3 December 2003 -- The noise protection skills of Faist Anlagenbau GmbH are to be utilised on the PrintCity Web Factory project at drupa 2004. In addition, Faist has become a full member of the strategic alliance of best-in-class suppliers, and will work with PrintCity’s Web Systems Activity Group on an ongoing basis. For the drupa project, Faist is designing a unique sound proofing device around the integrated folding system of a high-end MAN Roland heatset press in the Web Factory. This is traditionally one of the noisiest areas in what promises to be an exceedingly noisy and active exhibition environment, and Faist’s sound proofing panels will reduce the noise from the folder by around 25 decibels. Faist offers a range of modular sound proofing solutions that can be adapted for a large number of individually specified needs in the printing industry. Noise levels are subject to European Community directives for employee working conditions, and a maximum level of 83 A-weighted decibels (referred to as dB(A) – A-weighted means the decibel value in relation to the sensitivity of human hearing) is allowed in the printing industry. The effect of the noise reduction panel on the Web Factory at drupa 2004 will be to bring the level down from about 100 dB(A) to 75dB(A). Larry Lampert, Chairman of PrintCity’s Web Systems Activity Group, said: “Health and safety and environmental issues are of major importance in today’s printing industry, and PrintCity is committed to showing solutions for this side to the business. The contribution of Faist is a major aspect of this commitment.” The panels are generally constructed from two sheets of metal, one of which is perforated, with a 60 to 100mm-thick mineral fibre lining in between. The panels can also be partly glazed to allow a view of the equipment and easy communication among service personnel. In order to create a pleasing visual appearance of the sound enclosure, the panels can be coated in various colours and surface structures. As well as the increased public impact of appearing on the biggest industry stage at drupa 2004, Faist expects to derive other benefits from its membership of PrintCity. “It’s very important to have powerful partners,” says Wilhelm Braun, Managing Director of Faist Group, “and this group of companies in PrintCity can really achieve things and become stronger.” “We are the leading manufacturer of sound proofing concepts in the printing industry worldwide, and it is the perfect situation for Faist to keep the company of such highly competent partners. We believe PrintCity raises the value of each member company, and there are great synergies to be found in its work.”