Standard Classification for Determination of Low-Frequency Impact Noise Ratings

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The purpose of the LIR rating is to describe the low-frequency impact noise, often referred to as “thudding,” primarily generated by footfall on lightweight structures. The rating increases as the impact sound attenuation of the floor-ceiling structure increases. This rating has been shown to correlate with subjective reaction3,4 and can be used to evaluate and compare the low-frequency impact noise performance of assemblies.  
4.2 The LIIC rating can be used for relative comparison and to rank-order the low-frequency performance of assemblies within a given test laboratory.5 The reproducibility of LIIC between laboratories has not been measured, and the relationship between laboratory and field ratings (LIIC and LIR) is not assumed or established.
Note 1: The tendency for measurement uncertainty to increase at low frequencies should be considered when utilizing metrics of classification standard.
Note 2: This classification does not replace Classification E989 (Impact Insulation Class) and is not interchangeable with it. For example, the LIIC rating of an assembly does not determine its IIC rating and cannot be used to show compliance with an IIC requirement. The expectation is that the low-frequency ratings would be reported alongside the existing ratings.  
4.3 This classification shall only be used with one-third-octave-band data.
SCOPE
1.1 This classification provides methods for calculating single-number ratings of low-frequency impact noise transmission, based on one-third-octave-band impact noise levels as described in Test Methods E492 and E1007.  
1.2 This classification defines ratings that are not defined in other standards. Other standards may define additional ratings based on the methods of this classification.  
1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
30-Jun-2021

Relations

Effective Date
01-Oct-2016
Effective Date
01-Sep-2014
Effective Date
15-Oct-2013
Effective Date
01-Oct-2013
Effective Date
01-Sep-2013
Effective Date
01-Apr-2013
Effective Date
01-Sep-2012
Effective Date
01-Dec-2011
Effective Date
01-Mar-2011
Effective Date
01-Mar-2011
Effective Date
01-Sep-2010
Effective Date
01-Jun-2010
Effective Date
01-Apr-2009
Effective Date
01-Apr-2009
Effective Date
01-Sep-2008

Overview

ASTM E3207-21: Standard Classification for Determination of Low-Frequency Impact Noise Ratings provides a standardized method for calculating single-number ratings that quantify low-frequency impact noise-commonly experienced as “thudding” from footfalls-transmitted through floor-ceiling assemblies. Developed by ASTM International, this classification addresses the need for specialized evaluation of impact sound insulation in lightweight structures, where traditional methods may not adequately describe the subjective annoyance associated with low-frequency noise. The standard is applicable to data obtained from both laboratory and field measurements using specified ASTM test methods, ensuring consistency and clarity in classifying and comparing acoustic performance.

Key Topics

  • Low-Frequency Impact Noise: Focuses on acoustic energy in the 50, 63, and 80 Hz frequency one-third-octave bands, which are most associated with perceptible, irritating “thuds” from footsteps on flooring.
  • LIIC and LIR Ratings:
    • Low-Frequency Impact Insulation Class (LIIC): Calculated from laboratory measurements using normalized sound pressure levels (per ASTM E492).
    • Low-Frequency Impact Rating (LIR): Calculated from field measurements using impact sound pressure levels (per ASTM E1007).
    • Both ratings are single-number indices that increase as impact sound attenuation improves.
  • Measurement Methods: Requires one-third-octave-band data, providing more precision at low frequencies. Rounding methods and specific frequency bands are defined for consistent calculation.
  • Significance and Limitations:
    • Designed specifically for low-frequency impact noise, addressing a gap not covered by existing standards like ASTM E989 (Impact Insulation Class).
    • Not intended as a replacement or substitute for IIC ratings; results from LIIC and LIR are to supplement, not supplant, existing ratings.
    • Reproducibility of results between laboratories at low frequencies may vary, and increased measurement uncertainty should be considered.

Applications

  • Building Acoustics: Facilitates the comparison and evaluation of floor-ceiling assemblies in terms of their low-frequency impact noise performance, an important factor for occupant comfort in residential, commercial, and multi-family buildings.
  • Acoustic Design and Specification: Enables architects, acousticians, engineers, and manufacturers to specify, benchmark, and optimize assemblies based on low-frequency impact sound insulation.
  • Product Development and Testing: Provides a framework for laboratories to rank-compare different constructions or materials in controlled test environments using established ASTM test methods.
  • Code Compliance and Reporting: Supports enhanced acoustical reporting by encouraging inclusion of low-frequency ratings alongside traditional IIC values, aiding regulators and building officials in better understanding noise performance.
  • Research and Standardization: Offers researchers a metric for studying the correlation between subjective occupant response and objective low-frequency impact sound levels.

Related Standards

  • ASTM E492: Test Method for Laboratory Measurement of Impact Sound Transmission Through Floor-Ceiling Assemblies Using the Tapping Machine
  • ASTM E1007: Test Method for Field Measurement of Tapping Machine Impact Sound Transmission Through Floor-Ceiling Assemblies and Associated Floor Structures
  • ASTM E989: Classification for Determination of Single-Number Metrics for Impact Noise (Impact Insulation Class)
  • ASTM C634: Terminology Relating to Building and Environmental Acoustics

Keywords: low-frequency impact noise, impact insulation, LIIC, LIR, floor-ceiling assembly, building acoustics, ASTM E3207-21, sound insulation rating, one-third-octave band.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM E3207-21 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Classification for Determination of Low-Frequency Impact Noise Ratings". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 The purpose of the LIR rating is to describe the low-frequency impact noise, often referred to as “thudding,” primarily generated by footfall on lightweight structures. The rating increases as the impact sound attenuation of the floor-ceiling structure increases. This rating has been shown to correlate with subjective reaction3,4 and can be used to evaluate and compare the low-frequency impact noise performance of assemblies. 4.2 The LIIC rating can be used for relative comparison and to rank-order the low-frequency performance of assemblies within a given test laboratory.5 The reproducibility of LIIC between laboratories has not been measured, and the relationship between laboratory and field ratings (LIIC and LIR) is not assumed or established. Note 1: The tendency for measurement uncertainty to increase at low frequencies should be considered when utilizing metrics of classification standard. Note 2: This classification does not replace Classification E989 (Impact Insulation Class) and is not interchangeable with it. For example, the LIIC rating of an assembly does not determine its IIC rating and cannot be used to show compliance with an IIC requirement. The expectation is that the low-frequency ratings would be reported alongside the existing ratings. 4.3 This classification shall only be used with one-third-octave-band data. SCOPE 1.1 This classification provides methods for calculating single-number ratings of low-frequency impact noise transmission, based on one-third-octave-band impact noise levels as described in Test Methods E492 and E1007. 1.2 This classification defines ratings that are not defined in other standards. Other standards may define additional ratings based on the methods of this classification. 1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 The purpose of the LIR rating is to describe the low-frequency impact noise, often referred to as “thudding,” primarily generated by footfall on lightweight structures. The rating increases as the impact sound attenuation of the floor-ceiling structure increases. This rating has been shown to correlate with subjective reaction3,4 and can be used to evaluate and compare the low-frequency impact noise performance of assemblies. 4.2 The LIIC rating can be used for relative comparison and to rank-order the low-frequency performance of assemblies within a given test laboratory.5 The reproducibility of LIIC between laboratories has not been measured, and the relationship between laboratory and field ratings (LIIC and LIR) is not assumed or established. Note 1: The tendency for measurement uncertainty to increase at low frequencies should be considered when utilizing metrics of classification standard. Note 2: This classification does not replace Classification E989 (Impact Insulation Class) and is not interchangeable with it. For example, the LIIC rating of an assembly does not determine its IIC rating and cannot be used to show compliance with an IIC requirement. The expectation is that the low-frequency ratings would be reported alongside the existing ratings. 4.3 This classification shall only be used with one-third-octave-band data. SCOPE 1.1 This classification provides methods for calculating single-number ratings of low-frequency impact noise transmission, based on one-third-octave-band impact noise levels as described in Test Methods E492 and E1007. 1.2 This classification defines ratings that are not defined in other standards. Other standards may define additional ratings based on the methods of this classification. 1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

ASTM E3207-21 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 91.120.20 - Acoustics in building. Sound insulation. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM E3207-21 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM E1007-16, ASTM E1007-14, ASTM E1007-13b, ASTM E1007-13a, ASTM C634-13, ASTM E1007-13, ASTM E989-06(2012), ASTM C634-11, ASTM E1007-11, ASTM E1007-11e1, ASTM C634-10a, ASTM C634-10, ASTM C634-09, ASTM E492-09, ASTM C634-08a. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM E3207-21 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

Standards Content (Sample)


This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E3207 −21
Standard Classification for
Determination of Low-Frequency Impact Noise Ratings
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3207; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope Ceiling Assemblies and Associated Support Structures
1.1 This classification provides methods for calculating
3. Terminology
single-number ratings of low-frequency impact noise
3.1 Definitions—The following terms used in this classifi-
transmission, based on one-third-octave-band impact noise
cation have specific meaning that are defined in Terminology
levels as described in Test Methods E492 and E1007.
C634: average sound pressure level; decibel; flanking trans-
1.2 This classification defines ratings that are not defined in
mission; impact insulation class; level; octave band; sound
other standards. Other standards may define additional ratings
insulation; sound isolation; sound pressure; sound pressure
based on the methods of this classification.
level.
1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded
3.2 Definitions—The following terms used in this classifi-
as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
cation have specific meaning that are defined in Test Method
standard.
E492: normalized sound pressure level, L .
n
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
3.3 Definitions—The following terms used in this classifi-
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
cation have specific meaning that are defined in Test Method
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
E1007: impact sound pressure level, ISPL.
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
3.4 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.4.1 low-frequency impact insulation class, LIIC, n—of a
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
floor ceiling assembly installed in a laboratory, the single-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
number rating calculated in accordance with this classification
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
using the normalized sound pressure levels (L ) measured as
n
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
described in Test Method E492.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
3.4.1.1 Discussion—This classification method uses the L
n
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
in the 50, 63, and 80 Hz one-third-octave bands. Measurement
2. Referenced Documents of these bands is described as desirable but not required inTest
2 Method E492. Measurement in these bands is required in order
2.1 ASTM Standards:
to calculate LIIC.
C634 Terminology Relating to Building and Environmental
3.4.1.2 Discussion—Except for the frequency range, no
Acoustics
change in Test Method E492 is required to measure LIIC.
E492 Test Method for Laboratory Measurement of Impact
3.4.2 low-frequency impact rating, LIR, n—the single num-
Sound Transmission Through Floor-Ceiling Assemblies
ber rating calculated in accordance with this classification
Using the Tapping Machine
using the impact sound pressure levels (ISPL) measured in a
E989 Classification for Determination of Single-Number
building, as described in Test Method E1007.
Metrics for Impact Noise
3.4.2.1 Discussion—This classification method uses the
E1007 Test Method for Field Measurement of Tapping
ISPL in the 50, 63, and 80 Hz one-third-octave bands.
Machine Impact Sound Transmission Through Floor-
Measurement of these bands is described as desirable but not
required inTest Method E1007. Measurement in these bands is
This classification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E33 on
required in order to calculate LIR.
Building and Environmental Acoustics and is the direct responsibility of Subcom-
3.4.2.2 Discussion—Except for the frequency range, no
mittee E33.10 on Structural Acoustics and Vibration.
change in Test Method E1007 is required to measure LIR.
Current edition approved July 1, 2021. Published July 2021. DOI: 10.1520/
E3207-21.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or 4. Significance and Use
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
4.1 The
...

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