Tip #1 – Understand that privacy curtains have to “fit” the space and the purpose you’re buying them for.
Privacy curtain track should be selected based on the functionality needs of the application. There are several factors to consider, including:
- Weight-bearing
- Acoustics
- Attachable accessories, such as IV holders
- Budget
To make it easier to compare, we've created a Privacy Curtain Track Selection Guide covering the 5 track types Inpro offers – see the last page of this Briefing.
Tip #2 – Selecting your track type
Privacy curtain track should be selected based on the functionality needs of the application. There are several factors to consider, including:
- Weight-bearing
- Acoustics
- Attachable accessories, such as IV holders
- Budget
To make it easier to compare, we've created a Privacy Curtain Track Selection Guide covering the 5 track types Inpro offers – see the last page of this Briefing.
Tip #3 – Some track materials are quieter than others
The following graph shows the decibel reduction coming from PVC and ABS-coated tracks. Choosing the quieter track can help patients get better rest, which speeds healing.
Tip #4 – Calculating carrier counts
Most of the time, carrier counts will depend on the width of the curtain, the length of the track, and/or the weight of the fabric. Here is a "rule of thumb" for a quick calculation:
If Track Length is known:
(Total track length in feet * 2.2 ) + 1 per location=Total recommended Carriers
Example: To Calculate carrier quantity for 9' track, (9' * 2.2)=19.8+1=20.8, round up to 21 carriers
If Curtain Width is known:
(Curtain width in inches ÷ 6) + 1= Number of carriers
Example: To Calculate carrier quantity for 120" wide curtain, (120" ÷ 6)=20+1= 21 carriers
To make it simple, your Inpro rep knows how many carriers you will need and can advise you when placing your order.
A common question we get asked: How much weight can the carriers hold?
Weight-bearing of carriers is referred to as break strength, and it varies depending on the track and carrier style. Break strength test data for carrier loads and grid clip loads are available on our website [link].
Inpro also has Pop-out Carriers for Ultra Cube and Optitrac designed for ligature resistance* in behavioral health settings. The carrier is designed to "pop out" when a downward force of >10 lbs. is applied.
*While this product is designed for behavioral health applications, it does not guarantee patient safety.
Tip #5 – Go with the spool carrier
Here are the two most-common carriers:
- Spool Carrier
- Drop Chain
The ball-and-drop chain carrier is the bargain option and is included in most generic track specifications as the basic option.
Our recommendation is to go with the Spool Carrier – they are a nominal cost upgrade and generally provide a higher level of performance for the smooth operation of the carriers in the track.
BONUS TIP!
Formatrac® Bendable Track offers superior acoustic performance and the greatest design flexibility
The ABS-covered track cited on p. 2 is Inpro's Formatrac® Bendable Track, which produces less sound than other traditional privacy curtain track products.
There's even more benefit in selecting Formatrac - it can be bent in the field to fit any type of room or curtain configuration. That's because the ABS cover is wrapped around a flexible, yet incredibly strong aluminum core. The track comes rolled in easy-to-carry cartons and is marked for easy field cutting.