ÅF initiates a new research project for Trafikverket

ÅF initiates a new research project for Trafikverket

ÅF initiates a new research project for Trafikverket

Ground-borne noise is caused by vibration from a source, such as trains in a tunnel, which is distributed through the ground to surrounding constructions and buildings. The vibration is then converted into audible noise that has a negative impact on people, similar to airborne noise. Currently there are no national guidelines for ground-borne noise in Sweden, which results in project specific guideline values.

A number of more or less proven assessment methods exits. Most often, these calculation methods have built-in safety margins that must ensure that the criteria is achieved. Refurbishment of buildings that do not meet the noise requirement, is very expensive. Therefore, the safety margins are often extensive.

In 2018, ÅF Sound & Vibration initiated a reserach project to Trafikverket (the Swedish Transport Administration), with the aim of creating a national assessment model for ground-borne noise. In order for Trafikverket to finance such a project, the application needed to come from an educational institution. Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg was contacted as a partner, and the research project is now approved.

Acoustic consultant, Johan Scheuer, is pleased with the approval of the research project. "We have extensive experience in ground-borne noise assessments at ÅF - from tunnels in Stockholm, Malmö and Gothenburg. As more railway traffic will be underground, there is a great need for a national guideline", he explains.

ÅF Sound & Vibration will provide data from 15 assessments to Trafikverket as basis for the research project.

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