ASTM E557 : 12(2020)

Standard Guide for Architectural Design and Installation Practices for Sound Isolation between Spaces Separated by Operable Partitions

Standard Details

1.1 This guide provides design details that should be considered in the design of buildings that include operable partitions. Operable partitions are those that can be quickly put in place or removed and stored to provide flexibility in the size of spaces typically used for meetings or social functions.

1.1.1 The guide primarily discusses details in the building design required to limit leakage of sound around an operable partition.

1.1.2 The guide also discusses some factors that affect the performance of the partitions themselves.

1.1.3 This guide is neither a specification for operable partitions nor a document intended to be imposed as a requirement on manufacturers of operable partitions.

1.2 Excluded from this guide are those partitions that are classified by the building products industry as demountable. Demountable partitions are those that are designed and installed with the intent of later being taken down and re-erected by a crew over a period of time, with the components being reusable.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International StandardDetails, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.