When engineers and technical buyers search for PET acoustic panels, one of the first specifications they look for is the NRC rating. But what does NRC really mean? And how do thickness and density influence the final acoustic performance?

If you are sourcing from an acoustic panels supplier—especially from acoustic panels China manufacturers—understanding these variables is essential to ensure your project meets its acoustic targets.

This guide explains PET acoustic panel NRC ratings in practical, engineering-focused terms.

What Is NRC in PET Acoustic Panels?

NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) is a single-number rating that represents the average sound absorption performance of a material at four key frequencies:

• 250 Hz

• 500 Hz

• 1000 Hz

• 2000 Hz

The NRC value ranges from 0 to 1.0:

• NRC 0.00 = absorbs no sound

• NRC 1.00 = absorbs 100% of incident sound (theoretically)

For example:

• NRC 0.45 → absorbs 45% of sound energy

• NRC 0.85 → absorbs 85%

Most PET acoustic panels used in architectural and industrial applications typically range between NRC 0.45 and 0.95, depending on thickness, density, and installation method.

How Thickness Affects PET Acoustic Panel NRC Ratings

Thickness is one of the most influential factors in sound absorption performance.

9mm PET Acoustic Panels

• Typical NRC: 0.40–0.55

• Best for: mid-to-high frequency control

• Application: wall decoration, office spaces, light echo reduction

Thin panels absorb higher frequencies effectively but struggle with lower frequencies (below 500 Hz).

12mm PET Acoustic Panels

• Typical NRC: 0.55–0.75

• Balanced mid-frequency absorption

• Suitable for classrooms, meeting rooms, retail spaces

This thickness is one of the most commonly specified by architects.

24mm PET Acoustic Panels

• Typical NRC: 0.80–0.95

• Significantly improved low-frequency performance

• Ideal for industrial equipment rooms, studios, HVAC enclosures

Thicker panels allow deeper sound wave penetration, increasing energy dissipation within the polyester fiber structure.

At Leedings Acoustic, many industrial clients choose 24mm PET panels for machinery noise control projects.

How Density Affects Sound Absorption

While thickness determines how deep sound waves can travel, density controls how effectively those waves are dissipated.

Common density options include:

• 1300 g/sqm

• 1600 g/sqm

• 1900 g/sqm

Lower Density (e.g., 1300 g/sqm)

• Softer fiber structure

• Better high-frequency absorption

• Lightweight and cost-effective

Higher Density (e.g., 1900 g/sqm)

• More compact fiber structure

• Improved mid-frequency performance

• Better structural rigidity

• Suitable for CNC machining applications

However, density alone does not automatically increase NRC. If the panel becomes too dense without increasing thickness, it may reflect more sound instead of absorbing it.

A professional acoustic panels supplier should provide lab-tested data instead of generic claims.

Frequency Performance: Why Low Frequencies Are Harder to Absorb

One common misunderstanding is assuming a high NRC rating guarantees excellent low-frequency absorption.

NRC averages mid-range frequencies. It does not fully represent performance below 250 Hz.

For industrial applications such as:

• Generator enclosures

• HVAC systems

• Data center equipment rooms

Low-frequency absorption is critical.

To improve low-frequency control:

• Increase panel thickness (24mm or thicker)

• Install panels with an air gap (20–50mm behind the panel)

• Combine PET panels with barrier materials

Leading acoustic panels China manufacturers often provide frequency absorption curves instead of just NRC values for engineering projects.

Installation Method Also Affects NRC

Even with identical PET acoustic panels, installation changes performance significantly.

Direct Wall Mounting

• Lower low-frequency absorption

• Suitable for echo control

With Air Gap (20–50mm)

• Increased low-frequency absorption

• Higher effective NRC

• Recommended for industrial noise reduction

Professional suppliers like Leedings Acoustic provide guidance on installation configurations to optimize acoustic results.

Comparing Thickness and Density Together

For large-scale B2B projects, relying solely on thickness without reviewing density specifications may result in underperformance.

Why Accurate NRC Data Matters When Choosing an Acoustic Panels Supplier

For industrial buyers, inaccurate acoustic data can lead to:

• Failed compliance tests

• Project delays

• Costly retrofitting

When sourcing from an acoustic panels China manufacturer, always request:

• ASTM C423 test reports

• ISO 354 laboratory results

• Full frequency absorption curves

An experienced supplier like Leedings Acoustic conducts batch testing to ensure consistent density and fiber distribution, which directly impacts NRC performance stability.

Final Thoughts: Selecting the Right PET Acoustic Panel

Understanding PET acoustic panel NRC ratings is not just about reading a single number.

You must evaluate:

• Thickness

• Density

• Frequency absorption curve

• Installation method

• Application environment

For decorative applications, thinner panels may be sufficient.

For industrial or mechanical noise control, thicker and properly installed panels are essential.

Working with a technically experienced acoustic panels supplier ensures you receive performance data—not marketing claims.

If you are evaluating PET acoustic panels for a commercial or industrial project, partnering with a manufacturer that understands acoustic engineering—such as Leedings Acoustic—can significantly reduce risk and improve project outcomes.