FEM Numerical Simulations to Predict the Vibration Reduction Index of Traditional and Lightweight Building Junctions

This work concerns the use of FEM (Finite Element Methods) software to predict the vibration reduction index Kij of several T-shaped junctions of both traditional heavy and lightweight structures. Much has been done so far with respect to FEM simulations of thermal bridges, but such methodology is not yet widespread in the field of acoustics. Research is needed to provide simplified formulas to be included in the new releases of the EN ISO 12354-1 standard, to overcome discrepancies between calculated and measured values. This should be done particularly for heavy junctions and combinations of heavy and lightweight junctions. In this study a validation of the simulation method has been shown, after its application to simple T-joints typical of traditional building constructions. The intention in the future is to use numerical simulations to provide data or formulas on Kij for more complex types of junctions and to validate simulations with in-laboratory measurements.