SOLUTIONS FOR ACOUSTICAL PROBLEMS WITH BALLASTLESS TRACK

Ballastless track has higher sound emissions compared to ballasted track due to the reduced connecting impedance for the rail, the reduced vibration decay rates along the rail and the reduced absorption. A study using a simulation tool for the prediction of sound for trains led to a proposal for an acoustical innovative ballastless track design (AIFF). This concept introduces a damped and booted sleeper. A prototype sleeper has been developed. Results from laboratory experiments on a single sleeper and on a short-track section consisting of 10 sleepers showed promising results.