REDUCING NOISE FROM LIGHT RAIL SYSTEMS

A survey by DGMR Consulting Engineers in The Hague identified sources of noise from light rail systems. The main source was from the interactions between the wheel and rail: rolling noise, impulse noise and curve squeal noise. The noise from electrical machinery was minor. Reducing the roughness between the wheel and rail was recommended. The Parsons Brinkerhoff consultancy was awarded a contract to research best practice from light rail systems to produce a guide for designers of new light rail systems. Three types of track were identified: embedded track on street-running sections, direct fixation (or slab track where the track is embedded in concrete) and conventional ballasted track. The noise associated with rail corrugation is discussed. Solutions to noise generation include polymer precoated rail systems from ALH Rail Coatings Ltd. and the Silent Track noise reduction rail system from Corus. Acoustic barriers can also be erected between the track and adjacent buildings.