Controlling noise by wheel and track design Available to Purchase

Rolling noise forms the main source of noise from railways. Effective control at source requires a good understanding of the mechanisms of generation. To this end, detailed theoretical models for rolling noise have been developed. Using these methods, it is possible to evaluate the rolling noise behaviour of different wheel and track designs, allowing new designs to be derived that are inherently quieter. In this paper, an overview is given of the mechanisms involved in noise generation and the parameters that have most influence are identified. Examples are then given of two techniques that have been developed using the model with the aim of reducing the noise at source. A tuned absorber system applied to the rail is found in field measurements to reduce the noise from the track by about 6 dB(A). The wheel component of noise can be reduced by an optimised wheel shape in combination with damping treatments.