Prediction Method of Ground Vibration Caused by High-Speed Railway Based on the Formula from the Federal Transportation Administration

Abstract

To predict the environmental vibration caused by high-speed railways, a prediction method combining actual measurement and simulation is proposed based on the vibration prediction formula proposed by Federal Transportation Administration (FTA). On a subgrade section of the Nanchang-Jiujiang Intercity Railway in China, the ground vibration acceleration level and the line source transfer mobility of the soil layer were measured using the field vibration test and the hammer test. Second, the force density function of the moving train is determined by applying the prediction formula inversely. In conjunction with the line source transfer mobility calculated by the finite element simulation, the ground vibration caused by the high-speed train operating in the subgrade section is finally predicted. The results indicate: This method’s prediction result is nearly identical to the variation law of the measured vibration acceleration level curve, and the vibration acceleration level of each center frequency in the frequency range above 5 Hz is essentially identical; the error between the result of the weighted vibration acceleration level and the measured value is only 1.1% at 10 m (71.84 dB and 72.64 dB, respectively). The predicted and measured results of the Z vibration level at 30 m are 66.02 dB and 68.94 dB, with an error of 4.23%. It can be seen that the prediction accuracy of this method is reasonably good. Environmental vibration and noise caused by high-speed railways has become a new environmental problem, with the rapid development of high-speed railways. Accurately predicting the environmental vibration caused by trains is crucial for effective railway vibration reduction and noise control. The combination of combining field test and numerical simulation is proposed based on the vibration prediction formula offers a method with high prediction accuracy and ease of implementation, which can enhance the prediction of the environmental vibration impact caused by high-speed railways or rail transit. In future research, the findings of this study have significant engineering application value for environmental assessment. The prediction method can also aid in optimizing vehicle grouping, speed, and track selection, serving design and implementation. Furthermore, it can be utilized to predict the distribution and intensity of urban traffic environmental vibration, guiding urban planning and traffic management. In the design and construction process of buildings, the environmental vibration prediction method can be employed to predict building vibration, ensuring the structural safety and stability of buildings.