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News Release from: 3M Marine, Aerospace and Specialty Vehicles | Subject: Thinsulate acoustic insulation
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 16 September 2005
Acoustic insulation makes luxury yachts
lighter
When Pearl Motor Yachts installed Thinsulate acoustic insulation, it not only reduced noise on board but also improved the performance of its luxury yachts.
In the world of luxury motor yachts attention to detail is vital if manufacturers are to create speed machines that live up to the discerning demands of customers Installing Thinsulate acoustic insulation from global innovations company 3M has given Pearl yachts the edge by reducing engine noise by 10dB and removing 0.5t of weight from the boat, which is improving its performance
This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 16 Sep 2005 at 8.00am (UK)
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Stratford-on-Avon based Pearl is the fastest growing specialist boat builder in the UK and recognised as a first class designer of bespoke luxury motor yachts, incorporating anything from a built-in recording studio to a gym.
The company teamed up with Dixon Yacht Design in 2002 to create the Pearl 55 - the only four cabin motor yacht in its class capable of reaching 32 knots and complete with full stateroom, electronic sun roof and the latest high-tech navigation and entertainment systems.
After seeing Thinsulate insulation applied elsewhere in the sector, Pearl operations director Malcolm Hutchinson agreed to install Thinsulate insulation in both the engine room and throughout the living accommodation of all its yachts, replacing the glass fibre materials traditionally used.
"We have been amazed by the substantial reduction in noise on board since installing the insulation and now insist on it for all new yachts that we build, including the new Pearl 50 which is being built in Turkey", says Hutchinson, who worked for Princess Yachts before joining Pearl.
As well as reducing noise levels by one and a half times, Thinsulate insulation is 90% lighter than other sound proofing materials, so has substantially reduced the weight of the 27t boat.
Hutchinson adds: "The extra care needed to install Thinsulate insulation is well worth it".
"We sailed through the industry noise tests once we had installed the material and are confident that we will pass new regulations being introduced for interior noise".
Customers who attended sea trials following this year's London Boat show commented on how quiet the yacht is.
"During the test drives prospective clients were amazed that they could hold a conversation in the cabin with the stereo on in the background and the yacht doing 25 knots", recalls Hutchinson.
"Our customers are used to quiet, powerful and comfortable cars and expect the same standards from a yacht".
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