Assessment and prediction of structure-borne rail noise in domestic dwellings

The aim of this paper is to provide findings based on a study on the existing structure-borne rail noise levels in order to facilitate the decision making on any future expansions in Sydney. The study focuses on prediction of structure-borne noise levels using an algorithm which takes into account the geology, the vibration transfer coupling between the ground and a typical dwelling, the efficiency of the floor to re-radiate the vibration and typical acoustic properties of a dwelling. With the experimentation conducted in various locations around Sydney, a consensus was drawn on the noise and vibration assessment according to the geology of the region. The predicted structure-borne rail noise is to be juxtaposed with the measured data to suit the conditions in the areas concerned.