Understanding PET Felt and the Best PET Felt Acoustic Panels Solutions

If you’re looking for a stylish and cost-effective acoustic solution for your commercial or residential property, PET felt acoustic panels could be ideal. As a lightweight and moldable option that comes in a range of beautiful colors and shapes, I love suggesting PET felt for on-the-fly alterations or for someone who wants a really modern solution with designer appeal.

In this article, I’ll give you the basics on what PET felt is and how it’s made. I’ll also discuss some benefits and misconceptions and share some of the best PET acoustic panel solutions for your property. In the end, you should have a good idea of whether PET acoustic panels are the right choice for you.

How is PET felt made? Typically, plastic bottles are shredded into flakes. The flakes are then heated and melted, which can be done using either a hot air-forced drying method or a steam-heating system. Both processes require precise temperature control so that the PET flakes are heated uniformly. Once the flakes melt, they form a fibrous material which is then pressed and twisted into a felt-like fabric, aka PET felt.

A specialty dye is used to make the PET super colorful and vibrant. However, like all things that require dying, there can be slight color differences between pieces of PET felt. That’s why it’s best to order more than you need to get a more uniform color in case you need additional panels down the road. So, how does PET felt become acoustic panels? What makes it so good for acoustics?

I love explaining this stuff, so let’s talk physics, shall we? Sound waves can’t be stopped, but they can be absorbed, reflected, and refracted, depending on the material the sound wave is passing through. Additionally, the speed of sound waves can be affected by things like density, temperature, and friction. As a result, sound-absorbing materials can help to reduce the amplitude (volume) of the sound.

PET felt is a porous material that affects sound waves in a unique way. It essentially creates a tortured path where heat is a byproduct of friction. When sound waves go through a porous substance like PET felt, the wave hits the fibers and bounces between the little air spaces between those fibers. It’s like an arrow going through a hay bale. The fibers and air pockets absorb and reflect the sound waves and slows them down incrementally.

In terms of absorption strength, fiberglass is one of the most effective materials available. Interestingly, PET felt can absorb sound as well as fiberglass when comparing a one-inch thick piece of both. However, PET felt products are typically produced at a thinner thickness and more dense. As a result, many people think it isn’t as effective. It is true that the denser something is, the less sound it’s going to absorb.

If you are using a 9mm PET felt product, you can enhance its ability to absorb sound by putting an air gap or spacing it further from a wall to improve its dynamic performance. In other words, air pockets and positioning help PET felt maintain its aesthetically appealing appearance and acoustic properties. It’s all about the laws of physics!

There are several benefits to choosing PET felt acoustic panels. Here are some of the top benefits:

There are many types of PET felt acoustic panels on the market. The best solution will depend on your needs, goals, and budget. However, you want to be sure to go with a high-quality manufacturer like Acoustical Solutions.

Here are some of our best PET acoustic panels to consider for your project:

In short, PET felt acoustic panels are an excellent choice for a cost-effective acoustic solution. Both decorative and eco-friendly, they’re a perfect option for adding style and improving the acoustics of your space. Their numerous benefits will allow you to enjoy a beautiful, sleek, and virtually soundproof environment in any area.

Ready to get started with PET felt acoustic panels? Contact us today!