Resumen
QuieterRail aims to introduce a step change in predicting and mapping railway noise and vibration,
in the acceptance testing of rolling stock, and in promoting cost-effective noise mitigation. The
established TWINS-based approach for rolling noise is extended to include curves. Squeal noise
models are developed including flanging noise and multiple wheel-rail contact points. Proposals are
made for improving the CNOSSOS curve noise factor based on project results. To add flexibility to
acceptance testing, transposition methods are developed and tested for situations where there are
larger differences, e.g. between slab and ballast track. Measurement uncertainty in pass-by noise
is studied, including the effects of site geometry. A virtual test method for the noise from
freight wagons is proposed and information is gathered on the noise from trains with new propulsion
technology. QuieterRail produces guidelines and a data analysis tool for cost-effective noise
mitigation by controlling rail roughness using on-board measurement systems. It also provides an
open-source tool for whole track system optimisation, addressing life cycle costs, noise, and
vibration simultaneously. The goal is to enhance the cost- effectiveness and social benefits of
railway infrastructure by reducing externalities. A fast-running hybrid vibration prediction method
will be enhanced to include features pertinent to urban situations. It will be implemented in a
GIS-based environment to allow mapping of vibration alongside noise. The database with soil
impedance and transfer functions and building correction factors will be substantially extended. A
track-independent vehicle indicator is developed to allow a first step towards quantifying the
vibration emission of trains and the introduction of vibration limit values. Extensive noise and
vibration measurements at a mainline site and on an urban light rail network provide for validation
of the results and expansion of relevant databases.