Custom MLV Insulation Materials – FAQ

MLV is one of the most widely used sound insulation materials. Here we offer some facts about MLV in a FAQ format.

As one of the leading manufacturers of MLV insulation materials, we can customize mass loaded vinyl. The custom options includes sizes, thickness, adhesive, etc. Since we offer OEM/ODM service, you can also be a local sound insulation materials supplier.

What is MLV noise insulation materials made of?

At least since 1960s, MLV insulation materials have been used for sound insulation. It is essentially a viscoelastic material, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC or vinyl), which is loaded with inert materials such as calcium carbonate or barium sulfate.

How does MLV acoustic insulation materials work?

Since MLV is viscoelastic material, which exhibits two behaviors – they will flow, but when the force is removed or reversed, they will return to the original shape. This nature, known as hysteresis (or damping), contributes to the ability of MLV to attenuate sound. Many companies claim that MLV “converts sound into heat” is a mechanism, although it is not the basic means of MLV attenuation of sound.

Can I bind MLV insulation materials directly to a wall or partition?

There are some self-adhesive wall insulation materials on the market. However, binding MLV directly to a wall or partition will destroy the MLV and only cause moderate sound attenuation.

When MLV vibrate independently, it will decay the acoustic energy in two ways. Therefore, we do not recommend placing the MLV directly on a wall or wall.

Should I install the MLV insulation materials vertically or horizontally on a wall or ceiling?

In general, the direction of the MLV sound insulation materials hanging on a wall or partition is not important. However, MLV should be suspended in a way that minimizes the number or number of joints.

Insulation Materials

Is thinner MLV insulation material sheet better than thin sheet?

In general, the greater the mass and thickness, the better the low-frequency attenuation of the MLV sheet. Rigid MLV sheets with higher densities may not be as effective as compatible MLV sheets with lower densities.

Can they be used as insulation materials for pipes?

Yes, since it’s a mass material and flexible. It’s an ideal insulation material for pipes. Foil backed insulation is recommend for pipes.