Research and Development

We work closely with manufacturers to develop new products and innovative technologies

PKA History with R&D

PKA have extensive experience in developing new products from the initial stages of design through to acoustic prediction, prototype testing and product release. We can provide expert advice at the concept stage which can save time and money by predicting the expected acoustic hurdles and providing solutions to improve the product prior to costly testing.

Research has been part of PKA from the start. Peter Knowland’s early work included acoustic model testing and materials research for the Sydney Opera House, and PKA’s original acoustic design for the Queen Square Law Courts in 1968 involved pioneering research into lightweight plasterboard walls. PKA consultants have since overseen testing at the Lorient Acoustic Laboratory and contributed to the CSR Red Book acoustic design guide.

Acoustic laboratory testing of a floor system

Areas of Development

We work closely with manufacturers to develop new products and innovative technologies such as Massive Timber (CLT), Modular Construction, R&D, and Acoustic Laboratory Testing.

Massive Timber (CLT)

Acoustic design and testing advice for massive timber floor and wall systems, including cross-laminated timber (CLT).

Modular Construction

Acoustic input for modular and prefabricated building systems, so walls, floors and junctions perform once assembled on site.

Acoustic Laboratory Testing

PKA can provide expert oversight of acoustic laboratory testing, from developing a schedule of systems to test through to onsite advice during the testing. This can minimise the number of expensive tests and avoid additional laboratory bookings, saving the client both time and money.

Exxova Lab

Details of PKA’s work with the Exxova lab to come from PKA

Photo to come from PKA

Product Development

PKA is and has been on the cutting edge of product developments such as:

Company Product
Studco Resilient Partition Stud
UBIQ INEX Magnesium Oxide Board
CSR Hebel Powerpanel & Powerfloor aerated concrete panel
CSR Bradford Glasswool & Soundscreen insulation
CSR Cemintel Designer Series external wood panel
CSR Gyprock Quietstud Acoustic Steel Stud
CSR Resilient Mount
Trafalgar Water based sealant
Trafalgar Tyco fire-rated door
HB Fuller Water based sealant
Kilargo (Lorient) Window and door seals
ASA (QLD) Access Panels
AFS Logicwall aerated concrete panel
Ritek Roof Panel
Pyrotek 4515 pipe lagging
Brick ‘n’ Block Party wall system
Ultrafloor Precast concrete floor

Companies Worked With

PKA has worked with a wide range of manufacturers and companies to develop acoustic products and advice. Some of our clients include:

List to come from PKA

Joel Parry-Jones

Joel Parry-Jones, Principal

Joel leads PKA’s research and development work. He joined PKA in 2004, holds a Master of Design Science (Audio and Acoustics) from the University of Sydney, and has overseen acoustic laboratory testing for manufacturers.

CV to come from PKA

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Practical acoustic advice from a team working since 1968.
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