Simulation of track–ground vibrations due to a high-speed train: the case of X-2000 at Ledsgard

Abstract

This paper attempts to demonstrate an application of the author's simulation model for predicting the train-track and nearby ground-borne vibrations by the Swedish high-speed train X-2000 at Ledsgard. The validation of the computation results are tested against the available field measurement data at the site. In this way, the theoretical prediction of the model can be verified whilst also providing a clear-cut explanation of the observed data. The findings are stated as follows: The train-induced vibrations at the track differ significantly depending on train geometry and speed. At low speeds the response is quasi-static so that the track response due to train axle loads appears mostly downward at the point of their action. On the other hand, at high speeds the train-induced response becomes dynamic due to the inertia generated in the track–ground system, so that the track vibrations appear evenly in both upward and downward directions. As the results of the soft soil deposits at Ledsgard, the high train speed is almost in the trans-Rayleigh wave state so that a large amplified track response appeared due to the resonance between the track behavior and the Rayleigh wave propagation in the ground. This is explained by the frequency–wavenumber spectrum. To provide useful engineering information relating to vibration mitigation at the train track and nearby ground, a preliminary investigation was carried out by simulating the effect of constructing of a wave impeding barrier (WIB) at the site. The aforementioned frequency–wavenumber spectrum showed that the stiffening effects by the WIB installation into soft layers led a shift of response from a large dynamic one at high train speeds to a small, quasi-static one.