance

Using 13.52mm lam – 16mm gap – 6mm glass
Frequency (Hz)
dB Rw (C;Ctr)
125 250 500 1000 2000 4000
27 24 31 39 43 42 40 (-3;-7)
4.10. Acoustic performance will be severely diminished when windows are open, therefore adequate
ventilation will be provided via mechanical means. No untreated openings for building services will
be present in the façade.
4.11. To meet the recommended internal noise level targets stated above, the 300mm thick Super Eco
Block façade construction will be required to achieve a minimum sound insulation performance of
45 dB Rw+Ctr. Prior to installation the acoustic performance of all façade elements should be
verified via laboratory test data acquired in accordance with international standards and guidance.

5. Structural
Structural Slabs
5.1. Sub Plot 2 will be a mid-rise building of 39m in height. There will be 1 basement, 9 floors and roof.
Structural slabs on typical floors will be minimum 240mm thick post-tension slabs. The concrete
will have a specified density of 2,400 kg/m3. This construction will be sufficient to achieve the
minimum design criteria requirements; to suitably control the majority of airborne noise
transmission between vertically adjacent occupied spaces; and for the efficient functioning of
equipment vibration isolators within MEP rooms.
5.2. A heavy slab alone, however, is not necessarily sufficient to control impact noise and structure-
borne noise sources which travel easily through solid concrete. All rotating equipment in the
building will also require vibration isolation. These issues are discussed later in the report.
Core Walls
5.3. Core walls and elevator wall constructions will be poured-in-place concrete. Concrete core walls
are the best possible wall construction for sound separation and minimising vibration. This does
not preclude structure-borne noise from transmitting, however, so precautions against transmission
of elevator rail noise will still apply. This issue is discussed in more detail later in the report.
Expansion Joints
5.4. Expansion joints will be installed at regular intervals throughout the building to safely absorb the
heat-induced expansion and contraction of construction materials; to absorb vibration; to hold parts
together; or to allow movement due to ground settlement (and in some regions earthquakes).
5.5. We have reviewed the location of expansion joints and we do not expect any problems or concerns.

6. Architectural
Adjacency Considerations
6.1. The building has been thoughtfully designed from an acoustics perspective, however to ensure
residential amenity is fully protected a number of instances requiring acoustic design input were
flagged-up at Schematic Design stage. These included:
• Basement – Plant Rooms;

• Ground Floor – Apartments to Garbage Room;
• Multiple Floors – Apartments to Service Room;
• Multiple Floors – Apartments to Stairwells;
• Multiple Floors – Apartments to Service Risers;
• Multiple Floors – Apartments to Elevators;
• All Floors – Unipod Bathrooms.
6.2. We have carried out a detailed review of the Tender Design drawings and discussed individual
instances with the design team. The following have been understood:
• An independent wall lining with single layer 15mm gypsum board has been incorporated in the
design of the partitions separating apartments elevator shafts on the habitable side of the
partition. This will aid in suitably mitigate against the majority of airborne noise events (i.e.
elevator pass-bys, garbage trolleys movements). The detail below shows the design intent of
wall Type WL-09.
Elevator Wall Lining in Apartments

• No provision for installing acoustically absorptive treatment within the garbage room has been
made.
• The demising walls separating apartments and stairwells will be 200mm solid dense concrete
walls. This construction is expected to be exceed the minimum 50dB Rw rating indicated by
the Aldar design guidelines.
• Service risers within the apartments will be constructed from 100mm aerated concrete blocks
(density: 576 kg/m3). This construction is expected to achieve below the recommended rating,
however it is understood that these service risers will not contain any noisy equipment. This
can therefore be considered acceptable. Service shafts contain plumbing or MEP equipment,
will utilise 100mm hollow concrete blocks with minimum density 1,750 kg/m3.
• The Unipod external wall construction will be a layer of 12.5mm gypsum board each side of a
metal stud. The acoustic performance of this construction falls just below the recommended
rating of 40dB Rw for internal walls. However it is understood that, in the instances where two
Unipods are located adjacent to each other, a gap will be left between the two constructions.
This is an acceptable construction. When the Unipods are located back to back in adjacent
apartments, a 200mm thick solid block wall (density: 1840kg/m3) will be constructed in between
the two bathrooms. This construction can be considered acceptable to achieve the required
sound insulation performance.
Partition Constructions & Degrees of Privacy

6.3. The table below outlines the partition constructions understood to be used in the development that
are not structural walls. Following a detailed review of the Tender Drawings the required Aldar
acoustic performance criteria are expected to be achieved.
6.4. Please note that all acoustically rated walls must be constructed full height to achieve the desired
acoustic ratings.
Internal Wall Constructions Proposed within the Development
Location Construction Expected Acoustic Rating
WL-02
200mm thick dense solid block (1840
kg/m3 minimum density), 15mm 50 dB Rw
Demising walls
cement/sand plaster on both sides
(10 kg/m2 minimum mass per unit
area)
Internal partitions
WL-03
Service Risers 36 dB Rw
100mm thick aerated concrete block
(for electrical
(minimum density 576 kg/m3)
equipment only)
WL-05
36 dB Rw
Unipod Walls 12.5mm plasterboard on each side of
a metal C stud.
Structural Wall 300mm solid concrete In excess of 50 dB Rw
WL-09
Corridor Walls 200mm thick hollow block (1,375 50 dB Rw
kg/m3 minimum density)

6.5. The wall schedule and wall types drawings in the architectural package in the Tender release
correctly show the build-ups and locations of acoustically rated partitions. Drawing numbers below.
YAS-IB-ATK-AR-12-E1-DR-128017 128017 WALL TYPES SCHEDULE

WALL TYPES - GROUND
YAS-IB-ATK-AR-12-E1-DR-129000 129000
FLOOR
YAS-IB-ATK-AR-12-E1-DR-129001 129001 WALL TYPES - FIRST FLOOR
WALL TYPES - TYPICAL
YAS-IB-ATK-AR-12-E1-DR-129002 129002
FLOOR
WALL TYPES - BASEMENT
YAS-IB-ATK-AR-12-E1-DR-129003 129003
PART 1
WALL TYPES - BASEMENT
YAS-IB-ATK-AR-12-E1-DR-129004 129004
PART 2
YAS-IB-ATK-AR-12-E1-DR-129005 129005 WALL TYPES - ROOF PLAN
Partition Construction Detailing

6.6. All partitions must be acoustically sealed. The following are examples of the application details for
acoustically sealed partitions.
• All masonry blocks must extend to the full length and height of the wall;
• Ensure that all masonry joints are completely filled and sealed with mortar;
• Ensure block walls have narrow perpends;
• External cavity walls should be stopped with a flexible closer at the junction with a separating
wall, unless the cavity is fully filled with mineral wool/quilt;
• Electrical sockets for adjacent rooms are to be positioned minimum 60cm apart;
• Provide continuous acoustic (non-hardening) caulking beads on each side of the top of the
partition. Between the caulking on each side, pack space with fiberglass batt insulation;
• Acoustic caulking should be used to close gaps between service outlets (electrical, telephone,
data, etc.) and drywall;
• Penetrations through the partitions (ducts, pipes, conduit, cable trays, etc.) will be handled per
the typical details provided in the architectural package.
6.7. Block partition constructions must be acoustically sealed at the termination conditions (vertically
and horizontally). To maintain an acoustic seal, compressible filler or insulation and acoustic
sealant are to be provided at the termination condition. Sketch details illustrating this and other
conditions described above are provided in Appendix C.
General Acoustic Detailing Considerations

6.8. The on-site sound insulation performance of an internal partition wall or floor construction is
typically lower than that measured within a purpose-built testing facility. This is often due to the
presence of flanking sound transmission – i.e. sound travelling between spaces via structures other
than the party wall or floor. Flanking sound transmission represents an important design
consideration in hospitality and residential developments. Flanking sound transmission is
commonly reduced through structural breaks and the use of elements such as wall linings, floating
floors, solid suspended ceilings and, in the case of impact sound insulation, the introduction of a
resilient floor covering.
6.9. The techniques available for increasing the airborne sound insulation performance of a wall or floor
typically obey a law of diminishing returns. For example, the performance of a plasterboard wall is
only improved by 3 dB to 5 dB for each doubling of mass or density. Employing double leaf
constructions (e.g. independent plasterboard linings on masonry walls) goes some way to alleviate
this issue although flanking sound transmission and build quality typically represent the limiting
factors when high levels of performance are required (i.e. > 55 dB Rw). Achieving an increase of
5 dB in the acoustic performance of a 35 dB Rw wall is therefore considerably more practicable
than realizing a 5 dB improvement for a wall that already exhibits a performance of 55 dB Rw, since
heavy wall and ceiling linings will be required for the latter.

6.10. Quality of workmanship is another factor that can significantly influence the level of sound insulation
performance achieved in a completed development. Even minor deviations from the specification,
like failing to completely isolate the perimeter of a floating floor from surrounding walls, can severely
reduce the acoustic performance. Furthermore, research has demonstrated that when a sample
of identical walls or floors are constructed under expert supervision and tested for sound insulation,
the measured levels of performance tend to follow a symmetrical distribution around a central
value. However, under normal site conditions the acoustic performance of a sample of identically
constructed walls or floors will also follow a distribution, albeit skewed to the low side of the mean
value. In real terms these factors make it imperative to design partition walls and floors with an
inherent safety margin – typically at least 3 dB above the level of performance stated in the
performance specification.
Flanking via Façade

6.11. Window mullions are often the weak link for sound transmission between apartments in buildings
with glass curtain walls. It is the junctions of separating walls and floors that will often be the weak
link in terms sound transmission via common mullions and transoms.
6.12. At Yas Zone 1B there are no common mullions or transoms spanning between adjacent spaces,
hence flanking noise transmission via these junctions is not a cause for concern.
Impact Sound Isolation

6.13. To control the level of impact noise (footfall etc.) transmission a minimum impact sound insulation
value of 62 dB L’nw +C1 (IIC 50) is required by Aldar between vertically adjacent occupied spaces.
We understand however that the Client’s preference is now to omit the resilient underlayment.
6.14. A floor underlayment typically sits between the structural slab and the levelling screed. Including
the resilient layer beneath all hard floor surfaces would provide a useful structural break within the
floor build-up, thereby reducing the effects of heel drop, chair scrapes etc. from the vertically
adjacent apartment above. Omission of the underlayment could lead to complaints from residents
due to structure borne sound travelling into apartments below.
Doors
6.15. The main factors determining the sound insulation of a door are the mass of the door and the gaps
around the edges, usually the latter are critical. For good sound insulation, the door should form
airtight joints with the frame when closed, and the joints between frame and wall should be sealed.
A threshold seal is essential and even keyhole covers should be specified in critical situations.
6.16. Single door sets providing a sound insulation value greater than 35 dB R w are specialist products
and would normally be shipped as a single complete unit.
6.17. To assist in reducing noise transmission from corridors (voices, heel drop etc.) through doors into
apartments, Aldar require a minimum 25 dB D nT,w + Ctr rating. A sample entrance door specification
to achieve this rating is provided in the table below.
Apartment Entrance Door Specification
Location Comment
Solid timber, 44mm thick, minimum mass per unit area
Door
27kg/m2
Jamb and Head Low profile neoprene bubble seal.
Frame Recommended to be solid wood
Bottom Automatic drop seal; surface mounted or mortised

Flat solid threshold; metal, wood, or marble are all
Threshold
acceptable.
Mechanical Room Doors
6.18. To help reduce the level of noise break-out from mechanical rooms Aldar require a minimum 30dB
Rw acoustic rating. A sample entrance door specification to achieve this rating is provided in the
table below.
Mechanical Room Door-Set Specification
Location Comment
Door & Frame (single unit) 16 gauge door & frame; Vertically stiffened with
insulation fill; welded construction.
Jamb and Head Magnetic seal.

Bottom High performance automatic drop seal (if adjacent to
noise sensitive space); surface mounted to close to
acoustical saddle.
Frame saddle Neoprene bubble gasketed saddle.
Interior Finishes
6.19. Reverberation is the continuation of sound in an enclosed space after the initial sound source has
ended. Reverberation Time (RT60) is the time in seconds that sound takes to decay 60dB from its
original level and is typically stated for the 500Hz octave band frequency – where human speech
is concentrated. Decay times in other frequencies are important and should be considered as well.
6.20. Generally speaking, the larger the amount of hard and reflective surfaces within a space, the longer
a sound will reverberate. Longer reverberation times will interfere with speech intelligibility,
increase background noise and create a less comfortable aural environment.
6.21. The enclosed public spaces within Sub-Plot 2 will have mainly hard and acoustically reflective
finishes. The spaces will have a light and airy feel and so a degree of reverberation is to be
expected. Lobbies have been designed to be transient spaces hence we do not envisage any
acoustical concerns with the proposed selection of finishes.
6.22. Although the Aldar guidelines do not include requirements for reverberation control within public
areas, it has been recommended to include provision for acoustically absorptive treatment within
public corridors leading to apartments to prevent reverberant sound built-up.
6.23. We would recommend to install an area equal or greater than the floor area of the corridors with a
Class C absorber (as defined in BS EN ISO 11654:1997) 1. A suitable absorber would typically be
a standard lay-in grid suspended ceiling containing fibrous ‘acoustic’ tiles (e.g. Ecophon Focus).
1
As per Approved Document E of the UK Building Regulations 2010

7. MEP Systems
7.1. This section provides a summary of mechanical noise and vibration control approaches for the
project following a review of mechanical, electrical and plumbing design drawings dated July 2017.
7.2. At the time of report production many of the mechanical system designs were not in a suitable level
for our review. The drawings provided having a general lack of detail such as ‘floating’ ducts, units
sitting in isolation, rooms not being served, and equipment not being labelled.
7.3. The selected Contractor must complete an acoustic review of all systems (FCU’s are very
important) in accordance with the specifications so the appropriate attenuators are selected and
the stipulated internal noise design criteria will be achieved. A sample sound attenuator
specification has been provided in Appendix D.
7.4. Please note, during the final equipment selection process the stated manufacturer noise data for
all mechanical equipment must be verified by the contractor using independent laboratory test data.
External Amenity Noise Criteria

7.5. The target criteria for noise at external amenity areas (i.e. balconies, terraces, outdoor swimming
pool etc.) is proposed as 50 dB LAeqT, with an upper limit of 55 dB LAeqT, in line with the guidance
provided in BS 8233: 2014.
7.6. The design target will be exceeded whenever an aircraft passes overhead, however there is
nothing we can do to reduce this exceedance during fly-bys.
7.7. The transfer of noise from basement building service rooms to nearby amenity areas e.g. balconies
via louvered shafts should be controlled through the provision appropriate attenuation to
atmospheric connections of all noisy plant terminating at air plenums. It is noted that in-duct
attenuators are proposed. For the purposes of engaging with manufacturers for selection of
suitable attenuators, a target of NR 71 should be applied at each louvre. Where multiple
connections terminate at the louvre, this target should be reduced logarithmically (i.e. NR Target -
10 x log10 (n); where n = number of terminations).
Mechanical & Plant Rooms

7.8. Sub Plot 2 will be served by chilled water from the Tabreed local district cooling network via a
dedicated chilled water infrastructure corridor. There will be a single energy transfer station in the
basement which will house multiple-plate heat exchangers. The other major pieces of potentially
noisy mechanical equipment in the building will be limited to AHU’s and pumps. The emergency
generator will be located in a separate building.
Air Handling Units

7.9. For design purposes, the distance between air handling units and fresh air handling unit
(AHU/FAHU) fans and the nearest occupied space should be the first consideration. With duct
routing or space layouts that increase the duct length between the noise generating fan and the
nearest sensitive spaces, most problems are avoided entirely. Of course it is not always possible
to avoid or postpone duct penetrations into sensitive spaces, but this should be the preferred
approach.
7.10. Fan and turbulence noise “breaking out” of sheet metal ductwork is the major noise control
challenge in most cases, and is usually heard as a low-frequency rumbling in the vicinity of the
noise sensitive space near the air handling unit or its associated return fan. The degree to which
sound “breaks out” of the sheet metal ductwork is governed primarily by:
• Layout of ductwork nearby the AHU;

• Airflow, static pressure, and fan wheel type;

• Aerodynamic design of duct fittings;
• Distance between the AHU and nearest noise sensitive space, following the duct.
7.11. Typically the quality and reliability of acoustic lining in shop fabricated or field fabricated ductwork
in the Middle East is questionable. It is also true that acoustically lined ductwork exposed to the
elements prior to installation may be ruined. As delamination of internal duct liner is extremely
disruptive and expensive to fix, this may well outweigh the acoustic benefit.
7.12. Furthermore, AHU/FAHU’s serving acoustically sensitive spaces are recommended to include the
following noise and vibration control considerations:
• Select the largest, lowest speed, "quietest" fans possible within mechanical and physical
constraints. A plug/plenum type fan selection is recommended if possible.
• Provide 50 to 100mm thick double-wall perforated casing panels to minimise radiated noise.
Plastic liner behind the perforated metal can be used if desired for reasons other than noise
control.
• Variable speed to ensure the lowest sound output at any given time.
7.13. All AHU/FAHU units must be fully vibration isolated for the structure. This can be achieved by:
• Either mounting the units on 100mm deep housekeeping pad supported by spring type
isolators (see vibration table for guideline static deflection). Should this option be selected, the
manufacturer provided internal deflection spring mounts must be locked down to prevent
oscillation effects.
• Or, mount the units on 100mm deep housekeeping pad supported by 20mm thick neoprene
isolation pads sized for 3mm static deflection. Unlock manufacturer provided internal 50mm
deflection spring mounts for fans. In our experience this is the most common vibration isolation
method for AHU/FAHU’s in the Middle East.
Fan Coil Units

7.14. Apartments will use individual Fan Coil Units (FCU’s) for temperature control. FCU’s will be located
above support spaces such as closets and bathrooms and are expected to have sufficient duct run
between the unit and living spaces, this will provide sufficient noise control in most cases. Should
units be located in the entrance ceiling of the space, or have only a short length of ductwork, noise
from these units could be sufficiently tonal that it creates disturbances from time to time.
7.15. In our experience, the best option is to select these units to provide sufficient cooling load at
medium or low speed fan operation. We also recommend that each FCU have at least 3-4 metres
of acoustically lined ductwork on the intake and supply side of the units to allow the fan noise to be
attenuated before entering the living spaces. Once we receive manufacturer’s sound level
information, we will make a detailed review and provide further comments and recommendations.
7.16. Initial recommendations and allowances for the units shall include the following:
• Provide as oversized, low speed units as possible.

• Provide Apartments with variable speed control, thus control over cooling and sound levels.
• Consider manufacturer’s ‘quiet’ packages (quiet fans, enclosures, etc.) where possible.
• Provide 25mm thick acoustically lined ductwork within discharge plenums and for a distance
of 3-4 +/-metres downstream in all supply ductwork. The extent of acoustic duct lining must
be coordinated based on a review of unit types (with sound data) and room layouts. Note that
adequate lengths of ductwork must exist for success of the above acoustically lined ductwork
approach.
Access Panels
7.17. To minimize noise transmission through the access panel into the space below, a sealed access
panel with recessed gypsum board should be installed underneath e.g. fan coil units.

Pressure Reducing Boxes
7.18. The sizing and selection of pressure reducing boxes should be based on radiated noise
performance in an effort to achieve acoustic design criteria in spaces below the boxes. The
acoustic performance of the units to be used for sizing and selection will be provided in the next
design phase.
7.19. Discharge noise control for pressure reducing boxes/valves can be handled with:
• In-duct acoustic duct lining or,

• Sound attenuators, and/or
• Flexible duct connections to diffuser and linear diffuser plenums.
7.20. Acoustic duct lining and/or minimum 1.5m of lightweight flex are typically the most cost effective
approaches. A typical approach is as follows:
Pressure Reducing Box Discharge Noise Control
Pressure Reducing Box/Valve

Discharge Noise Control Approaches
Space Criterion VAV Boxes Fan Powered Boxes
NR 35/40 Minimum 1.5m of flexible ductwork or Minimum 1.5m of flexible ductwork (up
25mm thick duct lining to 650 +/- l/s);
Flex duct & 1.0m attenuator or 25mm
thick duct lining (over 650 +/- l/s)
Diffusers & Grilles

7.21. Diffusers and grilles typically have NR ratings published by the manufacturer. These ratings are
with perfect air inlet conditions and consider a 10 dB room effect reduction (neither of which is
common). Thus, diffusers and grilles should be selected at least 5 NR points below room design
goals. Cumulative effects must be also considered e.g. 3 NR point increase if influenced by 2
diffusers or longer lengths of linear diffusers.
7.22. Perforated and plaque faced diffusers are extremely sensitive to inlet air velocities profiles. A slight
increase in air flow on one side of the diffuser, due to an elbow at the inlet for example, can cause
the diffuser sound to be well above the published levels. Therefore, perforated and plaque faced
diffusers should be selected 10 NR points below room design goals.
Rooftop Exhaust Fans

7.23. Exhaust fans are recommended to be selected with acoustics in mind – a low speed, mixed-flow
type selection – for life safety purposes. If fans are used for regular ventilation purposes (beyond
emergency smoke operation only) e.g. from the podium kitchen, appropriate noise control
measures will need to be coordinated.
7.24. We provide the following general guidance to minimise audible impact on adjacent spaces:
• Use utility set fans only (no mushroom fans). Select fans for low rpm operation (typically 800
rpm or lower).
• Provide the following minimum ductwork lengths above the roof for fans that penetrate the roof
above residential units, based on fan static pressures of under 2 inches e.g.:
• Under 58 m/s: 3 metres
• 58 m/s to 145 m/s: 4.5 metres
• 145 m/s to 290 m/s: 6 metres

• Over 290 m/s Special Review Necessary
• Provide 50mm thick in-duct acoustic lining for all ductwork on the roof. Kitchen exhausts will
not allow this, and should provide extra length of duct if possible.
Car Park Ventilation

7.25. The basement car park is divided into three zones. Each zone will have its own dedicated supply
fan room and exhaust fan room. Each fan will be variable speed control. Ductwork will be 1.2mm
thick heavy gauge steel which will assist with minimising noise break-out into the car park directly
from the ducts.
7.26. The basement fan rooms will be connected to the external ground floor via a louvered shaft. The
intake and extract points on the ground floor will be integrated within the landscaping. Please refer
to the external amenity noise criteria section for further advice and recommended noise limits for
louvered shaft atmospheric connections.
Cross-Talk through Make-Up and Exhaust Risers

7.27. Cross-talk i.e. sound of voices carrying through ductwork, can be a problem especially where the
supply or exhaust grilles tap directly off the riser with no horizontal duct.
7.28. Acoustic lining is the usual method for controlling cross-talk (such as an acoustically lined duct 1.5
metres long with 12mm thick acoustic lining, preferably with an elbow used at all taps off risers).
However as mentioned earlier, in the Middle East this method is sometimes deemed unacceptable.
The alternative would be to provide upturned sheet-metal boots in the riser as shown below.
Upturned Sheet-metal Boot within Risers
Return Air Transfers

7.29. If the toilet exhausts create a negative pressure we recommend that an undercut opening in the
entrance door not be used as a transfer to the corridor. To maintain the level of sound privacy and
maintain the proper air transfers, we recommend using an acoustically lined air transfer duct with
a minimum of two elbows as shown in the detail below (or use a fully ducted make-up air scheme).
Acoustically Lined Air Transfer Duct with Two Elbows

Garbage Chutes
7.30. To minimize noise/vibration transmission through the structure, the chute support/clamps on all
floors should be mounted on double deflection neoprene-in-shear vibration isolators similar to
Mason Industries Type ND or approved equal, as noted in the figure below. The bottom of the trash
chute should ideally not have any sharp bends. Falling garbage hitting the bottom of the elbow may
create noise that could travel back up the chute.
Garbage Chute Isolation Detail
Pumps
7.31. Primary and secondary pumps should have the following considerations for noise and vibration
control:
• Select the impellers for 85+/- percent of the maximum diameter.

• Provide 450mm long bolt-in spool sections of pipe immediately after/before elbows or reducers
into the pump (suction and discharge side) prior to any valves or pipe fittings. This is to facilitate
the eventual insertion of special flexible connectors should they be needed for noise control
after commissioning.

• Mount pumps on spring supported concrete inertia bases (pipe stanchions must be supported
from the isolated base), as shown below. If there are many pumps in a pump room,
alternatively vibration isolate the entire floor using a proprietary floating floor system.
Pump Isolation Intent
Plumbing
7.32. General noise control guidelines for plumbing are as follows:
• Resilient piping attachments are recommended to isolate supply plumbing from the structure
(refer to Vibration Isolation schedule later in this section). This is particularly important for
plumbing near noise-sensitive spaces.
• Limit pressure at fixtures to 380 kPa (55 psig) to reduce noise generation.
• Pipes and conduit should not pass through sensitive spaces to service other spaces.
• Toilet rooms should be away from sensitive spaces. Do not put plumbing in walls next to or
common with these spaces.
• Specify quiet devices such as quiet-type, flush valves and taps with full-ported nozzles and
non-splash aerators. If toilet rooms are unavoidably next to sensitive spaces, use siphon-jet,
tank-type water closets with adjustable flow valves.
• Install air chambers or shock-absorbing devices to prevent water hammer in lines subject to
abrupt shut-off.
• Sprinkler piping should be routed along corridors with a single airtight penetration into each
room.

7.33. Water velocities in pipework should not exceed the following specifications:
Pipework Water Velocities
Type of Pipework Velocity

Chilled Water Pipework 1.8-2.4 m/s
Condenser Water Pipework 1.8-2.4 m/s
Risers and Droppers 0.9-2.4 m/s
Coils - Cooling 1.0-1.5 m/s
Coils - Heating 1.0-1.5 m/s
Condensers 1.5-2.0 m/s
Pump Discharge Pipework 1.5-2.7 m/s
Pump Suction Pipework 1.2-2.1 m/s
Drain Pipe 1.2-2.1 m/s
Mains Pressure Water Service Pipelines 1.0-2.1 m/s
Gravity flow pipelines from upper level storage 0.1-0.4 m/s
tanks (Top two floors only)
Gravity flow pipelines from upper level storage 1.0-1.5 m/s
tanks (Bottom two floors only)
Toilets above Occupied Spaces

7.34. Within the building toilets and WCs will stack above one another with waste pipes running vertically
in a common riser. Not having toilets/WC over noise sensitive spaces is a sensible design hence
flushing and plumbing noises are not expected to be a cause for concern.
Generators
7.35. The emergency generator for Sub-Plot 2 will be located in a separate building that will have natural
ventilation. The diesel generator will be used for emergency power / life safety purposes only,
therefore noise from regular generator testing is not anticipated to be a major issue with proper
scheduling.
7.36. To minimise noise impact within the building and nearby buildings during testing it is recommended
that the generators be tested during the daytime/weekday hours only (or times deemed appropriate
by building management). The following measures provide our guidance for generators:
• Each generator is to be fully vibration isolated from the structure by mounting on spring type
isolators sized for nominal 25mm static deflection;
• Provide sound attenuators within the generator rooms’ intake and discharge air paths. Sound
attenuators in the 1.5 +/- meter length are typically used in this application. Attenuators to be
sized for a maximum discharge velocity of 4 m/s. Mechanical engineer to review for static
pressure drop consideration;
• Provide a ‘Critical’ grade (25-35 dB(A) reduction) hot exhaust muffler to be connected into the
exhaust air transition duct. The muffler is to be standard barrel or ‘cigar-shaped’ type (space-
saving flat ‘pancake’ type mufflers are typically not effective and should be avoided). Note:
when ordering, these mufflers tend to have a very long lead-time.
• To minimize reverberant noise build-up in the Generator Room, all available/exposed room
walls should be lined with 50mm thick acoustic duct-liner.
7.37. The above must be reviewed and coordinated based on community noise requirements (including
any specific to generator testing or emergency noise requirements) and generator hot gas
discharge and air intake/discharge paths with consideration of potential exposures.

Main Transformers
7.38. To help reduce the “hum” from main high voltage 11KV/400V (1,500kVA) transformers, it is strongly
recommended that transformers be specified and mounted on vibration isolation devices, as
follows:
• Mount the main transformer cores on 50mm deflection spring mounts with double layer noise
isolation neoprene pads.
• If springs are to be provided for internal core, mount the entire transformer on uniformly loaded
2.5mm deflection waffle or ribbed neoprene pads.
• Provide transformers with special core metal for quieter operation. Transformers are to be
specified as 6 dB below National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) ratings.
• Resiliently suspend or mount conduits and/or bus-bar. Flexible and/or expansion sections
within the conduit and/or bus-bar must also be provided. The flexible connection and resilient
hanger application is to be as follows:
• Provide 600mm of flexible conduit connected to the switchgear, and/or provide a bus-bar
expansion coupling. A "rubberized" expansion coupling within the conduit is an acceptable
alternate.
• Suspend conduct and/or bus-bar within the electrical room, but not less than 15 metres
from the equipment, by double-deflection neoprene isolation hangers with a nominal 12mm
deflection.
7.39. Applicable codes and regulations for conduit and bus-bar suspension details are to be verified.
Seismic restrained shall also be reviewed and incorporated as necessary, though must be provided
as not to degrade the noise and vibration isolation of mounts and hangers.
7.40. The above acoustic performance should be added to the appropriate specifications section.
Local Floor Transformers (480V/500 kVA or Less)

7.41. Transformers located within electrical closets on occupied floors are to be resiliently mounted or
suspended with flexible conduit connections.
• Suspended units are to be hung from double deflection neoprene isolation hangers with 12mm
deflection;
• Floor mounted units are to be mounted on double deflection neoprene isolation mounts with
12mm deflection;
• Flexible conduit is to be minimum 450mm long.
Seismic Restraint
7.42. Seismic restraints for internal core and/or entire transformer are to be provided as necessary to
comply with local codes and/or project requirements. Restraints are to be separate of noise and
vibration isolation and shall not degrade isolation efficiency.
Vibration Isolation
7.43. Noise and vibration energy from mechanical equipment could carry through the building structure
and transmit into adjacent spaces. Therefore all vibration/rotating machinery should be isolated
from the structure with some type of a spring and/or neoprene isolators.
7.44. The table below illustrates the typical vibration isolation required for mechanical and electrical
equipment. This table is intended to act as a guide at this stage to assist with the appropriate
selection of isolators.

Recommended Vibration Isolation Requirements
Static
Base Isolator
Deflection
Equipment Types Type Type
(mm)
Fans (including AHU, ERU & FCU)
Floor/Roof Supported Per Mfr (7) Spring
below - 300 rpm (or VFD) 100
301 - 450 rpm 75
451 - 600 rpm 85
601 - 750 rpm 50
751 - 850 rpm 35
851 - greater 25
Suspended Sprg/Neop (above+6)
Condensate Pumps Per Mfr Neoprene 3
Dry coolers, Air-Cooled Condenser, Air- Per Mfr Restrained. 50
Cooled Chillers, Air-Cooled Equipment Spring (1)
Mechanical and Domestic Pumps (8) 50
3HP - greater Conc. Iner. Spring
less than 3HP Steel Neoprene 12
Associated equipment per Mfr. (1) (1)
(assoc. w/ pumps & piping)
Cooling Towers
below - 300 rpm (or VFD) per Mfr. Restr. Spring 100
301 - 500 rpm 75
501 - 800 rpm 50
801 - -greater 25
Hot Water Generators, Boilers per Mfr. Restr. Spring 25
Mechanical and Domestic Piping (3) as req’d
Floor Supported Spring 25
Suspended Sprg/Neop 30
Steam Neoprene 8
Curb Mounted Roof Equip. Spring isolation curb per fans above
Generators(2) per Mfr. Restr. Spring 25
Transformers (Interior Dry Type)
Floor Mounted (4) per Mfr Neoprene 12
Suspended per Mfr Neoprene 12
(1) Double layer noise isolation pads to be provided within spring assembly.
(2) Manufacturer’s standard springs
(3) All water and steam piping within MER, but not less than 20 metres of equipment or pressure
reducing stations, and all piping 100mm and larger within and/or suspended from occupied floor.
(4) Internal isolation for transformer cores complying with the above tabulated isolation type and
ratings are acceptable.
(5) Seismic restraints as required for project are to be separate of vibration isolation devices, and
shall not degrade vibration isolation. Extent and type of seismic restraints by others.
(7) Vibration isolation scheme to consider fan operating force and provide thrust restraint and/or
concrete inertia base in order to limit movement of fan to 7mm at any operating point. Thrust
restraints to have the same deflection as vibration isolation devices.
(8) In-line pumps to be mounted per manufacturer’s recommendations.

8. Vertical Transportation
Electric Traction Elevators
8.1. It is understood that all passenger elevators within the development will be Machine Room-less
(MRL).
8.2. When operating per plans and specifications, the Aldar standards state elevator equipment should
not generate noise levels in excess of NR 30 in bedrooms and NR 35 in living spaces. We
recommend that noise emissions do not include tonal elements. For the purpose of this report, a
pure tone shall be defined as a sound level in any one-third-octave band, which is greater than 5
dB above both adjacent one-third-octave bands, in the range 45 to 16,000 Hz.
8.3. All traction elevator equipment should conform to the following requirements for noise and vibration
control:
• The hoist and sheaves (primary and secondary/deflector) are to be mounted to a single unitized
structural base which is resiliently isolated from the building structure. The resilient mounts
supporting the base shall be the most effective isolation system provided by the elevator
manufacturer, but should typically not be less than 25mm effective thickness (either single
thickness or layered) neoprene or natural rubber pads and shall provide 2.5mm static
deflection (or 10% strain) under installed loading conditions. Final pad thickness decided by
the elevator manufacturer based on their type of machine, weight of machine, placing of
machine etc.
• Mount the motor generators on the most effective isolation system available from the elevator
manufacturer, but typically not less than neoprene-in-shear double deflection mounts with
minimum 13mm static deflection. Final pad thickness decided by the elevator manufacturer
based on their type of machine, weight of machine, placing of machine etc.
• Mount control unit(s) on the most effective isolation system available from the elevator
manufacturer, such as minimum 19mm thick ribbed or waffled neoprene pads uniformly loaded
to achieve 2.5mm deflection (e.g., Mason Industries type 'Super W', 50 durometer pads
uniformly loaded at 310 kPa). Provide a top bearing plate where necessary to uniformly
distribute load. Final type / size / material of isolation pads will be decided by the elevator
manufacturer based of the weight and size of controllers.
• Provide an electrical filter/reactor between electric controls and the hoist motor. Mount the
reactor on the most effective isolation provided by the manufacturer, but not less than 19mm
thick ribbed or waffled neoprene pads uniformly loaded to achieve 2.5mm deflection.
• All bolts through isolation pads shall use resilient washers and bushings, with a minimum wall
thickness of 6mm, such there is no rigid contact between the isolated base and the securing
bolt.
• Double-roped systems shall terminate ropes on the unitized resiliently mounted base of the
machine.
• Ropes shall in no case terminate at un-isolated connections to the building structure.
• The rollers which guide cars and counterweights along the guide rails shall have a minimum
diameter of 150mm and shall have solid neoprene or rubber tires. Tensioned steel springs
shall be incorporated to maintain a constant force between the rollers and the guide rails. No
part of the elevator mechanism shall have sliding contact with rails.
• Braking action at the hoist shall be gradual, using fluid damping, so that the application of the
brakes does not generate an impact when the brake shoes contact the drum. Set by local
design Code requirements.
• Guide rails and rollers are to be installed to the most exacting vertical alignment tolerances
possible, but no greater than 1.14mm per 30 meter distance. Set using local design Code
requirements.
• The maximum noise level within the lift car during operation shall be 55 dB(A). The Vertical
Transportation – Elevator Specifications document produced by RBA Consultants, dated
19/06/2017, states that the car interior noise levels during operation shall not exceed 52dBA

under all conditions of travel, which can be considered acceptable. Moreover, the same
document specified that during door operation the noise shall not exceed 55dB(A).
8.4. Furthermore, lift call bells and lobby noise levels shall be controlled so as not to be heard within
apartments. It is standard practice that when a lift arrives at a floor a bell or auditory call signal is
activated to let the waiting passenger know of the lifts arrival. This type of lift call system can be
highly annoying for apartments located near the lifts if audible, therefore auditory lift call systems
must be low in volume and dull in nature.
END OF REPORT

Appendix A. Glossary of Acoustic
Terminology
A-Weighting
Normal hearing covers the frequency range from about 20Hz to 20kHz but sensitivity is greatest between
about 500Hz and 8kHz. The ‘A-Weighting’ is an electronic filters network incorporated in sound level metres
which approximately corresponds to the frequency response of the ear. The unit of measurement of A-
weighted sound level is dB(A).
Decibel, dB
A sound wave is a small fluctuation of atmospheric pressure. The human ear responds to these variations in
pressure, producing the sensation of hearing. The ear can detect a very wide range of pressure variations.
In order to cope with this wide range of pressure variations, a logarithmic scale is used to convert the values
into manageable numbers. Although it might seem unusual to use a logarithmic scale to measure a physical
phenomenon, it has been found that human hearing also responds to sound in an approximately logarithmic
fashion. The dB (decibel) is the logarithmic unit used to describe sound (or noise) levels. The usual range
of sound pressure levels is from 0 dB (threshold of hearing) to 120 dB (threshold of pain).
Due to the logarithmic nature of decibels, when two noises of the same level are combined together, the total
noise level is (under normal circumstances) 3 dB(A) higher than each of the individual noise levels e.g. 60
dB(A) plus 60 dB(A) = 63dB(A). In terms of perceived 'loudness', a 3 dB(A) variation in noise level is a
relatively small (but nevertheless just noticeable) change. An increase in noise level of 10 dB(A) generally
corresponds to a doubling of perceived loudness. Likewise, a reduction in noise level of 10 dB(A) generally
corresponds to a halving of perceived loudness.
Octave and Third Octave Bands

The human ear is sensitive to sound over a range of approximately 20Hz to 20kHz, and is generally more
sensitive to medium and high frequencies than to low frequencies. In order to define the frequency content
of a noise, the spectrum is divided into frequency bands, and the sound pressure level is measured in each
band. The most commonly used frequency bands are octave bands, in which the mid frequency of each
band is twice that of the band below it. (For instance the octave bands above and below the 500Hz octave
band are 1kHz and 250Hz respectively). For finer analysis, each octave band may be split into three one-
third octave bands or in some cases, fine frequency bands.
Maximum A-Weighted Noise Level, LAFmax

The highest single noise event measured over the duration of a survey. Usually associated with a sudden
increase in noise such as a train or aircraft passing.
Equivalent Continuous A-Weighted Noise Level, LAeq

The equivalent continuous noise level is a single figure noise level that represents the same acoustic energy
over a defined period of time as the time varying signal. The ‘A’ in the LAeq parameter means that the noise
level has been weighted so that it is akin to the subjective noise level that an average person would hear.
Weighted Sound Reduction Index, RW

The weighted sound reduction index of a partition. Gives a single number value based on the performance
of a partition to reduce noise between two rooms across a set range of frequencies (100 Hz to 3150 Hz) The
calculated level is adjusted for the effects of room reverberation and background noise. The calculation
takes into account the room and partition size. (ISO 140-3 1998/ISO 717-1:1997).

Spectrum Adaption Term, Ctr
The Ctr is a spectrum adaption term which is typically negative and weights the performance of a given
construction to place more emphasis on low frequency performance. Hence structures that are better at low
frequencies e.g. heavy masonry walls, tend to produce better results.
Weighted Standardized Impact Sound Pressure Level, L’nTW

The weighted standardized impact sound pressure level is used to determine the on-site performance of a
floor or ceiling to control impact sound being transmitted from a tapping machine. The level is adjusted for
the background noise and room reverberation. The calculation assumes a standard room and partition size.
(ISO 140-7 1998/ISO 717-2:1997).
Noise Rating, NR
Noise Rating values refer to a set of pre-defined curves which specify noise levels in individual octave
bands. The NR value is a single figure descriptor that was developed to assess acoustic comfort in buildings
and is now commonly used to specify building services noise limits. The lower the NR rating, the lower the
noise levels from building services.
Noise Reduction Coefficient, NRC

The Noise Reduction Coefficient is a measure of sound absorbed by a material. The single number
designation represents the average of the sound absorption coefficients of a material at four predetermined
frequencies, namely 250 Hz, 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, and 2000Hz rounded to the nearest 0.05. An NRC of 0
indicates perfect reflection; an NRC of 1 indicates perfect absorption.
Reverberation Time, RT
The RT is defined as the time taken for an impulsive sound to die away to one thousandth of its original
sound pressure level - that is, to decrease by 60dB. The sound waves are reflected many times from each
surface in the room, and are partly reduced at each reflection, the amount of reduction depending on the
acoustic absorption of the surface. Acoustic absorption is measurable and is defined by a coefficient
between 0 (totally reflective) and 1 (totally absorbent) at each frequency. Although an anomaly in the
standard laboratory test procedure can lead to absorption coefficients higher than 1, this is not achievable in
real installations.

Appendix B. Flanking Details General
Principles (Design Intent
Only)
B.1. Example Service Penetration Details
Cable Tray Penetration (Single Partition)

Cable Tray Penetration (Double Partition)

Duct / Pipe Penetration (Single Partition)

Duct / Pipe Penetration (Double Partition)

Example Masonry Partition Head Detail

Example Junction Detail between Internal & External Partitions

Appendix C. Sample Specifications
Sound Attenuator Specification
Part 1.00 – General

A. This section describes sound attenuators.
Part 2.00 – Submittals

B. Submit for review:
1. Manufacturer’s product data for all products.
2. Sound Attenuators: Provide acoustical and aerodynamic performance tested in accordance with
ASTM E477 "Standard Method of Testing Duct Liner Materials and Prefabricated Silencers for
Acoustical and Airflow Performance". Test data of static pressure drop, dynamic net insertion
loss ratings and self-generated noise sound power levels of factory-built sound attenuators. Base
certification data for pressure drop and insertion loss on tests of the same attenuator for both
measurements.
Part 3.00 – Products

C. Acceptable manufacturers, subject to compliance with requirements:
1. Industrial Acoustics Co. (IAC)
2. Vibro-Acoustics
3. Dynasonics
4. Commercial Acoustics
5. Kinetics Noise Control
6. Semco
7. McGill AirSilence LLC
8. Price Industries
Part 4.00 – Design Criteria

D. All products, unless noted otherwise, shall have a composite fire and smoke rating, when tested in
accordance with ASTM E84, test procedures, not to exceed Flame Spread of 25 and Smoke
Developed of 50.
Part 5.00 – All Sound Attenuators

E. Sound attenuators shall be factory-fabricated of none-combustible materials, and be a manufacturer's
standard product.
Part 6.00 – Construction of Rectangular Sound Attenuators

F. Sound attenuators shall be factory-fabricated of galvanized steel.
G. Casing: Outer casing of No. 22 gauge galvanized steel with lock-formed seams filled with mastic.
Interior Liner of No. 26 gauge perforated galvanized steel.
H. Filler Material: Inorganic mineral or glass fiber of a density sufficient to obtain the specified acoustical
performance and be packed under at least 5 percent compression to eliminate voids. Material shall
be inert, vermin-proof and moisture-proof.

I. The combustion rating for the acoustical fill material shall be not less than the following when tested
in accordance with ASTM E 84:
1. Flame Spread Classification of 20.
2. Smoke Developed Rating 20.
Part 7.00 – Execution

J. Installation of sound attenuators:
1. Install sound attenuators in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations, in order not to
compromise attenuator performance and/or increase air pressure drop.
2. Install attenuators with flanges or connection hardware compatible with the associated single-wall
or double-wall ductwork. Seal joint connections to prevent air leakage with embedded fabric tape
type sealant in accordance with SECTION 233113.
3. Multiple Sound Attenuators: Where multiple sound attenuators are grouped together in parallel
within a duct system or air handling unit, seal them airtight with EC-800 sealant by 3M Company,
or Sika "Sikaflex 1A."
4. Duct Transitions: Provide gradual transition fittings between attenuators and connecting ductwork
where attenuators are of a different size than the ductwork.
5. Insulation: Externally insulate sound attenuators to match adjacent ductwork insulation.
6. Sound attenuators to be provided as outlined in the schedule.

Atkins Acoustics, Noise & Vibration
Chadwick House
Birchwood Park
Warrington
WA3 6AE
simon.moyes@atkinsglobal.com
+44 (0)1925 238000
© Atkins Ltd except where stated otherwise.
The Atkins logo, ‘Carbon Critical Design’ and the strapline

‘Plan Design Enable’ are trademarks of Atkins Ltd.

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Yas Zone 1B

Detailed Design Acoustics Report

Aldar Properties PJSC

This document has 43 pages including the cover.

Client WS Atkins & Partners Overseas

Project Yas Zone 1B – Sub-Plot 2

Document title Detailed Design Report

Job no. 5145326

Atkins Detailed Design Report | Rev 3 | 8 March 2018 | 5145326 2

Atkins Detailed Design Report | Rev 3 | 8 March 2018 | 5145326 3

Atkins Detailed Design Report | Rev 3 | 8 March 2018 | 5145326 4

Yas Zone 1B – Plot 1

Sub Plot 1 & Sub Plot 2:

• Surface and basement car parking;

• Surface and basement car parking;

• Community and Amenities Facility;

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External Noise Intrusion

Aldar Maximum Limits due to External Noise Intrusion (BRONZE)

Aldar Minimum Requirements for Airborne Sound Insulation (BRONZE)

Building Element Minimum Airborne Sound Insulation

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Background Noise Levels

Aldar Maximum Noise Levels for Background Noise (BRONZE)

Maximum Background Noise Equivalent Noise Rating

External Amenity Noise Criteria

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Noise Levels from Elevators

Impact Sound Isolation

Aldar Minimum Requirements for Impact Sound Transmission (BRONZE)

Floor Minimum Impact Sound Insulation

Aldar Minimum Requirements for Sound Insulation of Services in Ceilings (BRONZE)

Building Element Minimum Airborne Sound Insulation

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Noise from Wind and Thermal Movement

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Sound Absorption and Distribution

• The sealing of air spaces where specified.

Interfaces between Building Elements

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Making Good of Holes

• When the building element is exposed to sounds or vibrations;

• When movements (within design tolerances) occur in structures to a fixed building

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Plot 1 Baseline Noise Conditions

Metric Frequency (Hz) dB(A)

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Required Living Area Glazing Acoustic Performance

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• Basement – Plant Rooms;

Elevator Wall Lining in Apartments

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Partition Constructions & Degrees of Privacy

Internal Wall Constructions Proposed within the Development

Location Construction Expected Acoustic Rating

Structural Wall 300mm solid concrete In excess of 50 dB Rw

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YAS-IB-ATK-AR-12-E1-DR-128017 128017 WALL TYPES SCHEDULE

Partition Construction Detailing

General Acoustic Detailing Considerations

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