Reapor Used at Glass Recycling Facility

Pyrotek delivers sustainable noise control at recycling facility

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  • Authors Petra Voet
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  • Reading time 2 minutes

In Sydney's busy recycling sector, one facility was facing a growing challenge: managing environmental noise generated by recyclable material handling, constant truck movements and heavy machinery operations.

These high noise levels were not only a compliance concern for the facility itself but also for surrounding properties and the wider environment. In addition, the noise was impacting the workplace comfort and well-being of staff working in the yard. The acoustic consultant behind the project and facility sought a long-term, outdoor solution that could withstand demanding industrial conditions, improve the work environment, and reflect its strong commitment to sustainability.

Reapor® sound-absorbing panels provided by Pyrotek were selected to reduce and mitigate the spread of noise within and beyond the site boundaries. Being made from recycled glass, the facility itself specialising in glass recycling, the solution came full circle! A sustainable solution,
installed at a site dedicated to sustainability.

Challenges

The recycling yard presented a complex acoustic environment: a large, open space filled with hard, reflective surfaces and constant industrial activity. Trucks and processing equipment produced high noise levels, particularly in the outdoor sections of the site. Reducing this impact - both for workers onsite and for neighbouring businesses - was a key objective. Any acoustic treatment also needed to meet strict fire safety standards, withstand outdoor exposure over time, and be practical to install on a busy site. The client sought an environmentally durable, noncombustible product that would not only absorb sound effectively but could also be installed quickly without disrupting operations.

Pyrotek Reapor used as an acoustic wall

Solutions

Reapor sound absorbing panels were specified by an acoustic consultant as the preferred treatment due to proven performance in demanding environments. Manufactured from foamed recycled glass, Reapor delivers excellent sound absorption while also being noncombustible, weather-resistant, and suited for long-term outdoor use. Installation was carried out using Pyrotek’s own Pyrogrip® PU adhesive along with RB Brackets. The construction team reported that the panels were lightweight, easy to handle, and impressively consistent in shape - simplifying the installation process even in a less-than-ideal working environment. Despite the grey skies and concrete backdrop, the job was completed swiftly and efficiently, with minimal disruption to daily operations.

Reapor Used at Glass Recycling Facility Reapor Used at Glass Recycling Facility

Results

The project was a success - the yard has since met compliance requirements both on-site and across the surrounding community, and those onsite have noted a noticeable improvement in sound levels. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with the builders praising the product for its ease of use, and the client appreciated the durability and performance of a solution that aligns with their environmental values. This project  highlights the versatility and impact of Reapor in outdoor industrial settings - especially where noise control, fire safety, and longterm durability  must go hand in hand. And in a fitting full circle, the glass recycling site solved its noise challenge with Reapor – a premium absorber made from recycled glass, the same material it handles every day.