Pelzer Consult has its own solution to cabin noise in the form of new “closed sandwich” trim tab technology. Conventional trim panels, said the Swiss acoustic products supplier, create an undesired loudspeaker effect. According to Hans-Peter Keller, research and development manager, “For our panels, we use acoustically open covering layers [which] allows the sound to pass and to be better absorbed.” In addition, a decoupled sealing film prevents airborne noise from making it through Pelzer’s open honeycomb from the outer wall of the aircraft into the interior. Keller also noted that its panels are similar in weight to the current trim-tab technology, and that thermoplastic, 100-percent recyclable 3-D supporting material has reduced production time considerably. Pelzer is an Aircraft Composites Consortium company.