THE MEASUREMENT OF TRAIN NOISE: A CASE STUDY IN NORTHERN ITALY

C Pronello

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

2003

Subject Area

policy - environment, organisation - structures, mode - rail

Keywords

Vercelli (Italy), Variables, Trains, Structures, Speed, Sound level, Railroad trains, Rail transit, Noise pollution, Noise parameters, Noise, Environment, Electric trains, Diesel locomotives, Deceleration, Databases, Case studies, Buildings, Acceleration (Mechanics)

Abstract

This study examines noises produced by rail traffic, and investigates the effects of the transit of trains on a number of variables, including the noise source as well as the surrounding environment. Variables having a significant influence on sound levels are identified, a standard procedure for measuring noise is defined and a database is developed for setting up and calibrating train noise models. A pilot study looks at two railway lines passing through Vercelli, Italy. One important finding is that variables that normally influence noise production can be disregarded in certain circumstances. For example, when surrounding environmental conditions are constant, the train type does not cause a significant variation in the noise level. Findings also indicate that when diesel trains are traveling at less than 70 km/h, a speed change of 30-40 km/h significantly affects the maximum noise level (Lmax). However, for electrified lines, when speed is below 80 km/h, a change of 20-30 km/h does not cause significant variations in Lmax. For diesel trains traveling low speeds, noise emissions are strongly affected by acceleration/deceleration. Finally, it is shown that the site configuration and positioning of buildings are highly significant with respect to Lmax, with the presence of high buildings along a railway line significantly increasing noise levels.

Comments

Transportation Research Part D Home Page: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/13619209

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS