The present study investigates the effects of design changes on high-speed train noise in railway stations. Noise barriers alongside the tracks and various absorptive materials applied to interior station surfaces are considered. TGV noise level data was used to predict the sound power levels of the high-speed trains. Computer simulations were used to predict noise levels on platforms during a high-speed train pass, and the expected noise reductions for various interior absorptive materials. It was found that a minimum barrier height of 1.8m, which is equivalent to the height from the rail floor to the bottom of the cabin window, is required to prevent noise diffraction. It was also found that any structures over the tracks could increase the noise levels up to 2.5dB in the platform area. The main station ceiling is the most effective area to control reverberation and improve the clarity of sound from broadcast systems.

Case study: Predicted effect of station design changes on high speed train noise

In the present study, room acoustic environments in high-speed trains were investigated to identify design elements for passenger cars. Absorption coefficients of the interior finish materials were tested, and reverberation time (RT) and sound pressure level (SPL) were measured at the ear height of passengers. A room acoustic simulation model for the passenger cars was constructed from actual measurements carried out at different positions in the passenger cars. Design elements were identified and classified through computer modelling of different interior surfaces with different absorption coefficients. It was found that appropriate absorptive material and ceiling shape help improve speech privacy inside passenger cars. The privacy distance (rP) improved by 2.7 m by increasing the absorption coefficients and by 1.8 m by adding ceiling banners.

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Monique Vernet

Papers

Noisiness of high speed trains