Armacell®, a leader in foam technology, has introduced a new foam tape called ArmaComfort® MDT to help reduce sound transmission in commercial buildings. (MTD stands for Mechanical Thermal Decoupling) It is a simple “peel and stick” solution with some very interesting properties.
How Does it Work?
Armacell has blended NBR (nitrile butadiene rubber) with PVC (polyvinyl chloride) to create a 3.0-4.0 lb /cubic foot density foam that has been laminated with a double coated scrim tape that is easy to apply. When applied to metal studs used in conventional wall assemblies, it decouples and limits structural sound from passing through the framing; particularly in mid-level to high frequencies.
What is an STC Rating?
Sound transmssion class (STC) is a numerical rating indicating the approximate reduction in noise (measured in decibels) that an assembly can provide.
To put this STC value of 51 in perspective, loud sounds can be faintly heard. These values are relative to ambient noise that might be present and other factors but show that a reasonably effective attenuation is taking place in a common wall assembly.
| STC | What Can Be Heard |
| 25 | Normal speech can be understood |
| 30 | Loud speech can be understood |
| 35 | Loud speech audible but not intelligible |
| 40 | Loud speech audible as a murmur |
| 45 | Loud speech heard but not audible |
| 50 | Loud sounds faintly heard |
| 60+ | Good soundproofing; most sounds do not disturb neighboring residents |
Physical Properties
| xProperty | Unit | Test Method | Values |
| Compression Deflection (25%) | psi | ASTM D 1056 | 1.5 – 3.5 |
| Tensile | psi | ASTM D 1056 412 | 35 min. |
| Elongation | % | ASTM D 1056 412 | 125 min. |
| Flame and Smoke | – | ASTM E84 | Pass Class B |
Installation is very straightforward. First, remove the paper release liner to expose the adhesive and cover the entire top and bottom plates first. This will help with having to make fewer cuts using your utility knife.
Then cover the verticals. The entire framing system should be covered before applying he drywall. If a splice needs to be made, a simple butt spliced should be used. Do not overlap. Apply drywall over taped framing using minimum 1-5/8” screws. Refer to the pictogram below:
MTD Advantages
Traditionally, resilient channel installed perpendicular to the vertical studs or isolation clips have been the go-to methods for noise abatement. The MTD tape is a simple, easy to use product.
- Installs quickly
- Improves STC rating
- Works on curved walls
- Provides an air seal to the studs
- UL classified and cUL certified
- Made in the USA
Want to know more about ArmaComfort MTD? Contact Rick Alexander at ralexander@tombrowninc.com today.
