Efficiency of trenches along railways for trains moving at sub- or supersonic speeds

A full 3D analytical approach is adopted to account for trenches on one or both sides close to a railroad. Low-frequency ground vibrations are investigated due to the passing of trains, and open trenches are used as wave barriers. The modelling technique is based on Fourier transforms and Fourier series. The ground is modelled as a layered semi-infinite domain and the embankment with finite layers. The trenches are obtained by simulating the upper surface layer with two or three finite rectangular regions with appropriate widths. A particular boundary condition is adopted at the vertical sides of all finite regions to enable the solution procedure. Rails and sleepers are accounted for with Euler–Bernoulli beams and an anisotropic Kirchhoff plate with transversal isotropy. The wheel loads from the boogie wheel pairs of the train are simulated as moving forces. Hence, no irregularities in rails or wheels are accounted for.