Influence of train dynamic modelling strategy on the prediction of track–ground vibrations induced by railway traffic

Abstract

This paper presents a study developed in order to identify the influence and relevance of the mechanical properties of the train in the prediction of vibrations induced by passenger railway traffic. Based on experimental data and numerical simulation, a discussion about the influence of the modelling strategy adopted for the train simulation is performed. Special emphasis is placed on the study of the influence of the unsprung and semi-sprung masses of the train on the train–track interaction mechanism. From the developed study it was found that the modelling strategy adopted for the train simulation is a key factor in the prediction of the free-field vibrations. Moreover, the accuracy of the prediction is considerably increased if the train simulation considers the unsprung and semi-sprung (bogies) masses of the train.