536 - An experimental investigation into the influence of track crossovers on tram-generated ground-borne vibration and re-radiated noise
Talbot J.
Abstract
The operation of tramways close to sensitive buildings can lead to concerns over ground-borne vibration and re-radiated noise. Vibration generated at the wheel-rail interface propagates through the track structure, through the ground and into buildings, where it may cause disturbance as perceptible vibration and/or re-radiated noise. There are primarily two potential sources of vibration: the inherent roughness of the wheels and rails; and discontinuities in the rails, such as those found at track crossovers. This paper presents an experimental investigation into the source of re-radiated noise within a UK concert hall. The hall in question is situated alongside a tramway that includes a crossover between two rail tracks. A particular objective of this investigation was to establish the relative significance of the impulsive vibration generated at the rail breaks of the crossover compared with the essentially continuous vibration due to wheel/rail roughness. The paper includes a description of the method used to make simultaneous noise and vibration measurements, together with the necessary data processing and a discussion of the results. It is concluded that, while plain line track may be acceptable in a given location, the presence of a crossover can lead to significantly higher levels of noise and vibration. Special consideration should therefore be given to the location and vibration isolation of crossovers in an urban environment.
Citation
Talbot J.: An experimental investigation into the influence of track crossovers on tram-generated ground-borne vibration and re-radiated noise, CD-ROM Proceedings of the Thirtheenth International Congress on Sound and Vibration (ICSV13), July 2-6, 2006, Vienna, Austria, Eds.: Eberhardsteiner, J.; Mang, H.A.; Waubke, H., Publisher: Vienna University of Technology, Austria, ISBN: 3-9501554-5-7
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