Operable Partition FAQs
Straight answers about operable partitions — acoustics, sizes, warranties, service, and how to specify. Can't find yours? Ask us directly.
What is an operable partition?
An operable partition (also called a movable wall or folding wall) is a series of large panels that move along an overhead track to divide one room into several smaller rooms — and stack away when you want the space open again. Advanced Equipment has designed, manufactured, and installed them since 1957.
Is an airwall the same as an operable partition?
Yes. "Airwall" is the everyday facilities term for the same product — you'll also hear movable wall, folding wall, accordion wall, room divider, or operable wall. In construction specifications they all live under CSI MasterFormat Division 10 22 26, Operable Partitions. Advanced Equipment manufactures them and services airwalls from all manufacturers.
How much sound do operable partitions block?
Our ALPHA® all-steel panels carry laboratory sound ratings up to STC 54, with field-tested performance of NIC 42 under ASTM E 336, and acoustically absorptive faces to NRC 0.65 are available. We guarantee field sound ratings on our large operable walls — sound test reports are downloadable in our document library.
How tall and wide can panels be?
One-piece panels to 60 feet high and 60 inches wide — the reach that convention centers and exhibition halls require.
What warranty comes with the panels?
ALPHA® series all-welded steel panels carry a 10 or 20 year limited panel warranty, depending on configuration.
Can an operable wall follow a curve?
Yes — Advanced Equipment is the only manufacturer with true curved track and curved steel panels, letting the wall follow the architecture instead of forcing straight runs.
Do operable partitions qualify for LEED credits?
ALPHA and SIGMA all-steel panels are built without gypsumboard and qualify for LEED Credit MR 4.1 and MR 4.2.
Can you repair or service another manufacturer's partition?
Yes. We repair, retrofit, replace, and refurbish operable partitions from all manufacturers — not just our own systems.
What is Spacematic®?
Spacematic® is our space automation system: it automatically sets up large exhibit halls and event spaces, cutting the time and labor of dividing very large rooms.
How do I specify Advanced Equipment partitions for my project?
Three ways: build a complete project-specific specification in six steps with our DWspec® tool; download technical documents, sound tests, and finish data from the document library; or pull Division 10 22 26 manufacturer specifications from our ARCAT listing.
Who do I contact for a quote?
Use the Get a Quote form to send drawings and project details, call 714-635-5350, or email sales@aecorp.net. We design, manufacture, and install — one company, start to finish.
Still have a question?
Talk to the people who actually build the walls — family owned and operated in Fullerton, California since 1957.