KNM

KNM Barrier, or mass loaded vinyl, is a flexible sheet made from a combination of vinyl and other additives such as barium sulfate to give it mass or weight. Mass loaded vinyl’s weight may be comparable to a layer of drywall but the material is thinner and pliable.

Mass loaded vinyl can be added to the buildup of walls, ceilings, or floors to add mass to the assembly, which helps block sound. Mass loaded vinyl may also be used to wrap ducts, pipes, or mechanical equipment to block sound radiating from those elements.

For duct and pipe lagging, mass loaded vinyl with an aluminum scrim is used (KNM-100AL or KNM-200AL). Typically a layer of fiberglass or foam insulation is first installed around the pipe or duct and then the mass loaded vinyl is wrapped around with the aluminum scrim facing out. Overlapping edges of the vinyl are taped with polyscrim tape.

Mass loaded vinyl is commonly installed sandwiched between layers of drywall or plywood. The material can be held in place temporary with staples until the layers of drywall are screwed through. There are a variety of ways to work with mass loaded vinyl. A project architect or acoustical engineer may have their own specific preference for installation.

Mass loaded vinyl is sometimes installed to the joists or sandwiched between layers of plywood. It is important to note that mass loaded vinyl is not intended to have finished flooring directly adhered to it – such as tile or glue-applied finishes.

KNM-100B, KNM-100AL, and KNM-200AL are all rated Class A per ASTM E54-15b.

Duct insulation wrap is a material used to wrap HVAC ducts for thermal insulation and soundproofing purposes. It helps to prevent heat loss or gain from the ductwork, improving energy efficiency and temperature control. Additionally, some duct insulation wraps incorporate a barrier layer, such as a knm (kilograms per square meter) barrier, which further enhances soundproofing capabilities by blocking noise transmission through the ducts.

A limp mass barrier material, also known as a limp mass membrane, is a type of soundproofing material used to block the transmission of sound. It is typically a dense and flexible material, such as mass-loaded vinyl (MLV), designed to add mass to walls, floors, or ceilings. When installed, it reduces sound transmission by dampening vibrations and absorbing sound energy, effectively improving soundproofing in various environments like homes, recording studios, or commercial spaces.

Yes, mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) is an effective soundproofing material when used correctly. Its dense and flexible nature allows it to add mass to surfaces, which helps block sound transmission and reduce noise. MLV is commonly used in various applications, such as soundproofing walls, ceilings, and floors, and has proven to be a valuable component in creating more sound-insulated environments.

Mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) is not primarily designed to absorb sound like acoustic wall panels. Instead, it works as a sound barrier by adding mass to surfaces and blocking sound transmission. When properly installed, MLV helps to reduce the amount of sound that passes through walls, ceilings, or floors, improving soundproofing and creating a quieter environment.