Sound insulation of double-leaf walls – Allowing for studs of finite stiffness in a transfer matrix scheme

In a recent paper by the present author the effect of finite structural connections on the sound reduction index of double walls was predicted by modifying a model based on the transfer matrix technique. However, the model did not include any means to account for the flexibility of the studs; they were assumed to be of infinite stiffness. Based on data for the effective stiffness of flexible steel studs, the model is extended to take account of this flexibility. A number of comparisons are performed, mainly with the measured sound reduction index of lightweight double walls with gypsum boards. Cases include walls with cavity filling as well as with empty (air-filled) cavities. In the latter cases, the energy losses of the cavity are simulated using a model of a porous layer with a minute flow resistivity. Predicted results compare favourably with measurement results. It is assumed that different basic types of studs, i.e. other than the TC-type simulated here may successfully be included in the model.