Key Insights
Looking to elevate both the acoustics and aesthetics of your next project? Enter baffle ceilings – the perfect mixture of form and function. These vertically suspended ceilings, crafted from premium materials like aluminium and steel bring rhythm and dimension to open ceiling spaces.
What Are Baffle Ceilings?
More than just a design statement, baffle ceilings deliver powerful acoustic performance while preserving full access to the plenum above. Ideal for modern interiors that demand both sound control and architectural impact, they’re a go-to solution for specifiers who refuse to compromise.
How Baffle Ceilings Improve Acoustics
- Absorption of sound waves: The baffles and infill acoustic pads absorb both direct and reflected sound, effectively reducing reverberation and echo in spaces with hard ceilings
- Speech clarity enhancement: In classrooms, open‑plan offices, transport hubs, and public areas, reducing reflections improves speech intelligibility.
- Noise reduction: Acoustic baffles help control both airborne sound and reverberation, easing ambient noise in busy environments.
- High-performance options: Double-faced panels and mineral-wool infill (typically 50 mm deep, ~45 kg/m³) deliver superior acoustic results.
SAS International Baffle Ceiling Systems Supplied by Progressive Materials
SAS 500 – Metal Acoustic Baffle System
- Linear baffles (1,200–1,800 mm lengths, 50 mm width, 100–500 mm depth)
- Double-faced panels with 50 mm mineral wool pads
- Flexible layout: individual or continuous runs, variable angles/heights, finishes
- Ideal for large exposed soffit areas (education, transport, offices)
SAS 510 – Waveform Acoustic Baffles
- Enhances aesthetic through curved/wave profiles with depths up to 1,000 mm
- Standard 50 mm mineral wool infill, customizable finishes/perforations
- Maintains acoustic integrity while delivering sculptural ceiling expressions
SAS 740 – Linear profile metal ceiling system
- Linear profile system with optional acoustic infill for high-performance acoustics
- Supports continuous runs, curved geometry, service integration
- Timber-effect, powder-coat, or anodised finishes—available from stock in WA
SAS 750 – Linear Acoustic Tubular Ceilings
- Tube shaped profile with added acoustic control via lay over acoustic insulation
- Integrates seamlessly with lighting, signage, and mechanical services
- Delivers strong visual definition with enhanced noise reduction
- Ideal for large open-plan spaces requiring both design flexibility and acoustic performance
Key Acoustic & Functional Benefits
Reduced reverberation – Effective absorption from mineral wool and perforated panels.
Improved speech intelligibility – Critical in educational, office, and public contexts.
Noise level control – Quiets ambient noise from machinery, adjacent spaces.
Access to plenum – Vertical suspension preserves full access to services.
Fire and performance compliance – SAS systems meet fire and acoustic standards, Progressive supports AS ISO testing
Design, Aesthetic & Integration Advantages
- Customisable aesthetics: Multiple finishes – powder coat, anodise, timber effect; perforation options; bespoke sizes
- Architectural flair: Waveforms minimalist linear runs, geometric arrangements – boost interior form and materiality
- Lighting & services integration: Embed LED lighting; maintain clear access for HVAC, smoke extraction, fire systems
- Durability & maintainability: Metal baffles are long-lasting (approx. 25-year lifespan), resilient in high-traffic zones, easy to clean
Specifying & Install Considerations
- Project sizing: Choose baffle widths, depths, lengths, spacing and layout based on acoustic modelling and design intent.
- Finishes & coatings: Standard RAL powder coat, timber-effect sublimation, or anodised aluminium.
- Service integration: Coordinate with lighting, fire, mechanical – carrier systems support this.
- Access & maintenance: Systems support demountable profiles, access panels, and full plenum visibility
- Compliance: Progressive Materials offers specification support verifying SAS ceilings meet acoustic and fire performance under AS ISO 9705 and fire safety codes
Acoustic baffle ceilings, especially those from SAS International and supplied by Progressive Materials offer specifiers a seamless blend of acoustic performance, architectural sophistication, service integration, and durability. From linear modules (SAS 500) to sculptural waveforms (SAS 510) and customisable linear systems (SAS 740), each solution empowers professionals to design ceilings that meet rigorous performance criteria while delivering engaging spatial experiences.
For detailed drawings, NRC data, spec sheets or assistance integrating a baffle ceiling into your project, contact Progressive Materials’ technical consultants. We partner closely with SAS International to ensure your ceiling system meets performance, compliance, and design objectives.
