Flanging, squeal and corrugation-induced noise: Insights from recent measurement campaigns at interconnected tight curves

Abstract

High noise events at tight curves often comprise of squeal, flanging and corrugation-induced noise. All noise types have the potential to cause annoyance at sensitive receivers in close proximity to the rail line. The presence of squeal, flanging and other high noise events at three interconnected sharp passenger curves on the metropolitan network in Sydney, New South Wales is investigated in the context of measured parameters. Rail and noise parameters were measured at ten locations in 2021, with a repeat of the measurements undertaken at three locations in 2022. Differences in high noise events were analysed and quantified to understand the underlying causes of curving noise in this area. The role of the wheel-rail interface contact conditions, train type, rail roughness, friction and speed is investigated to provide insights into the mechanisms leading to curving noise events at this site.