On the Prediction of Track Decay Rates using Finite Element Models
Regular paper
Vibratec
Wednesday 3 june, 2015, 10:40 - 11:00
0.1 London (90)
Abstract:
Rolling noise can in many cases be predicted with good confidence using analytical models such as TWINS. The most widely used rail model in TWINS is the rodel model consisting of a Timoshenko beam on a double elastic foundation. This model cannot reproduce effects coming from the periodic support of the rail or deformation of the rail cross section. However, measured track decay rates are used when available in order to improve the reliability of TWINS predictions. Such ‘tuned’ TWINS models are then used for example to assess the relative contribution of vehicle and track for an existing infrastructure.
The present paper shows how Finite Element Modelling can be used to predict track decay rates. Such predictions permit to improve the noise predictions for new track designs. In addition they can be used to evaluate the coupling between vertical and lateral rail vibration. This is normally accounted, in TWINS like models, in an empirical way which can be tuned with the results of the more accurate FE modelling. Computation results are compared to measurements performed on the ISVR test track and good agreement is found.