Noise barriers
Engineered Noise Barriers
Built for Performance, Safety, and Compliance
Memtech designs and installs high-durability barrier systems (lightweight PVC or heavy-duty modular panels) that block noise, enhance safety, and comply with regulations.
Barrier Systems Engineered for Optimum Results
Noise barrier walls are commonly used to block plant noise from residential or other commercial areas, and in some instances, are the only viable way to meet community noise standards.
Memtech Acoustics specializes in the engineering and construction of noise barrier walls for virtually any application. These walls are aesthetically pleasing and are available in numerous size and height configurations. Using acoustic modeling we can accurately determine the optimum locations and dimensions of these walls to assure that your noise goals are met within budgetary requirements.
For plants with extremely high noise levels, or who are dealing with stringent noise standards, angled tops or ‘splays’ can be added to these walls to further enhance performance. The height, angle and positioning of the splays is dependent on the desired noise attenuation goal and frequency content of the source noise.
Memtech Acoustics specializes in the engineering and construction of noise barrier walls for virtually any application. These walls are aesthetically pleasing and are available in numerous size and height configurations. Using acoustic modeling we can accurately determine the optimum locations and dimensions of these walls to assure that your noise goals are met within budgetary requirements.
For plants with extremely high noise levels, or who are dealing with stringent noise standards, angled tops or ‘splays’ can be added to these walls to further enhance performance. The height, angle and positioning of the splays is dependent on the desired noise attenuation goal and frequency content of the source noise.
Our barrier systems are trusted by general contractors, industrial engineers, safety officers, and hygienists for:
- Rooftop HVAC and generator enclosures
- Perimeter walls for machinery, railways, or roadside facilities
- Noise mitigation around loading docks and manufacturing areas
- Mechanical equipment barriers on industrial campus rooftops
- Urban transit noise walls and infrastructure protection
Dual-Performance Systems:
Absorption and Noise Blocking
Noise Barriers
Precast Absorptive Walls
Engineered wood-fiber cement panels installed in a post-and-panel system, delivering NRC values of 0.70–0.90 and STC ratings up to 46. Features include 2-hour fire resistance, long service life, and wide post spacing (12–24 ft centers) for tall, continuous runs. An ideal choice when durability, aesthetics, and code compliance are critical.
Absorptive performance is achieved through a porous or textured concrete face, engineered to remain effective over time without reliance on exposed fibrous materials.
Absorptive performance is achieved through a porous or textured concrete face, engineered to remain effective over time without reliance on exposed fibrous materials.
Performance & Design Characteristics:
- High transmission loss through dense, high-mass construction
- Broadband sound absorption on the noise-facing side
- Reduced reflected noise compared to reflective barriers
- Resistance to weather, moisture, freeze-thaw, and impact
- Architectural finish options to integrate with surroundings
Noise barriers
QuietLine® V-Stack Barrier Wall System
V-Stack noise barrier wall systems provide a high-performance, modular solution for controlling industrial and environmental noise. Utilizing a stackable panel design, these systems allow for rapid installation and flexible height adjustments while maintaining structural integrity and consistent sound transmission loss.
Engineered for applications such as industrial facilities, mechanical equipment screening, and perimeter noise control, V-Stack barriers combine dense barrier construction with optional absorptive finishes to reduce both transmitted and reflected noise.
Memtech Acoustics specifies V-Stack barrier systems when projects demand a durable, field-adaptable noise control solution that delivers predictable performance without the constraints of cast-in-place construction.
Engineered for applications such as industrial facilities, mechanical equipment screening, and perimeter noise control, V-Stack barriers combine dense barrier construction with optional absorptive finishes to reduce both transmitted and reflected noise.
Memtech Acoustics specifies V-Stack barrier systems when projects demand a durable, field-adaptable noise control solution that delivers predictable performance without the constraints of cast-in-place construction.
Noise barriers
Silent Protector® Absorptive PVC Barrier
Tongue‑and‑groove PVC panels with mineral‑wool cores deliver NRC up to ~0.95 and STC ~32; heavier variants reach STC ~39. Excellent for rooftops and mechanical equipment barriers where weight and ease of installation matter; available in extended 16 ft panel lengths to reduce posts and footings.
Performance & Design Characteristics:
- Engineered for maximum mitigation of road, rail, manufacturing, industrial or commercial noise
- Perforated panels with acoustical mineral wool fill absorb unwanted noise
- Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating up to 39
- Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) rating of 0.95
- Available in panel lengths of up to 16′ (4.9 m)
Noise barriers
Tuf-Barrier® Reflective PVC Barrier
High‑durability reflective PVC designed to block/redirect sound with STC ~31; enhanced versions test to STC ~36 and are also available in 16 ft spans for efficient installations along tight corridors or structure‑mounted runs.
Performance & Design Characteristics:
- PVC Systems is impervious to rain, snow and ice, unaffected by de-icing salts
- Wind load tested for hurricane-force winds
- Graffiti and tagging resistant
- Designed to meet applicable design codes (AASHTO, IBC, CSA)
- Made from recycled and recyclable PVC. Earn LEED Points for Green Building
Noise Barriers
Durisol Aluminum MASH TL System
Lightweight, mineral‑wool‑filled aluminum panels available in absorptive or reflective configurations and validated to MASH TL‑4 criteria (truck impact at 58 mph).
These barriers combine high-mass noise wall construction with crash-rated structural support systems, allowing them to safely withstand vehicle impacts without catastrophic failure. In addition to controlling traffic noise, they are designed to protect motorists, maintenance personnel, and adjacent communities.
These barriers combine high-mass noise wall construction with crash-rated structural support systems, allowing them to safely withstand vehicle impacts without catastrophic failure. In addition to controlling traffic noise, they are designed to protect motorists, maintenance personnel, and adjacent communities.
Performance & Design Characteristics:
- Permanent, low-maintenance systems suitable for long-term infrastructure use
- Available in single or doubled-sided absorptive, and noise reflective options
- Built with perforations and a sound absorbing mineral wool interior
- Durable materials resistant to weather, freeze-thaw, and environmental exposure
Noise barriers
QuietLine® SL and SL-R Barrier Walls
The QuietLine SL and SL-R Barrier Walls combine modular sound absorption with streamlined installation. Designed for large-scale facilities and infrastructure projects, these systems deliver high-performance noise reduction while offering improved aesthetics and visual appearance.
Memtech Acoustics specifies SL/SLR barrier systems as part of a fully engineered noise control strategy, ensuring barrier height, placement, and construction align with the dominant noise paths and project performance goals.
Memtech Acoustics specifies SL/SLR barrier systems as part of a fully engineered noise control strategy, ensuring barrier height, placement, and construction align with the dominant noise paths and project performance goals.
Performance & Design Characteristics:
- Panel systems designed to achieve STC ratings typically in the 25–35+ range, depending on panel thickness and construction
- Interlocking steel-framed panels allow for stackable installation, continuous barrier runs, and variable heights based on site requirements
- Heavy-gauge steel panels and structural framing engineered for corrosion resistance and long-term outdoor durability
- Integrated sound-absorptive facing reduces reflected noise, improving performance in environments where sound reflection is a concern
Acoustic Barrier Systems
Noise barriers
ACRYLITE® Soundstop
UV‑stable, high‑clarity panels for excellent visibility and maintaining daylight internally while controlling noise; offered as drop‑in “ready‑fit” modules, with optional bird‑safe striping and bridge/rail accessories. Often paired as windows with opaque walls to open views without sacrificing height. Some systems carry extended warranties for outdoor use.
Performance & Design Characteristics:
- Transparent panels maintain clear sightlines and daylight while delivering measurable noise control
- Acrylic and polycarbonate systems offer high strength-to-weight performance, suitable for demanding outdoor environments
- Materials are designed for long-term exterior exposure, resisting yellowing, embrittlement, and degradation over time
- Panel thickness and dimensions are selected based on required noise reduction, wind loads, and structural constraints
Noise barriers
QuietLine® HP/42 Vertical Panel System
Modular noise barrier wall systems provide flexible, high-performance noise mitigation for industrial, commercial, and environmental applications where permanent construction may not be practical or required. These systems utilize panelized barrier elements mounted within engineered framing, allowing barriers to be configured, expanded, relocated, or removed as site conditions change.
Unlike monolithic concrete walls, modular barrier systems offer faster installation, reduced foundation requirements, and adaptable layouts. Panels may incorporate reflective, absorptive, or composite constructions depending on noise source characteristics and site constraints.
Unlike monolithic concrete walls, modular barrier systems offer faster installation, reduced foundation requirements, and adaptable layouts. Panels may incorporate reflective, absorptive, or composite constructions depending on noise source characteristics and site constraints.
Performance & Design Characteristics:
- Available with absorptive or reflective faces based on noise control strategy
- Compatible with steel framing and support systems
- Applicable for permanent or semi-permanent installations
Noise Barriers
Hybrid & Integrated Systems
Combine transparent sections for natural daylight with precast or PVC panels where added mass is required. Retaining walls, traffic barriers, and access portals, such as man-doors and gates, can be seamlessly integrated, delivering a clean, integrated solution.
- Materials work with standard precast concrete wall (CMU) blocks
- Adds attractive transparent panels to masonry block noise barrier walls
- Easy to install system improves the appearance and practicality while reducing overall installation time and project cost
Noise Barriers
Construction Benefits
Our noise barrier features and benefits quickly stack up to make them the go-to choice over other noise barrier walls.
- Tongue and groove panels stack within steel posts
- Engineered for maximum mitigation of road, rail, manufacturing, industrial or commercial noise
- Adds a sound-absorbing backer board behind the mineral wool batt for a heavier absorptive panel with higher sound mitigation properties
- Smaller foundations mean lower foundation costs
- PVC XL Series offers panel lengths of up to 16′ (4.9 m) which means fewer panels, posts and foundations
- Impervious to rain, snow and ice, unaffected by de-icing salts
Technical Highlights
Download the full spec sheet below.
Sound Transmission Class (STC)
Up to 46 dB depending on system configuration and environment
Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC)
Varies between ~0.70–0.95 for absorptive systems
Maximum Panel Span
Up to 16 ft (material-dependent)
Height Capability
Up to 40 ft (depending on design and load conditions)
Fire Rating: Class A (ASTM E84)
Up to 2-hour fire-resistance (select precast systems) per ASTM E119
Weather Resistance
UV-stable, freeze–thaw rated, corrosion-protected
Service Life Expectancy
20–40+ years based on material selection and environment
Applications
Where noise barriers are most commonly used.
Rooftop Mechanical Barriers
HVAC units, chillers, cooling towers, and air-handling equipment
Generators & Compressors
Isolating noise from stand-by or continuous-duty power system stations.
Community Noise Control
Reducing noise from traffic, industrial, utility, or energy operations
Transportation & Infrastructure
Highway, rail, and transit corridor noise abatement
Perimeter Industrial Barriers
Manufacturing plants, processing facilities, and distribution centers.
Loading Docks & Shipping Areas
Containing truck, forklift, and material-handling noise.
Technical Data &
Product Literature
QuietLine® V-Stack
QuietLine® V-Stack 4" Panel Details Sheet
QuietLine® V-Stack 5" Panel Details Sheet
QuietLine® V-Stack Panel (Aluminum) Data Sheet
QuietLine® V-Stack Panel (Steel) Data Sheet
QuietLine® V-Stack Panel Typical Wall Layout
QuietLine® V-Stack Panel Specifications
QuietLine® SL and SL-R
QuietLine® SL Panel (Aluminum) Data Sheet
QuietLine® SL Panel (Steel) Data Sheet
QuietLine® SL Panel Details Sheet
QuietLine® SL Panel Specifications
QuietLine® SL-R Panel (Aluminum) Data Sheet
QuietLine® SL-R Panel (Steel) Data Sheet
QuietLine® SL-R Panel Details Sheet
QuietLine® SL-R Concealer Panel (Aluminum) Data Sheet
QuietLine® SL-R Concealer Panel (Steel) Data Sheet
QuietLine® SL-R Concealer Panel Details Sheet
QuietLine® SL-R Panel Specifications
QuietLine® HP/42
QuietLine® HP/42 Panel Details Sheet
QuietLine® HP/42 Panel Drawing
QuietLine® HP/42 Panel Specifications
Silent Protector® & Tuf-Barrier®
Standard Product Drawings
Foundation Details
Assembly Details
Accessories
Generic Roof Connection Details
Why Choose Memtech Acoustics?
Certified and Licensed Professionals
Every project is guided by acoustical engineering expertise, not guesswork.
National Standards Alignment
Our products follow IBC, ASTM E90 / ASTM E413 / ASTM C423, NFPA 80 & NFPA 285, and AASHTO Design Guide Specifications.
Turnkey, Full-Service Delivery
One partner for assessment, engineering, sourcing, and installation* from concept to compliance.
High Responsiveness, Proven Track-Record
Fast mobilization, accurate timelines, and dependable project execution.
Trusted Local Partner, On-Demand Support
Michigan-based with regional reach and national, or international, shipping capabilities.
*Shipping available across continental USA and international; installations are offered in select regions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a noise barrier and how does it work?
A noise barrier is a physical structure designed to block and absorb sound from industrial equipment, roadways, or mechanical systems. Reflective barriers reduce noise by blocking sound transmission, while absorptive barriers reduce both transmitted and reflected noise by dissipating sound energy.
What is the difference between absorptive and reflective noise barriers?
Reflective noise barriers are designed to block sound, while absorptive noise barriers include sound-absorbing surfaces that reduce reflected noise and reverberation. Absorptive systems are typically used where reflected sound could impact nearby areas.
What STC and NRC ratings do your noise barriers achieve?
Memtech Acoustics' barrier systems span a wide range of performance. Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings range from approximately 31 for standard reflective PVC systems up to 46 for high-mass precast absorptive walls. Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) values for absorptive systems range from 0.70 to 0.95, depending on material and panel construction. The right specification depends on the source noise level, frequency content, and regulatory target.
How tall can a noise barrier wall be built?
Depending on design requirements, foundation conditions, and wind loading, Memtech barrier systems can be engineered up to 40 feet in height. Modular stackable systems like the QuietLine® V-Stack allow for flexible height adjustments in the field without the need for cast-in-place concrete construction.
What types of applications are noise barrier walls used for?
Noise barriers are used across a wide range of industrial, commercial, and infrastructure applications, including:
- Rooftop HVAC enclosures (chillers, cooling towers, air handlers)
- Generator and compressor isolation
- Manufacturing plant perimeter walls
- Highway, rail, and transit corridor noise abatement
- Loading docks and distribution center perimeters
- Community noise control for utilities and energy facilities
- Rooftop HVAC enclosures (chillers, cooling towers, air handlers)
- Generator and compressor isolation
- Manufacturing plant perimeter walls
- Highway, rail, and transit corridor noise abatement
- Loading docks and distribution center perimeters
- Community noise control for utilities and energy facilities
Are your noise barrier systems crash-rated or compliant with highway standards?
Yes. Memtech Acoustics offers the MASH TL System, which is validated to MASH TL-4 criteria, meaning the barrier has been tested to withstand truck impacts at 58 mph without catastrophic failure. These systems meet AASHTO design guide specifications and are appropriate for transportation and highway infrastructure projects where vehicle impact protection is required alongside noise control.
Can a noise barrier be transparent or partially see-through?
Yes. ACRYLITE® Soundstop panels are UV-stable, high-clarity acrylic or polycarbonate panels that provide measurable noise control while maintaining sightlines and natural daylight. These are frequently used in hybrid configurations, paired with opaque precast or PVC panels where mass is needed, to preserve views along highway corridors, pedestrian bridges, or urban transit routes.
How do you determine where to place a noise barrier and how high it needs to be?
Memtech Acoustics uses acoustic modeling to analyze the source noise level, frequency content, receiver locations, and site geometry. This determines the barrier's optimum position and minimum effective height. For sources with very high noise levels or projects subject to stringent community noise ordinances, angled tops (splays) can be added to further improve attenuation at the receiver.
How long do outdoor noise barriers last, and what maintenance is required?
Service life varies by material, but typically last 20 to 40+ years depending on system selection and environmental conditions. PVC-based systems like the Silent Protector® and Tuf-Barrier® are impervious to rain, snow, ice, and de-icing salts, and are graffiti-resistant. Precast wood-fiber cement panels are rated for freeze-thaw cycling, moisture resistance, and 2-hour fire resistance per ASTM E119. Most systems are low-maintenance by design.
Can you handle the full project, from engineering to installation?
Yes. Memtech Acoustics operates as a single-source partner for assessment, acoustic modeling, product specification, sourcing, and installation coordination. Products ship across the continental U.S. and internationally; installation services are available in select regions. Contact us to discuss your project scope.
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