Vibration Reduction Retrofit Solution for a Wuxi Metro Line
Project Background: Vibration and Noise Challenge
After the opening of a Wuxi metro line, significant wheel-rail force transmission led to excessive surface vibration and structural noise. Nearby residential buildings were severely affected by train passage, resulting in poor living conditions and continuous complaints from residents. The vibration reduction measures in the residential sections were insufficient to meet environmental vibration and noise control requirements.
Vibration Reduction Solution Design
Our company designed a vibration reduction solution for this project:
The existing standard fasteners in the section were removed and replaced with medium vibration reduction fasteners, with optimized vertical stiffness to weaken wheel-rail vibration transmission. Additionally, broadband rail dampers were installed on the rail web to dissipate high-frequency vibration energy and suppress wheel-rail friction noise, achieving broadband vibration and noise reduction.
Turnout Area Enhancement
In the turnout area, where forces are complex and impact vibrations are high, all original fasteners were replaced with turnout-specific vibration reduction fasteners to enhance cushioning capacity, reduce train-induced impact vibrations, and improve structural stability.
Technical Solution Features
• No civil works required – direct in-situ replacement, short construction period, controllable costs
• Fully interchangeable – fasteners match original interfaces, track geometry unchanged
• Dual vibration reduction system – addresses both low-frequency vibration and high-frequency noise
• Simple maintenance – standardized components, easy assembly and disassembly
Retrofit Results & Effectiveness
After the retrofit, comparative testing under identical conditions showed a comprehensive vibration and noise reduction of over 8 dB, significantly exceeding the owner's design requirements.
Post-retrofit track operation has been stable, with vibration and noise indicators meeting regulatory standards. No further complaints have been received from nearby residents.
The metro-induced disturbance issue has been fully resolved, improving the living environment along the line.