Reduction of train induced ground vibration by vehicle design

Abstract

The influence of vehicle design, wheel out-of-roundness (OOR), track irregularity and properties of the layered ground on the generation of train induced ground-borne vibration is investigated through simulations with the TRAFFIC software. By mitigating severe forms of OOR, such as high levels of eccentricity (order 1) and higher orders of wheel polygonalisation, there is a potential of reducing the vibration level in the ground with up to 15 dB in particular 1/3-octave frequency bands and around 5 dB on the overall level. A similar overall reduction is achievable by reducing the unsprung mass whereas the primary suspension stiffness is of minor influence. The performance of the vehicle in terms of induced vibration levels is strongly dependent on the status of the track as defined by track irregularity level and dynamic properties of the ground. The current study was carried out within the 7th framework research project RIVAS (Railway Induced Vibration Abatement Solutions).