Assessment of High-Speed Train-Induced Vibrations Using Efficient Numerical Models

Abstract

The fast expansion of high-speed railways (HSR) during the last decades can be attributed to their advantages (e.g., financial, technical, and environmental) compared to other transportations means. In recent years, many engineers in the fields of aerodynamics and motor technology investigate the creation of high-speed trains (HST) capable of developing operational speeds over 400 km/h. The most important negative impact of HST is the induced ground vibrations. These train-induced vibrations may have a significant negative impact, not only to the passengers, the trains, and the HSR infrastructure (embankments, bridges, structures), but also to adjacent buildings and other structures (discomfort of the population and even structural damages). Several engineers and researchers have tried to reduce the vibrations generated by HST, improving passengers’ comfort. Based on the gained experience, one of the aims of the current study is to develop realistic three-dimensional (3D) numerical models and to investigate the application of a cost-efficient and easy to use lightweight material, such as the expanded polystyrene (EPS), in railway embankments serving as an efficient “barrier” against the vibrations caused by the passage of HST. Utilizing the finite element software ABAQUS, a 3D model is examined in order to predict the vibrations generated by train fast moving loads. The model was initially validated with field measurements, and then it was used to investigate the use of lightweight EPS embankment as mitigation measure against the induced ground vibrations.KeywordsHigh-speed rails (HSR)High-speed trains (HST)Train-induced vibrationsMitigation measuresExpanded polysterene (EPS)