Investigating the impact of tunnel geometry on ground-borne noise and vibration from underground railways

Abstract

Existing methodologies offer a robust basis for predicting ground-borne noise and vibration effects arising from typical railway tunnel structures constructed using tunnel boring machines. However, the literature offers less clarity on how variations in tunnel geometry—such as those found in mined sections or crossover caverns—may influence these vibration levels. This paper addresses this knowledge gap, employing finite element modeling to conduct a comprehensive parametric study of variations in tunnel geometry. The research objective is to discern the influence these deviations from standard tunnel cross sections have on predictions of ground-borne noise and vibration. The results from this investigation offer valuable insights, challenging the notion that existing methodologies can be universally applied across all tunnel configurations. Our findings underscore the critical role that nuanced tunnel geometries play in shaping ground-borne noise and vibration profiles, emphasizing the need for more granular predictive models that consider these variations. This study is poised to significantly contribute to the understanding and prediction of ground-borne noise and vibration in railway systems, facilitating improved tunnel design, minimizing potential disturbances, and enhancing overall system performance.