Model fitting for ground borne vibration transmission

This paper presents the methodology followed for calibrating numerical models used for predicting ground borne vibration originated by underground rail traffic in Bilbao. The methodology followed for predicting vibration levels makes use of two different finite element (FE) models. One represents the track structure including the ballast. The second models vibration transmission through the ground. These models provide the information (transfer functions) needed for estimating vibration levels originated by a given train. The considered underground line will replace another one which is only partially buried. Measures in the existing line have allowed calibrating the models used in prediction. These measures have also allowed the identification of a set of sample trains that have later been used for modeling the vibrating source.