Train–track–bridge modelling and review of parameters

Abstract

This study gathers all necessary information to construct a model to calculate the coupled dynamic response of train–track–bridge systems. Each component of the model is presented in detail together with a review of possible sources for the parameter values, including a collection of vehicle models, a variety of track configurations and general railway bridge properties. Descriptions of the most important track irregularity representations are also included. The presented model is implemented in MATLAB and validated against a commercially available finite element package for a range of speeds, paying particular attention to a resonant speed. Finally, the potential of the described model is illustrated with two numerical studies that address interesting aspects of train and bridge dynamic responses. In particular, the effect of the presence of a vehicle on the bridge’s fundamental frequency is studied, as well as the influence of the wavelength of the rail irregularities on the dynamic effects of the bridge and the vehicle.