A time domain analysis of train induced vibrations

Abstract

This paper is intended to show the robustness and capabilities of a coupled Boundary Element-Finite Element technique for the analysis of vibrations generated by high-speed trains under different geometrical, mechanical and operation conditions. The approach has been developed by the authors and some results have already been presented. Nevertheless, a more comprehensive study is presented in this paper to show the relevance and robustness of the method which is able to predict vibrations due to train passage at the vehicle, the track, the free-field and any structure close to the track. Local soil discontinuities, underground constructions such as underpasses, and coupling with nearby structures that break the uniformity of the geometry along the track line can be represented by the model. Non-linear behaviour of the structures can be also considered. Results concerning the excitation mechanisms, track behaviour and sub-Rayleigh and super-Rayleigh train speed are summarized in this work.