Simulation and experimental study on vibration and acoustic characteristics of a continuous supported embedded track

Abstract

With urban rail transit developing fast, there is an increasing demand for riding comfort and reduction of vibration and noise. Metro being the main public transportation facility of urban rail transit in China, faces more severe challenges. Metro tracks use a range of different vibration isolating ballasted track structures. Environmental vibration along metro lines is controlled by using so-called vibration isolating track structures. In doing so, many problems arise in the train-track system of metro lines, such as strong vibration and excessive wear of wheel/rail systems, causing vibration fatigue and noise. Embedded track is used as an option to reduce vibration and noise, usually applied for tramways. When applied to metro lines, embedded track faces challenge due to high speed, large axle load and more complex line conditions. When applied to metro lines, the acoustic characteristics of embedded track need to be re-evaluated. These characteristics were investigated through a combined method of simulation and experiment. In this study, the wheel and track acoustic radiation of the embedded track designed for metro is predicted firstly. Then the tests of vibration and acoustic of the embedded track are carried out to verify the accuracy of the model on the one hand, and compare with the common fastener track to obtain more aspects of vibration and noise on the other hand. This study can provide a basis for the application of embedded track in metro systems.