ROCA Industry is now launching Decibel Plus – a brand new glass wall system developed to meet the market's increased sound absorbing requirements. With better sound absorbtion, improved adjustability and greater flexibility in the choice of fittings, the system is perfect for projects where sound rating is no longer a "nice to have" – but a basic requirement.
“The background to the initiative is simple: Sound requirements in buildings have changed dramatically over the last 10–15 years,” says Klas Björkman, sales rep in ROCA Industry's glass segment.
Stricter requirements drive development
Decibel Plus is primarily a response to a market change. 15 years ago, 10-12 mm glass was sufficient. Today, some projects require significantly more, both technically and functionally.
“We are increasingly receiving requests where the project requirements are higher than what the current system meets,” says Klas, who recently presented the system to Norwegian customers and partners.
In Norway in particular, sound requirements have been high for a long time, but the development is also clearly visible in the other markets. Tighter buildings, increased requirements in public environments and a greater focus on the work environment are driving the need for better sound performance in glazed areas and door solutions.
It was against this background that Decibel Plus took shape.
It was against this background that Decibel Plus took shape.
New frame for higher sound conditions
Decibel Plus is not just an update of an existing system – but a newly developed glass wall system. The system is dimensioned for thicker glass thicknesses, such as 12.76–16.76 mm laminated glass, which creates completely different acoustic conditions than previous solutions.By enabling thicker, heavier and more sound-absorbing glass, the system can be used in projects where traditional glazed door sections have previously had difficulty meeting the required sound requirements.
At the same time, ROCA Industry's technicians have adapted the design to meet practical requirements in assembly and operation.
“The main challenge in projects like this is to achieve tolerances in profiles with different surface treatments and to design stop strips that form a good compromise between sound insulation and the force required to close and lock the door,” says Alexander Grinde, who is responsible for ROCA Industry's R&D department.
Alexander explains that a frameless pure glass door has the option of only a single seal - unlike a framed door that can have three to four smaller sealing strips. He adds that the Decibel Plus project also involved designing products that combine rational manufacturing with several other parameters:
“High quality, affordability, design and not least customer benefit in the form of an easy final assembly for the customer. And I think we have succeeded,” he says with a smile.
“High quality, affordability, design and not least customer benefit in the form of an easy final assembly for the customer. And I think we have succeeded,” he says with a smile.
Adjustability and assembly in focus
In addition to improved sound performance, ROCA Industry has developed Decibel Plus with a clear focus on facilitating assembly and allowing more adjustment options.Adjustable hinges
Decibel Plus comes with completely newly developed adjustable hinges. These have undergone tests according to EN-1935 with a 100 kg load for 200,000 cycles. As heavier doors place higher demands on adjustability, the hinge can be adjusted both vertically and laterally.
Symmetrical and openable EL zone
The EL zone can be turned with the lid to any side and installation of cables and root boxes can largely be done with the electrical zone open before the lid is installed.
The EL zone can be turned with the lid to any side and installation of cables and root boxes can largely be done with the electrical zone open before the lid is installed.
Modular chests as locking
Modular chests are used as locking, which means that you as a customer are no longer are forced to choose a specific lock case brand.
Modular chests are used as locking, which means that you as a customer are no longer are forced to choose a specific lock case brand.
“It is possible to use modular chests from for example, Assa, Dorma, Step or other suppliers - depending on the project's requirements and the customer's preferences,” says Klas Björkman.
To further increase flexibility, the system is modular and can, with relatively simple means, enable even thicker glass in the walls in the future.
“I'm pretty sure that our customers out there will appreciate the flexibility and simplified assembly,” says Alexander Grinde.
The new base gasket also simplifies installation. Unlike traditional solutions that are inserted into grooves, the new gasket is pressed into place. This contributes to a smoother and more controlled seal.
Recycled aluminum strengthens the sustainability profile
An important part of Decibel Plus is the choice of materials. The system is made of recycled aluminum, which is a contribution to ROCA Industry's long-term sustainability work. By using recycled materials, the climate impact is significantly reduced compared to primary aluminum, while maintaining the same technical performance and strength.
For projects where environmental certifications and climate declarations are becoming increasingly important, this is a crucial factor already in the design phase.
Machining and pre-assembly for efficient installation
Decibel Plus is manufactured to customer order in our CNC-controlled machining station and double-cutter. Frames and electrical zones are machined to the correct length and provided with outlets and holes. Then final assembly takes place when components such as stops and sealing strips, as well as end plates are mounted.This is part of ROCA Industry's strategy to not only deliver components - but also complete system solutions that reduce time and risk in the implementation of projects.
A response to the new market reality
With the new frame system, ROCA Industry broadens its range for sound-demanding environments, such as offices, healthcare buildings, schools and public buildings where glazed solutions are combined with high acoustic requirements.“Decibel Plus is ROCA Industry's next generation sound-adapted glass wall system where flexibility, performance, installation efficiency and durability go hand in hand,” concludes Klas Björkman.
